anningham The
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CONTRIBUTORS
About the Find Manningham
By Warren Strybosch
The Find Manningham is a community paper that aims to support all things Manningham. We want to provide a place where all Not-For-Profits (NFP), schools, sporting groups and other like organisations can share their news in one place. For instance, submitting up-andcoming events in the Find Manningham for Free.
We do not proclaim to be another newspaper and we will not be aiming to compete with other news outlets. You can obtain your news from other sources. We feel you get enough of this already. We will keep our news topics to a minimum and only provide what we feel is most relevant topics to you each month.
We invite local council and the current council members to participate by submitting information each month so as to keep us informed of any changes that may be of relevance to us, their local constituents.
EDITORIAL ENQUIRES: Warren Strybosch | 1300 88 38 30 warren@findnetwork.com.au
PUBLISHER: Issuu Pty Ltd
We will also try and showcase different organisations throughout the year so you, the reader, can learn more about what is on offer in your local area.
To help support the paper, we invite local business owners to sponsor the paper and in return we will provide exclusive advertising and opportunities to submit articles about their businesses. As a community we encourage you to support these businesses/columnists. Without their support, we would not be able to provide this community paper to you.
Lastly, we want to ask you, the local community, to support the fundraising initiatives that we will be developing
The
and rolling out over the coming years. Our aim is to help as many NFP and other like organisations to raise much needed funds to help them to keep operating. Our fundraising initiatives will never simply ask for money from you. We will also aim to provide something of worth to you before you part with your hard-earned money. The first initiative is the Find Cards and Find Coupons – similar to the Entertainment Book but cheaper and more localised. Any NFP and similar organisations e.g., schools, sporting clubs, can participate.
Follow us on facebook (https://www. facebook.com/findmanningham) so you keep up to date with what we are doing.
We value your support,
The Find Manningham Team.
anningham
POSTAL ADDRESS: 248 Wonga Road, Warranwood VIC 3134
ADVERTISING AND ACCOUNTS: editor@findmanningham.com.au
GENERAL ENQUIRIES: 1300 88 38 30
EMAIL SPORT: sport@manningham.com.au
WEBSITE: www.findmanningham.com.au
OUR NEWSPAPER
The Find Manningham was established in 2019 and is owned by the Find Foundation, a Not-For-Profit organisation with a core focus of helping other Not-ForProfits, schools, clubs and other similar organisations in the local community - to bring everyone together in one place and to support each other. We provide the above organisations FREE advertising in the community paper to promote themselves as well as to make the community more aware of the services these organisations can offer. The Find Manningham has a strong editorial focus and is supported via local grants and financed predominantly by local business owners.
ALL THINGS MANNINGHAM
The City of Manningham is a local government area in Victoria, Australia in the north-eastern suburbs of Melbourne. Manningham had a population of approximately 125,508 as at the 2018 Report which includes 27,500 business and close to 45,355 households. The Doncaster and Templestowe Council administered the area until December 15, 1994.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The Find Manningham acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands where Manningham now stands, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation, and pays repect to their Elders - past, present and emerging - and acknowledges the important role Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people continue to play within our community.
DISCLAIMER
Readers are advised that the Find Manningham accepts no responsibility for financial, health or other claims published in advertising or in articles written in this newspaper. All comments are of a general nature and do not take into account your personal financial situation, health and/or wellbeing. We recommend you seek professional advice before acting on anything written herein.
The World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly
By Mary Barnes
The World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly transcends religious boundaries. It serves as a reminder to all cultures and communities of the importance of honoring our elders, cherishing their wisdom, and ensuring they feel valued and included. By working together, we can create a world where all generations thrive in a spirit of respect, connection, and care.
World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, a global celebration held on the fourth Sunday of July, is a beautiful reminder to honour the invaluable contributions of our elders. It's a day to cherish their wisdom, experience, and the unwavering love they bring to our lives. This year, on July 28th, 2024, let's move beyond the ordinary and create meaningful experiences that celebrate the incredible legacy of our grandparents and senior loved ones. For families with geographically distant grandparents, technology offers a bridge to connect. Schedule a video call filled with games, stories, or simply a heartfelt chat to catch up. Encourage them to share their experiences, ask questions about their lives, and create new memories virtually.
Within families, the power of storytelling can be a beautiful way to celebrate. Encourage your elders to share tales from their youth, their life lessons learned along the way, and their experiences that have shaped them. These stories offer a window into the past, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for their journey. Consider creating a legacy project by recording their stories for future generations.
Unleash your creativity and embark on a craft project together. Design a family tree, decorate picture frames with photos and mementos, or create a memory box filled with keepsakes. This could be a collaborative effort, allowing younger generations to learn about family history while creating something special with their elders. For a personal touch, write heartfelt poems or messages expressing your love and appreciation. Skip the generic store-bought items and opt for a homemade gift that speaks volumes. It could be a hand-painted card with a sincere message, a photo album filled with cherished memories, or a coupon book for things like massages, baking sessions, or movie nights in. These personalised presents demonstrate the effort and thought put into celebrating their presence in your life.
Looking beyond the family unit, consider volunteering your time at a senior center. Many elderly individuals may not have regular contact with family, and your presence can make a significant difference. Play games, read books aloud, help with projects, or simply offer a listening ear. Your time and effort can brighten their day and offer valuable companionship.
Organise an intergenerational event to create a fun-filled day that fosters connection between different age groups. Host a potluck dinner where everyone contributes a dish, have a game night with board games or even adapted versions of classic party games to ensure inclusivity, or hold a talent show where young and old can showcase their skills. These events not only provide entertainment but also break down barriers and create a sense of community. Researching organisations working on senior rights allows you to advocate for change and improve the lives of the elderly population. You can volunteer your time, donate resources, or raise awareness about issues faced by our seniors. Even small actions can contribute to positive changes in policies and services that directly impact their well-being.
For a truly unique experience, consider a themed celebration based on your elder's interests. Choose a decade from their youth and transform your space accordingly. Decorate with posters, play music from that era, and prepare food
that was popular back then. Dress up in vintage clothing and embark on a nostalgic journey together.
Celebrate their cultural background by learning a few phrases in their native language, cooking a traditional dish together, playing music from their culture, or watching a movie set in their home country. This allows you to appreciate their heritage and gain a deeper understanding of their roots.
Turn the day into a celebration of their passion! If your grandparent loves gardening, visit a local nursery, plant flowers together, and create a beautiful space they can enjoy. For a movie buff, have a movie marathon featuring their favorite classic films or a genre they enjoy. By focusing on their hobbies and interests, you show appreciation for the things that bring them joy.
Consider creating an experience voucher box filled with coupons for activities they can enjoy throughout the year. Include vouchers for a visit to the park, a picnic lunch outdoors, a museum visit, or a movie night in. These experiences provide opportunities for them to explore their interests, socialise, and create new memories. A memory jar filled with small notes or photographs that evoke happy memories is a thoughtful gift. These can be funny anecdotes, pictures from special occasions, or simply inside jokes. Every time they revisit the jar, it will be a journey down memory lane filled with warmth and joy.
Bookkeeping - Back to basics PAYG Instalments
BOOKKEEPING
By Jodie Moore
We often get clients getting confused over PAYG Instalments and BAS payments. They receive a reminder to pay their PAYG instalment and their response is that they cancelled their GST registration last financial year so cannot understand why they are being asked to pay it now. Although PAYG instalments will often be included in your BAS, it is a very different thing. Almost everyone who receives a Tax Debt for their tax return will be put onto a PAYG instalment plan. This includes Individuals, Companies, Trusts etc.
Let me give you an example.
In your 2023 tax return, you received a tax bill of $1500. This amount is due now. If you cannot pay it upfront, you can set yourself up on a payment plan either
through MyGov or by contacting your Tax Agent or Bookkeeper.
As you had a tax bill for the 2023FY, the ATO will assume that you will also receive one in the 2024 FY. To help ease the shock and burden of receiving this tax bill and having to find the money in one go, they will automatically set you up on an instalment plan to pay it beforehand. Using the amount of your 2023FY tax bill, the ATO will divide it by four for you to pay in four quarterly instalments.
However, they also want it paid before the end of the financial year. So, if you do not complete your tax return until November for example, the first instalment will be due in the JanuaryMarch quarter, but this amount will include the July-September quarter, the October-December quarter and the January-March quarter, effectively paying three instalments in one. The final
quarter will then be reduced back down to the single quarterly amount.
Please also note, these PAYG instalments are to pre-pay your anticipated 2024FY tax debt. It is not paying off your 2023FY tax debt. This is a different amount and needs to be paid separately as highlighted above.
You do not really have a choice whether you pay these instalments or not. If you pay these instalments and then find you overpaid when you complete your next tax return, you will receive a refund. This will not automatically take you off the PAYG instalment plan though if you would have still received a tax bill without the previous excess instalments, they just might be reduced.
If you are still unsure or have a question relating to your specific situation please call us on 1300 883830.
GENERAL
INSURANCE
By Craig Anderson
Commercial Legal Protection insurance is designed to help SME businesses deal with unexpected legal issues not already covered by their other insurance policies.
Intended to complement traditional SME policies, rather than substitute core insurance cover, the policy typically provides expert legal assistance when an insured really needs it and protects them from potentially crippling costs which will have to be incurred, regardless of any fault on the client’s part.
What does a CLP (Commercial Legal Protection) Policy generally cover?
In general terms, legal expenses insurance provides advice and cover for the legal costs of pursuing or defending certain classes of legal action. It is not a substitute for General Liability, Professional Indemnity, Directors and Officers
What Is Commercial Legal Protection Cover?
Liability insurance, or Management Liability insurance, but it aims to cover legal expenses not covered by those insurances.
Legal expenses insurance complements other classes of insurance as it lowers the financial burden associated with legal disputes, and provides access to legal advice and assistance which could curb the need for full-scale litigation. Under some wordings a Dispute may be taken to mean any civil legal proceedings or action in a Court or Tribunal either commenced by the Insured or commenced against the Insured by a third party which relates to the Insured’s core business activities and which falls within one of the policy’s Heads of Cover. Heads of Cover may include: Contractual Disputes regarding Supply of Good and/or Services, Tax Audit, Statutory Licence Protection, Landlord Disputes, Restrictive Covenant Pursuit (protecting a client’s intellectual property), Third Party Damage to Goods or Premises, Debt Recovery, and Legal Advice.
I recommend any SME entering into contracts, where they are supplying goods and services, (particularly if these services involve maintaining a statutory license) give a CLP policy some serious consideration. Having seen the financial difference that a successful defence can make for a small business, I believe CLP cover is of the utmost importance.
For a “health check” of your business insurance, contact Small Business Insurance Brokers via email: sales@ smallbusinessinsurancebrokers.com.au
Any advice in this article has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of that, before acting on the above advice, you should consider its appropriateness (having regard to your objectives,needs and financial situation).
Craig Anderson
GENERAL INSURANCE
Small Business Insurance Brokers
www. heightsafetyinsurancebrokers.com.au
0418 300 096
SMSF Reporting changes – New Deadlines
ACCOUNTANT
By Warren Strybosch
The 1st of July brings with it new reporting requirements for SMSF Trustees, and it is important that Trustees understand these new requirements.
Transfer Balance Caps (TBC)
An SMSF must report events that affect a member's transfer balance account. In the past, depending on your balance, you could elect to report quarterly or annually. Now, everyone must report quarterly.
From 1 July 2023
All SMSFs will be required to report quarterly, even if the members total super balance is less than $1 million. This means you must report the event that affects the members transfer balance within 28 days after the end of the quarter in which the event occurs.
All unreported events that occurred before 30 September 2023 must be reported by 28 October 2023. This means you cannot report at the same time as your SMSF annual return (SAR) for the 2022–23 income year.
Common TBC events are:
• details of when a member starts a retirement phase income stream, including death benefit income streams – details you need to provide include
o type of income stream
o the value
o start date.
Where the death benefit income stream is paid to a reversionary beneficiary, the start date will be the date the member died, and the value will be the value of the income stream on the date of death of the member:
• details (including value) of commutations of retirement phase income streams, including commutation of a pension that occurs before it is rolled over to another fund.
Whilst these seem like a minor technical change, it could have significant practical implications for trustees, including impacting the timing of when pensions commence. Trustees will no longer be able to rely on member balances in the last set of annual financial statements as its pension commencement value or its transfer
Rather, the fund is going to have to create interim accounts to reasonably calculate or estimate the value of each of the members benefits and confirm the tax components so it can work out the value of the transfer balance account even before the commencement of the pension.
Not only will this cause some headaches for the accountant, but it will also require financial advisors to determine the value of the SMSF assets at market value prior to commencing the pension.
For those Trustees who do not use a financial advisor and their accountant is not using software where daily data feeds are flowing into the reporting software, it will be very difficult for them to obtain reasonable asset valuations for which the auditor may be satisfied with.
It is likely there will be an increased cost to SMSFs due to accountants having to create interim reports and additional valuations carried out where trustees require pensions started during the year.
Some exclusions from reporting Events an SMSF does not need to report on a transfer balance account report (TBAR) include:
• pension payments
• investment earnings and losses
• when an income stream ceases because the interest has been exhausted
• the death of a member
• information that individuals report to us directly using a Transfer balance event notification form (NAT 74919) –this includes a
º family law payment split
º debit event from fraud, dishonesty, or bankruptcy
º structured settlement contributions made before 1 July 2007
• information other funds will report to us such as a member's interest in an APRA fund.
When you need to report sooner
If a member exceeds their personal transfer balance cap, you must report the following events sooner:
• a voluntary member commutation of an income stream in response to an excess transfer balance (ETB) determination – this must be reported within 10 business days after the end of the month in which the commutation occurs
• responses to commutation authorities which must be reported within 60 days of the date the commutation authority was issued.
If an individual has exceeded their cap and we issue an excess transfer balance determination or commutation authority based on incomplete or incorrect information, you must correct the reporting as soon as possible. This enables us to revoke the determination or commutation authority.
Consequences of late reporting
We encourage members to lodge their transfer balance reporting as soon as possible to avoid adverse consequences. If an SMSF does not lodge a TBAR by the required date, the member’s transfer balance account will be adversely affected. They may need to commute more money to rectify any excess and pay more excess transfer balance tax. There may also be reverse workflow for the trustee.
If the SMSF is late reporting a commutation made after we issued an excess transfer balance determination to the member, we may send a commutation authority to their fund. This puts the member at risk of having the excess amount removed from retirement phase twice.
An SMSF may be subject to compliance action and penalties if they do not lodge on time or respond to a commissioner commutation authority. Non-compliance with a commutation authority may result in denying exempt current pension income (ECPI) claims.
Potentially the late lodgement penalty will be assessed at the rate of one penalty unit for each period of 28 days or part thereof, that the report is overdue up to a maximum of five penalty points. “The current value of a penalty point is $313 which just increased on 1 July from $275 a penalty point.”
Warren Strybosch
You can call them on 1300 88 38 30 or email info@findaccountant.com.au / www.findaccountant.com.au
Important Information
This information is of a general nature only. It does not take into account your particular financial needs, circumstances and objectives. You should obtain professional financial advice if you have not already done so before acting on this information. You should read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before making a decision to buy or sell a financial product. Any case studies,graphs or examples are for illustrative purposes only and are based on specific assumptions and calculations.Past performance is not an indication of future performance. Superannuation, tax, Centrelink and other relevant information is current as at the date of this document. This information contained does not constitute legal or tax advice.
Cosy mid-winter at Realm Library
Want to snuggle up and get cosy this Winter? Join us at Realm Library, grab a hot chocolate, and settle in for a Christmas (in July) themed movie matinee, at 1pm on Thu 18 July, or pull on your fluffy socks, grab a tasty treat, and snuggle up in a blanket, for our special Hygge bookchat, at 2pm on Wed 24 July. (FREE) Bookings required
Aboriginal Victorians: Billibellary's different courage
Wed, 24 July, 2pm-3pm, Croydon Library
Richard Broome AM, president of the Royal Historical Society of Victoria, presents the story of Billibellary, a Wurundjeri Elder of the 1830s and 1840s, and an influential and important ngurungaeta, or spokesman, for the Wurundjeri–willum people at the time of the first European settlement of Melbourne. (FREE) Bookings required
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH &
SAFETY
By Mark Felton
As a business owner and employer, it is your responsibility to ensure the health and safety of your employees within your workplace. This includes providing your team with a safe work environment and protection from hazards. You can achieve this by understanding your obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) laws and by complying with them.
WorkSafe Victoria recently reported that a Warrnambool roofing manufacturer has been convicted and fined $40,000 after a worker suffered serious injuries when they were told to bypass a machine's safeguards to clean it.
Uniroll Roofing Pty Ltd was sentenced in the Warrnambool Magistrates' Court on Thursday 16 May 2024, after pleading guilty to one charge of failing to provide or maintain a safe system of work and one charge of failing to provide employees with necessary information, instruction or training. The company was also ordered to pay $4207 in costs.
The court heard the inexperienced worker, who had only started at the company a week earlier and had not received any documented training, was tasked with operating a metal forming press, which rolled metal sheets through a series of rollers, in April 2022.
The worker noticed the rollers were depositing marks on the metal and shut the machine down to clean them. Seeing this, the company's co-owner advised there was a more effective way to clean the rollers, and showed the worker how to program the machine to bypass the interlock guarding and clean the rollers while they were still operating. Seconds later, the scouring pad the worker was using became caught in a roller and dragged his hand into the machine, crushing and degloving two of his fingers.
The worker required multiple surgeries and was not able to return to full-time duties until August 2022, when his employment was terminated.
It was reasonably practicable for Uniroll Roofing to have implemented a lock-out tag procedure requiring workers to turn the machine off and isolate power to it prior to cleaning, and to have provided adequate information, instruction and training on this procedure and the fact cleaning should only occur when the rollers were not operating.
WorkSafe Executive Director of Health and Safety Narelle Beer said WorkSafe would not hesitate to take action where employers did not put the safety of workers first. "It is incredibly alarming that this inexperienced worker was put in harm's way by someone in authority who they should have been able to rely on to keep them safe," Dr Beer said. "It is simply unacceptable to take shortcuts on safety and fail to ensure there are safe systems of work and appropriate information, instruction and training for workers to do the job safely."
WorkSafe Victoria’s tips for cleaning plant and equipment safely include:
• Undertake a risk assessment to identify any hazards and assess how to remove or control them.
• Have a documented procedure in place, including on how to power down and isolate equipment, and ensure it is available in a worker’s first language.
• •Ensure machines are powered down, fully secured and stable before cleaning begins.
• Ensure machinery is properly guarded and safety interlocks are regularly checked.
• Ensure workers are properly trained and supervised so they understand the procedure and the risks associated with the plant and equipment being cleaned.
As a business owner, are you confident that you do not have shortfalls in your
Shortcuts in safety lead to serious injury and a
$40,000 fine
efforts to keep your workers healthy and safe? Do you have an understanding of your responsibility to ensure the safety of your employees? Are you confident that you can provide a safe work environment and comply with OHS laws? Do you believe that you are effective in carrying out risk assessments, employee consultation and providing training? Do you regularly review these measures to ensure that they remain fit for purpose and keep you and your employees healthy and safe? Why not make a New Year’s resolution to get your house in order?
At Beaumont Advisory we assist business owners clarify what they currently have in place, as well as where there are shortfalls. We then assist in developing effective systems and documentation, working with businesses to ensure effective implementation. Checks are put in place to monitor ongoing effectiveness, to ensure that going forward, they are sound and comply with the Act and most importantly keep you and your employees informed, and healthy and safe. Please feel free to contact me, Mark Felton, at Beaumont Advisory on 0411 951 372 or mfelton@ beaumontlawyers.com.au for an obligation and cost-free initial discussion.
Mark Felton
Occupational Health & Safety
A new vision and purpose
DIGITAL MEDIA
By Ethan Strybosch
In a world where businesses often focus solely on profitability, we have decided to take a bold step with Elmedia Marketing towards making a meaningful impact. Having established the agency just under two years ago, we swiftly carved a niche for ourselves in the digital marketing realm. Offering website development, digital advertising, and a wholistic approach to businesses digital identity we have consistently prioritised tangible business growth. However, our recent pivot to focus on not-for-profits marks a significant evolution in our mission and vision.
From Profit to Purpose: Our Journey
Our decision to niche down into the notfor-profit sector is not merely a strategic business move but a heartfelt response to a growing desire we’ve had to create a positive social impact. We wanted to do something that mattered, that had more meaning and purpose. While we are great at making money for people, it feels more rewarding to do it for those who need it most.
This shift was inspired by our recent successes with not-for-profits. By leveraging our expertise in Google Ads, we helped a not-for-profit organisation
capitalise on an ad-spend grant. The result was an exceptionally high clickthrough and conversion rate on their ads, which translated into a significant increase in donations. This success story underscored the potential for our skills to drive substantial positive outcomes for organizations dedicated to the greater good.
Our Strategies Tailored to Not-for-Profits
Our approach to supporting not-for-profits is comprehensive and tailored to the unique challenges these organisations face. Our strategy is built on three core pillars:
1. A Comprehensive Marketing Audit: We begin by analysing the entire marketing approach of the not-forprofit. This includes a thorough audit of their digital presence to identify areas for improvement and opportunities for greater impact.
2. Affordable Full-Service Marketing: Understanding that many not-for-profits cannot afford a full-time marketing team, we step in to fill this gap. We act as an entire marketing department for a fraction of the cost, ensuring these organisations can access top-tier marketing services without breaking the bank.
3. Grant Assistance: To further support our clients, we assist in securing marketing-
based grants. These grants are crucial for reaching new audiences and spreading the word about the invaluable work these organisations do.
A Vision for a Better Tomorrow
As we embrace this new direction, we are driven by a vision of using our skills and team for the betterment of society. This pivot not only enhances the impact of the not-for-profits we work with but also gives us with a greater sense of purpose. It’s about more than just making money; it’s about making a difference.
In a world where the lines between profit and purpose often blur, we want to stand out as a beacon of hope, like a city on a hill. Our journey from focusing on business growth to championing notfor-profits is a testament to the power of aligning professional expertise with social responsibility.
MORTGAGE BROKERING
By Reece Droscher
In May, the Federal Government delivered the 2024-25 budget. It included several measures such as a $300 energy bill rebate and rent assistance aimed at easing the cost-of-living pressures on Australians. Meanwhile, with the government’s stage 3 tax cuts coming into effect from July 1, some aspiring homeowners may see their borrowing capacity grow, along with their net income.
Let’s take a look at some of the government initiatives that may help you get a leg up on the property ladder sooner rather than later.
Help to Buy Scheme funding
In the May Budget, the government allocated $5.5 billion towards its shared equity Help to Buy Scheme in 2024-25 for aspiring homebuyers on low and moderate incomes.
Under the scheme, the government will provide an equity contribution of up to 40% of the purchase price for new homes and 30% of the price of existing homes.
To be eligible, you need to:
• Be an Australian citizen and at least 18 years of age
• Earn $90,000 or less as a single or $120,000 or less as a couple
• Live in the property
• Not own any other land or property in Australia or overseas
• Have saved a deposit of at least 2 per cent and be able to finance the remainder through a participating lender
• Be able to pay for the upfront and ongoing costs
• Be buying a property that falls under the price cap for your region.
Housing Australia boost
The government increased its line of credit to Housing Australia by $3 billion, and Housing Australia’s liability cap by $2.5 billion. Housing Australia administers the Home Guarantee Scheme, which encompasses the First Home Guarantee (FHBG).
Under the FHBG (which the government has previously indicated will be available until 30 June 2025), part of an eligible home buyer’s home loan from a participating lender is guaranteed by Housing Australia.
Government Initiatives To Help Aspiring Homeowners
Homebuyers can purchase a home with as little as 5% deposit without paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance.
To apply for the FHBG, homebuyers must be:
• Applying as an individual or two joint applicants
• Australian citizens or permanent residents at the time they enter the loan
• At least 18 years of age
• Earning up to $125,000 for individuals or $200,000 for joint applicants
• Intending to live in the purchased property
• First home buyers or previous homeowners who haven’t owned or had an interest in
• a real property in Australia (this includes owning land only) in the past ten years.
Homes for Australia Plan investment
The 2024-25 Budget included $6.2 billion in new investment to build more homes across Australia. The plan is to build 1.2 million new homes over five years from mid-2024.
The government said among other initiatives, the money would go towards turbocharging construction, with a $1 billion boost for states and territories to build the roads, sewers, energy, water and
community infrastructure needed for new homes, and additional social housing. Up to $1.9 billion in concessional finance will go to community housing providers and charities to support delivery of the 40,000 social and affordable homes under the Housing Australia Future Fund and National Housing Accord.
Tax cuts
From July 1, the government’s stage 3 tax cuts come into effect. As a result of the tax cuts, some purchasers will see their borrowing capacity increase as their take home pay rises, meaning they will have more options when seeking finance for a home. For an idea of your borrowing capacity, get in touch and we’ll crunch the numbers.
Like to discuss your finance options?
If you’re planning a property purchase, let’s chat. We can run through whether you are eligible for any government incentives and explain your finance options.
Please call Reece Droscher on 0478 021 757 to book in a review and discuss your options. reece@shlfinance.com.au www.shlfinance.com.au
10 herbs that have been researched for anxiety
NATUROPATH
By Kathryn Messenger
Anxiety disorders are often felt with symptoms such as worry, reduced concentration as well as with physical symptoms like insomnia, muscle tension, or digestive upsets. Pharmaceutical medications for anxiety usually target Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, but these medications can have significant side effects. A scientific study found 10 herbs to be effective in treating anxiety by regulating GABA, and I’ll break these herbs down into different categories so that they’re easier to understand.
Just a quick warning about selfprescribing herbs at a therapeutic level. Usually, the amount you would have in a tea is a low enough dose that it is unlikely to cause any problems.
Some herbs are not meant to be taken long term, so always have your herbs checked with any medications you may be taking by a health care professional in case of interactions. If you do want to take therapeutic doses of herbs you would be best to get advice from a naturopath or herbalist, just to be sure of safety.
Anxiety with trouble sleeping
Hypnotic herbs: I know this sounds a bit weird and mystical, but it's actually just language that is not used the way
it used to be. In terms of herbs, this just means that they induce drowsiness or sleep.
These are not like drugs used for sleeping in that there is no hangover effect the next day, you would generally take these before bed, have a nice deep sleep and wake refreshed. The following herbs are all hypnotic herbs with their other actions for anxiety listed beside them:
Hops - mild sedative
Kava – anxiolytic (alleviates anxiety), mild sedative, muscle relaxant
Passionflower - mild sedative, anxiolytic
Valerian - anxiolytic, mild sedative
Other herbs for anxiety
This next group of herbs cover a variety of actions. When I’m choosing a herb to go into a herbal medicine mix, I’m very aware of the other symptoms in the person I’m treating. So, I would choose a different one depending on what else this person is presenting with.
Chamomile - mild sedative
Gotu kola - nervous system tonic, adaptogen
Gingko - cognition enhancing, neuroprotective
Withania - mild sedative, adaptogen
My favourite 2 herbs for anxiety
These next 2 herbs, I use a lot, the first one is calming to the digestive tract, I find it really effecting in cases of anxiety that presents itself with digestive issues,
or if the person has digestive issues and anxiety, it also works really well. The second is my absolute go to for anxiety. It’s a nervous system tonic that’s calming, so it works to gently calm and relax the nervous system, bringing it into balance.
Lemon balm - mild sedative
Skullcap - nervous system tonic, mild sedative
Herbal teas
Some of these herbs you will find available as teas. This is a safe low dose way to take herbs. You will need to have the tea more than once each day and for at least a month or so, to see some difference in your anxiety. For a therapeutic dose of herbs, a naturopath or herbalist can help make up an individual herbal mix.
GABA-modulating phytomedicines for anxiety: A systematic review of preclinical and clinical evidence
Kathryn Messenger
BHSc (Naturopathy)
kathryn@wholenaturopathy.com.au
Suite 1 53/1880 Ferntree Gully Rd Mountain Gate Shopping Centre Ferntree Gully, Victoria
By Warren Strybosch
The age pension is income support paid by the government with the aim of ensuring all retirees have a minimum level of retirement income.
A person may be eligible for the age pension if they meet the following three tests:
• Are age pension age
• Satisfy residency rules
• Have income and assets below the cutout thresholds
The payment rates and thresholds are indexed each quarter and current rates are available from a financial planner or Centrelink.
If receiving the age pension, all changes to personal and financial circumstances need to be advised to Centrelink. This includes switching investments, gifting money or changes to personal circumstances e.g. separating from a partner.
Age Pension Age
Age pension age is determined by your date of birth as shown in the following table.
1 July 1952 and 31 December 1953
1 January 1954 to 30 June 1955
1 July 1955 to 31 December 1956
1 January 1957 and later
Residency Rules
To be eligible a person must usually have been an Australian resident for at least 10 years, with at least five of these years in one continuous period.
Agreements exist with some countries which may help a person to qualify for the age pension with less than 10 years residency. Details can be checked with Centrelink.
Income and Assets Test
If eligible to apply, the amount of pension payable is calculated under two means tests – the income test and assets test. The test that results in the lower rate of payment is the one that applies.
Income Test
If income is below a certain amount (lower threshold) the full age pension is payable under the income test. The
Age Pension
pension will reduce by $0.50 per fortnight (single or couple combined) for each $1.00 of income over the threshold. No pension is payable if income reaches the upper cut-off threshold.
The lower thresholds are indexed on 1 July each year. The cut-off thresholds also increase on 20 March and 20 September in line with payment increases.
Assessable income may not be the same as actual income or taxable income. Specific rules apply to determine how much income is assessed on some investments. The most common rule is deeming, and this is explained below. The rules for how other sources of income are assessed can be checked with a financial planner or Centrelink.
Assets Test
Assets need to be below a certain amount (lower threshold) to qualify for the full age pension under the assets test. The pension will reduce by $3.00 per fortnight (single or couple combined) for each $1,000 of assets over the threshold. No pension is payable once assets reach the upper cutoff threshold.
The lower thresholds are indexed on 1 July each year. The cut-off thresholds also increase in March and September in line with pension increases.
Assets are assessed at net market value but some assets are exempt, such as the home and superannuation (accumulation phase) under age pension age.
Deeming Rules
Investments classified as ‘financial assets’ will be subject to the deeming rules to determine the assessable income for the income test. The actual income is irrelevant.
Financial assets include:
• Cash
• Bank accounts/term deposits
• Debentures and bonds
• Shares
• Investments in managed funds
• Insurance bonds
• Account Based Pensions (special rules may apply if purchased before 1 January 2015)
• Superannuation balances if you are over age/service pension age
• Loans
• Excess gifts over $10,000 per annum or $30,000 per rolling five year period
Pension Concession Card
A Pensioner Concession Card is available if you receive the age pension and entitles you to reduced-cost medicines under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
You may also be entitled to various concessions from the Australian Government. These could include:
• Bulk billing for doctor's appointments (this is your doctor's decision)
• Higher refunds for medical expenses through the Medicare Safety Net
• Assistance with hearing services
You may also be entitled to various concessions from state and territory governments and local councils. These could include:
• Reductions on property and water rates
• Reductions on energy bills
• Reduced fares on public transport
• Reductions on motor-vehicle registration
• Free rail journeys
Other Entitlements
A pension supplement is added to the pension payable to help with living expenses. A person who is renting a home may also be eligible for Rent Assistance to help with the cost of renting.
Financial Planning, SMSF, Super, Insurance, PreRetirement & Retirement Planning (Financial Planning) are offered via Find Wealth Pty Ltd ACN 140 585 075 t/a Find Wealth, Find Insurance and Find Retirement. Find Wealth Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative (No 468091) of Alliance Wealth Pty Ltd ABN 93 161 647 007 (AFSL No. 449221).Part of the Centrepoint Alliance group(www.centrepointalliance.com.au/ fsg/aw)
Warren Strybosch is Authorised representative (No. 468091) of Alliance Wealth Pty Ltd.
assistance of an authorised financial adviser before making any decision regarding any products or strategies mentioned in this communication.
Whilst all care has been taken in the preparation of this material, it is based on our understanding of current regulatory requirements and laws at the publication date. As these laws are subject to change you should talk to an authorised adviser for the most up-todate information.No warranty is given in respect of the information provided and accordingly neither Alliance Wealth nor its related entities,employees or representatives accepts responsibility for any loss suffered by any person arising from reliance on this information.
A ‘conservation conundrum’ – when rat control to conserve one species threatens another
When pest rats and mice decimate populations of native species, pest control is a no-brainer. But what if baiting rats protects threatened songbirds, while poisoning critically endangered owls?
This is a question conservation managers are grappling with on tiny Norfolk Island, some 1,300 kilometres off the east coast of Australia. They’re not the only ones troubled by such conflicting priorities.
Rodents are implicated in the decline of at least 400 threatened species and 30% of bird, mammal and reptile extinctions worldwide. Unfortunately, the most effective rat baits can also kill birds of prey.
Our new research shows the critically endangered Norfolk Island morepork is eating even more rats and mice than previously thought. These birds of prey are being poisoned in the process. We clearly need a way to control or eradicate rodents without killing our native species.
The conservation conundrum on Norfolk Island
As its name suggests, the Norfolk Island morepork is found only on Norfolk Island. Just 25 birds are left in the world, with none held in captivity. The rate of successful breeding is extremely low.
In our new research, we examined the morepork’s diet in unprecedented detail.
We tracked seven owls, almost a third of the population, to collect their poo and pellets (coughed up like cats do with furballs) for analysis. First we studied
Authors
the contents by sight, then we sent the samples off for DNA sequencing, to work out what they had been eating.
Every owl in our study had eaten rodents. Two owls had eaten house mice. When a bird of prey such as a morepork or boobook eats a poisoned rodent, it can become very unwell or die. This is known as secondary poisoning.
During the course of our research, one sick morepork was found and rehabilitated. We named the owl Rashootin after Grigori Rasputin, the Russian mystic who was famously poisoned yet survived. But if Rashootin hadn’t been found by an islander, he would not have been so lucky.
Unfortunately we don’t know how many other moreporks suffer from secondary poisoning but there is anecdotal evidence it’s a problem. The Norfolk Island morepork chicks that hatched between 2011 and 2019 died from a case of suspected secondary poisoning.
Elsewhere the incidence of secondary poisoning for boobooks, moreporks and larger Ninox species that eat rodents is well documented.
Victoria Florence Sperring Research Officer, Monash University
Rohan Clarke
Associate Professor, School of Biological Sciences, Monash University
An obvious solution would be to modify the use of rodent baits on Norfolk island. Perhaps baiting could be less frequent. Or less toxic baits could be used, to reduce the risk of killing non-target species.
But less toxic baits are not so good at killing rats.
Rat control is deemed necessary on Norfolk Island because the rats prey on other threatened species. In our previous research we found rats were the main cause of “nest failure” for all five songbirds found only on Norfolk Island. This means rats are typically responsible for the failure of these songbirds to rear chicks in any given breeding season. We found rats raided 39% of endangered Norfolk Island robin nests, eating either chicks or eggs.
Adding to the complexity of the challenge, the ranges of Norfolk Island moreporks and robins overlap almost completely at Norfolk Island National Park.
In summary, rat control is essential for the recovery of several threatened species on Norfolk Island, yet this same intervention poses a genuine threat to the tiny remaining morepork population.
How can land managers prioritise the conservation of one threatened species over another?
Manningham
Manningham Council Budget delivered
With almost 800 local people taking part in the consultation on this year’s Budget and 10 Year Financial Plan, Manningham Council is set to deliver for the community in 2024/25 and beyond!
Councillors endorsed the key documents at their meeting last night (25 June).
With an operating budget of $155 million, Council will provide more than 100 valuable services for residents, businesses and visitors. This incorporates maintaining and enhancing community assets with a $55 million capital works program, including:
• $12 million for roads and bridges
• $6 million for footpaths and cycleways
• $4 million for drainage
• $3.1 million for the Schramm’s Cottage Museum Complex Visitor Centre
• $1.6 million for playspace renewals
• $1.2 million for Ruffey Lake Park Masterplan implementation
• $1.1 million for Rieschiecks Reserve Management Plan
• $1.0 million to commence works on a co-working hub
• $1.0 million for a battery for Mullum Mullum stadium
• $0.3 million for a youth hub
Council will also continue to deliver on its Climate Emergency Action Plan to reduce the impacts of climate change, having allocated $11 million in the capital works program (over the next ten years) for Circular Economy, sustainability initiatives.
Conscious of cost-of-living pressures, Council will continue to support rate payers through:
• Freezing the waste service charge well below the 4.80 per cent increase in the cost of waste services to Council.
• Financial hardship provisions including rates rebates for Low Income (LI) Health Care Card holders.
• $2.25 million for community grants and contributions programs.
• Continued financial support to agencies that provide emergency
relief to those in need in the community.
• Funding for the provision of food relief for those in need in the community.
• Subsidies for school holiday programs.
• An average general rate increase in line with the State Government’s rate cap of 2.75 per cent.
Manningham Mayor, Councillor Carli Lange thanked everyone who contributed.
“We’re proud of the Budget and 10 Year Financial Plan and feel we’ve managed to balance delivering on our community’s needs while sustaining our commitment to being a financially responsible Council.
“We started working on the Budget back in November and had an incredible number of residents take part in our three different stages of consultation. Thank you all for your valuable insights.”
Delivering on the Council Plan
• $21 million for a healthy community
• $40 million for liveable places and spaces
• $19 million for a resilient environment
• $6 million for a vibrant prosperous economy
• $33 million for a well governed Council
Budget highlights
$3.1 million to build the Schramm’s Cottage Museum Complex Visitor Centre in Doncaster East
Council will build a new, multipurpose visitor centre in Rieschiecks Reserve as
part of the Waldau Precinct Master Plan. The Visitor Centre will include spaces for exhibitions and meetings, as well as accessible public toilets. Council will also upgrade the paths surrounding the centre and expects the project to be completed in early 2025.
$1.35 million to deliver the main phase of works for the Templestowe Route upgrade in Templestowe
The Templestowe Route is a 1.8km series of important local link roads between Templestowe Road and Williamson Road, including Parker, Swilk, James and Anderson streets.
The upgrade will improve safety, pedestrian connectivity and the quality of infrastructure along the route.
$1.0 million to start work on a coworking hub at MC Square in Doncaster
The co-working business hub at MC Square will be far more than a professionally designed and operated space to conduct business.
It will support a healthy economy and the business community, with a concierge and tailored calendar of events to create excitement and stimulate cooperation, as well as spaces for 30 to 40 users. Council expects the co-working business hub to open in July 2025.
Read the Budget 2024/25
Read the 10 Year Financial Plan 2024/25 to 2033/34
Council
Work to begin on a co-working business hub at MC Square Doncaster
Local home-based and small businesses will benefit from a vibrant new co-working business hub located at MC Square Doncaster from mid-next year.
Manningham Council is investing $1.6 million from the 2024–2025 and 2025-2026 Council Budgets to redevelop existing, underutilised space to create a highend, well-resourced and accessible work destination for local business operators.
Recent studies show that, while demand for co-working environments has grown post-COVID, there is a significant shortage of available spaces in the eastern region. An estimated 80 per cent of all registered Manningham businesses are homebased and Manningham Mayor, Cr Carli Lange said the hub will play an important role in supporting these businesses.
“We know there are significant, proven benefits to co-working spaces, including opportunities to grow your networks, collaborate with other entrepreneurs and access professional high-end facilities without the usual overhead,” Cr Lange said.
“Small business owners and operators are a crucial part of our local economy
and we are passionate about helping them to succeed. “Our new co-working business hub will be an investment in the future of small business,” the Mayor added.
The development and operation of the co-working business hub is a Council Plan 2021–2025 priority and a key part of the Economic Development Strategy 2023–2028.
The Hub will be a contemporary space with everything on hand, including day and evening networking and upskilling events and a virtual receptionist, enabling members to have a dedicated business address for correspondence.
Filled with natural light, the space overlooks the leafy environment of Doncaster and beyond to the mountains. A vibrant café space downstairs provides a place for coffee and chats with clients and business connections.
The hub will also feature Council’s Business Concierge service, providing dedicated support to establish and grow your business. The project is expected to be deliveredin July 2025, with capacity for 30–40 individuals.
“Council will consult with our local business owners and our friends at the Manningham Business Network throughout the hub’s development, to ensure we are delivering the best possible space for local commerce to thrive,” Cr Lange said.
MC Square, as a modern Council facility bringing together a range of other services, is an ideal location for the coworking space.
MC Square will undergo a revitalisation in the coming months, to become a space where different areas of the community can come together with a common purpose.
In addition to the co-working hub, the upgrade includes plans for refreshed internal branding and wayfinding, a new youth hub and redeveloped library facility.
Business owners will have the opportunity to check out the co-working business hub prior to redevelopment alongside the project architect in the coming months. Follow @ManninghamCouncil or keep an eye on manningham.vic.gov. au for more information.
New youth hub to open at MC Square
Manningham Council will open a new youth hub at MC Square in Doncaster this August to support young people across Manningham.
MY Hub will open its doors on Thursday 8 August 2024 as a dedicated space for young people aged 10 to 25 in Manningham to find support, resources, and referrals from Manningham’s Youth Services (EACH) team.
Manningham Mayor, Councillor Carli Lange said Council is committed to supporting all young people in our community.
“Our young people are the future of Manningham. We want to make sure everyone has the resources and support they need to thrive locally,” Cr Lange said.
“MY Hub will be a welcoming and empowering space where young people can find the help they need to grow, connect, and thrive in our community.”
The services available at MY Hub will include:
• Free mentoring support, guidance, and advice for young people aged 10 to 25
• Leadership and community engagement opportunities
• Youth programs for schools and local community groups
• Support for community service providers and businesses
“In my discussions with Manningham Deputy Mayor and chair of the Manningham Youth Advisory Committee Councillor Laura Mayne, she said it will be a great new space for Manningham and encourages everyone to check out the new youth hub” Cr Lange said.
“Our goal is to create a welcoming space where young people can access the support they need, engage with their community, and build a bright future,” Cr Lange said The youth hub is a key action in Council’s 2021-2025 Council Plan, which prioritises better support and services for young people.
“Creating a youth hub is a major initiative that reflects our community’s desire for better youth support services.
We are committed to ensuring everyone can access these resources easily and be part of a healthy and safe community,” Cr Lange said.
Located on level one of MC Square in Doncaster, MY Hub will join a range of other community services that make MC Square a central hub for the Manningham community, including Whitehorse Manningham Libraries, Manningham Art Gallery, Doncare, Doncaster Maternal and Child Health Service, Doncaster Kindergarten, and Early Years at MC Square.
For young people, parents, or carers looking for support, visit MY Hub at MC Square in Doncaster or reach out via the website below.
each.com.au/manninghamyouth Project updates will be available on the Manningham Council website below. manningham.vic.gov.au/news
Culture at its core – inspirational exhibition now on at the Manningham Art Gallery
Manningham resident and trailblazing interdisciplinary artist Grace Dlabik is presenting her latest exhibition titled kose karu kin at the Manningham Art Gallery from 26 June to 10 August.
Grace has over 25-years’ experience and has been highly sought after for her vision and work in future thinking and community building. Grace’s work has been deeply informed by her Melanesian heritage as she creates connected environments with community care and culture at its core.
Manningham Mayor, Councillor Carli
Lange, said the exhibition is a fantastic opportunity to experience the works of local resident and distinguished artist Grace Dlabik.
“This immersive exhibition explores the themes of culture, connection and community and I encourage everyone to visit the gallery and enjoy.” Cr Lange said.
Grace was awarded the 2023 Mordant BLAK C.O.R.E Fellowship, during which she led karu kin, a project focused on connecting indigenous women and non- binary folk through clay making. This project informed her current
exhibition at the Manningham Art Gallery, titled kose karu kin.
“This exhibition is a combination of my own art, titled kose, and a special project karu kin thatI led during my fellowship.” Grace said.
“kose is comprised of limestone sculptures that represent pillars of strength in community, kinship systems of care and nourishment.
“A reminder of who I am, who we are and where we come from and honouring my matrilineal bloodline.
“karu kin is the project that speaks to the kinship relationality and ways of connection through gathering and sharing through clay making. This involved seven indigenous women and non-binary people.
“Both projects of work use nature as a way of deeply connecting to our culture and the body of work that combines the use of both materials of the earth, limestone and clay.”
To see Grace’s incredible exhibition and experience her inspired work in person, visit the Manningham Art Gallery, located Ground Level, MC Square, 687 Doncaster Road, Doncaster.
For more details, visit manningham.vic. gov.au/events/kose-karu-kin.
Image kose karu kin - close up view - photo credit Dan Elborne. Image courtesy of Grace Dlabik.
Image of Grace Dlabik with dog photo credit Alex Jovovich
Image of Grace Dlabik working photo credit Dan Elborne and image courtesy of Grace Dlabik.
