HammockTalk - Quarterly Newsletter Summer 2013 | Page 15

We all look for professional advice when it comes to building a home or diagnosing an illness. But according to research, between 60 and 80 per cent of Australians have never used a financial planner.* Many people don't seek financial advice because they're embarrassed about their financial situation, they don't have enough money to invest or they think it's only relevant for retirement planning. Everyone can benefit from visiting a financial planner whether they're young or old, high or low income, single or married. Financial advice can help people save money, protect their loved ones and build wealth for the future. Five myths and facts about financial advice: Myth: I don't have enough money to invest Fact: You don't need a large lump sum to invest or a high disposable income Everyone, regardless of their income or how much savings they have, can benefit from visiting a financial planner. You don't need to be a high net worth individual to reap the rewards of advice. Financial planners can help with everything from budgeting and debt management, through to superannuation and retirement planning. Myth: It's only for people who are close to retirement Fact: It's never too early to seek advice Many people don't think it's necessary to visit a financial planner until they're approaching retirement. While it's never too late to seek advice, it's also never too early. Young people who are just starting their working life can benefit greatly from financial advice. People who establish good money habits early on are less likely to develop financial pr