Money basics
20 November, 2025

Reset, recharge, rebalance

The end of the year’s a great time to take a breath, reflect, and get your money sorted before the new one kicks off. Whether you’re saving for a trip, paying off a credit card, or just trying to feel more in control, a few small steps now can make a big difference.

Here’s how to wrap up the year feeling financially fresher and more confident.

1. Take a quick money scan

Open your banking app and scroll through your recent transactions. What’s been worth it? What could you cut back on next year? No guilt, just a chance to spot patterns and make tweaks. You might like to use what you find to set a few realistic goals for 2026.  

Check out our small change calculator to see how small changes today can make a big difference tomorrow. 

 

2. Automate the boring stuff 

You could consider setting up direct debits for savings or bills. Automation means fewer decisions and more consistency, especially when life gets busy. Even a small amount each week into savings can add up over time. 

 

3. Learn one new money move

Financial confidence starts with knowledge. Pick one thing to learn before the year ends, like how to build a budget, invest your spare change, or manage your debt smarter. Podcasts, short videos, or quick reads can make it easy to level up without the overwhelm.  

Head to moneysmart.gov.au for simple, practical tips to boost your money know-how. 

 

4. Check in with yourself 

The holidays can be exciting, but they can also bring financial stress. If things feel a bit overwhelming, don’t keep it to yourself. Reaching out for support can make a real difference. 

Talk to someone you trust — a friend, a family member, or even a financial coach. And remember, help is also available through 360Health’s virtual health services, a wellbeing program that provides access to a wide range of virtual health tools, resources and expert care.1 
 
If money worries are adding pressure, the National Debt Helpline offers free, confidential support from qualified financial counsellors who can help you manage debt, negotiate with creditors and create a plan to get back on track. 

You can also explore our Extra care and support for members page for more trusted services and wellbeing resources designed to help you through life’s ups and downs. 

 

5. Give your super a once-over

It might not be top of mind, but your super is quietly growing in the background, and it’s worth checking in on. Log in to Member Online and take a look at: 

  • Your investment options—do they suit your age and current goals? 
  • Your contact details and beneficiaries—are they up to date? 
  • Your balance and contributions—are they on track? 

Not seeing the employer contributions you expected? Don’t worry — we can help you work out what’s going on and what steps to take. Find out more

Small steps, big impact 

You don’t need a full financial overhaul, just a few smart moves to finish the year strong. You’ve got this. 

 
1Consider the PDS and TMD at caresuper.com.au/pds. Issued by CareSuper Pty Ltd (Trustee) (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238718). CareSuper (Fund) (ABN 74 559 365 913).  

Life insurance products are issued by MetLife Insurance Limited (ABN 75 004 274 882, AFSL 238096) (MetLife). 360Health services are provided in conjunction with Teladoc Health Australasia Pty Ltd (ACN 147 387 666) (Teladoc Health), a separate entity to MetLife and CareSuper. 360Health services are not provided by way of insurance (including health insurance) and the provision of these services is not dependent on the occurrence of an insured event. The information provided is general only and does not take into account your personal or financial situation, needs or objectives and is not health or medical advice. 

MetLife and CareSuper do not warrant or represent that the information, opinions or conclusions contained in this information are accurate. MetLife and CareSuper will not be responsible for the nature or quality of services provided by Teladoc Health. All services except for Recovery Support are provided by Teladoc Health. 

Access to 360Health services will be at MetLife’s reasonable discretion and is available to all eligible clients, partnered super fund members and their children, partner, parents and parents-in-law. MetLife reserves the right to discontinue or change the services at any time. Before deciding whether to acquire, or continuing to hold, any of our products, please read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Target Market Determination (TMD) available at metlife.com.au and relevant PDS, TMD and Insurance Guide available from your super fund. Speak to a financial adviser for specific personal financial advice. CareSuper does not recommend or endorse the above services or receive any financial benefit if you choose to use these services.  

This is general information only and doesn’t take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making a decision about CareSuper, you should consider if this information is right for you.