Wise with cash

PEOPLE who are facing retirement are encouraged to attend a series of information sessions, which offer practical advice on financial and accommodation options.
The ‘Taking Care of Your Money’ sessions are an initiative by the City of Casey, the Victorian Government and Victoria University and City of Casey mayor Shar Balmes said financial security was a fundamental issue for people as they age.
“A key factor to ageing positively is having the security of an adequate income to meet the cost of living, now and into the future,” Cr Balmes said.
“Feeling confident about having the financial means to meet current and possible future needs has a significant impact on older people’s confidence and wellbeing.”
John Doutch, Casey’s Senior Citizen of the Year for 2011, said it was important to plan ahead for retirement, including the transition out of full-time work.
“Planning for retirement should commence as early as possible, with flexibility to change the plan if need be,” Mr Doutch said.
“Life will always be full of challenges, so it is important to approach retirement positively, with enthusiasm and to have a plan,” he said.
The information sessions are open to retirees, those who are about to retire and would like to know more about budgeting, financial planning, superannuation and housing options.
Casey residents can attend all sessions, or just the ones they feel will be more beneficial.
Sessions are:
Retirement Planning – Financial Matters, Wednesday 30 March, 7pm-9pm
Superannuation, Wednesday 6 April, 7pm-9pm
Reverse Mortgages, Wednesday 13 April, 7pm-8:30pm
Housing Accommodation Options, Wednesday 20 April, 7pm -9pm
All sessions will be held at City of Casey Civic Centre, Magid Drive, Narre Warren. To register, call 9919 1868 or email eaps@vu.edu.au.