Crest Accountants Services

Retirement Planning

Retirement Planning Services

Do you know when you want to retire?
What do you want your retirement to look like?
Is there more you could be doing now, to live the retirement you dream of?
These are just some of the important questions to ask yourself right now.

Planning for peace of mind

The sooner you answer these questions and take the necessary steps to plan for your retirement, the sooner you can focus on enjoying the life you’re living now.

Consider what a comfortable retirement would mean to you and put a plan in place to get there. Our Retirement Planning Services are here to help you do just that.

Retirement Planning Services with Crest Accountants

When you think about your retirement, what does it look like to you? Is it a modest lifestyle, covering only basic activities? Or is it more comfortable with leisure activities and travel? Retirement planning can help you go from a modest retirement lifestyle to the retirement lifestyle that you want, where you are comfortable and enjoying your golden years. Do you know how much you need to save for a comfortable retirement lifestyle?

If you don’t know how or where to start with planning for your retirement, you’ve come to the right place. Our team has over 45 years experience in helping clients with financial planning and retirement.

Meeting with one of our experienced financial planners and retirement accountants is the best place to begin your retirement planning journey. We can help with professional advice and guidance that will help you achieve a happy and comfortable retirement.

Retirement Planning Services provided by Crest’s Retirement Accountants

Talk to our team of retirement planning specialists to help you set a personalised, goal-oriented retirement plan that will help you achieve happy and comfortable retirement.

1. Goal setting for a retirement plan

What does a comfortable lifestyle in retirement look like to you? Crest Advisors can work with you to find out what that might be and to put a plan in place to get there.

2. Budgeting for retirement savings

Crest Accountants can work with you to assess all of your income and expenses, then create a budget that you can stick to in order to redirect excess cash to your retirement savings plan.

3. Debt reduction before your retirement

We will help you to take stock of all of the debts you are liable for now and make a plan to pay them down before retirement. We will focus on clearing high interest debt first, then work on remaining debts like the home mortgage.

4. Superannuation contributions to your retirement savings

Superannuation Guarantee requires that employers contribute 10.5% of an employees’ ordinary time earnings into their superfund (this is increasing to 12% by 2025). Making additional voluntary contributions to your superfund as early and as frequently as possible can dramatically increase your savings over time. You can also use this strategy to minimise tax in certain circumstances. Crest Advisors will explore these options for you and show you how this strategy could benefit you.

5. Government Age Pension and retirement planning

Many people will fund their retirement with a combination of personal savings or investments, a superannuation income stream, and a part or full government age pension. Crest Advisors can assist you to access the government age pension if you qualify.

Not only will we work with you to help you plan for all of the above in the future, but we’ll also help you understand how these areas are working for you now, to help you discover the retirement plan that’s right for you.

The best way to plan for retirement is to talk to our financial advisors to find out how you can save for retirement, access the benefits of the superannuation system, reduce expenses, pay down debts, and boost your superfund balance well before retirement. Retirement is a new stage in life, and you need to be prepared mentally and set up goals for your stress-free retirement. Your family should also be prepared for your retirement.

Understanding Superannuation and your retirement plan

The superannuation system is one of the most popular ways that Australians build their nest eggs and save for retirement. Ideally a superfund is a continually growing investment and savings account that potentially provides generous tax benefits.

How can you boost your Super before retirement?

The earlier you start planning and saving for your retirement, the better. We have many wealth management financial planning clients who ask us the best ways to increase their superfund savings when they reach the age of 50, however our tips and advice can be used to help anyone at any age.

Make voluntary tax-deductible contributions

Thanks to Superannuation Guarantee, your employer is required to contribute 10.5% (increasing to 12% as of 2025) of your ordinary time earnings to your superfund. If you want to grow your super balance further, and certain eligibility conditions are met, you can make your own voluntary contributions to your superfund.

These additional voluntary contributions may be tax-deductible, subject to the annual concessional contributions cap of $27,500, which applies to both employer Superannuation Guarantee contributions and your additional voluntary contributions.

If you haven’t used the all of the concessional contributions cap of $27,500 in the past, the ATO does allow you to carry forward your unused concessional contributions. This means that, provided eligibility requirements are met, you are able to contribute more than the $27,500 in a single year and receive a tax deduction.

In many cases, your voluntary concessional contributions that are under the capped amount are taxed at a rate of 15% inside your superfund. There is an additional top-up contributions tax of 15% for very high income earners (known as Division 293 tax). For those whose marginal tax rate is greater than 15%, making voluntary concessional contributions may result a net tax benefit.

If you want to make additional tax-deductible contributions to your superfund, there are different ways you can do this.

Salary Sacrifice – You can request that some of your wages are diverted to your superfund by your employer, as salary sacrificed super contributions.
Voluntary personal contributions – These are contributions that you make on your own. You will need to contact your superfund to do this. Also, if you intend for these contributions to be tax deductible, you will need to complete the required form at the end of the year and submit it to your superfund. Once the superfund has processed this form, they will send you a letter of acknowledgement. This letter must be on hand before you lodge your tax return. Be sure to talk to an experienced wealth advisor to assess if voluntary concessional super contributions could work for you.

By adding small contributions, such as a few hundred dollars, to your superfund whenever you can, you can give a considerable boost to your retirement savings. Superfunds grow with the power of compounding over time.

As a sole trader or self-employed person, you cannot forget to pay yourself super. If you make these payments a habit, you can benefit in the future and also minimise your tax now.

Increase your retirement savings by selling an asset

If you have a large ticket asset, such as an investment property, and you are planning to sell it, you can consider contributing some of the sale proceeds to your superfund. With the non-concessional contributions cap, you can contribute $110,000 annually, or $330,000 if you are eligible for the bring forward rule. This cap can be used to dramatically boost your retirement savings. However, you are not eligible for a tax deduction for contributions made under this cap. Ask our team of wealth advisors for more information on this cap, and to assess if you qualify for the bring forward rule to make substantial contributions to your retirement savings.

Downsize your main residence

If you are over 60 and are downsizing your main residence to a smaller property, you can contribute up to $300,000 (per person) from the sale to super. This contribution is not eligible for a tax deduction and also does not count towards contribution caps. It does, however, count towards your transfer balance cap. There are conditions surrounding downsizer contributions, so you should to speak to a financial advisor to assess if you qualify for this option.

Retirement Planning FAQ’s

When it comes to retirement financial planning, the earlier you start the better, and you should know that it’s never too late to start. Our team of retirement accountants are here to answer any questions you may have, and alleviate any concerns whilst providing you with the confidence and reassurance you need to make a plan and set goals that are right for you. Remember, everyone’s retirement plan is different. We can provide guidance on how retirement funds can work for you and what retirement investments may be appropriate. We pride ourselves on providing independent and unbiased advice.

What is meant by retirement fund?

A retirement fund is money or investments you have accumulated over your working life to fund your retirement. This is often a combination of personal savings or investments, plus your superannuation balance.

When can you withdraw your Super?

You can access your super once you satisfy a condition of release. This usually means any of the following:

Reaching preservation age and have retired.
Reaching preservation age and beginning a transition to retirement income stream.
Ceasing employment after age 60.
Have turned 65 (even if you are not retired).

Am I eligible for the government Age Pension?

The age you qualify for the Age Pension will be between 65 and 67, depending on your date of birth.

Your eligibility for the Age Pension will usually come down to three things:

You must be an Australian resident and physically present in the country on the day you submit your claim. You also must have lived in Australia for at least 10 years and continuously, for at least five of those years.
You pass the Income test
You pass the Assets test

If you’re the right age, meet residency requirements, and pass the income and assets test, you’ll then need to fill out a claim form with Centrelink.

Plan for your future with Crest

The team of wealth advisors at Crest Advisors can help you plant the seeds which will grow into a financially fruitful future and comfortable retirement. Wealth management, education and protection are here for you, along with all the help you need with financial planning and building your retirement fund.

Contact our team today for retirement financial planning that grows, protects you and your family, and reaps rewards in your later years.

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Disclaimer:
Crest Accountants is not licensed to provide financial planning services. Jesse Phillips, Paul Timms, Robert Hayward, Cassidy Hayes and Crest Wealth Pty Ltd ACN: 604 419 187 ATF Crest Wealth Trust T/as Crest Wealth are licensed to provide Financial Planning Services. They are authorised representatives of Crest Wealth Advice Pty Ltd AFS License No: 531122 for Financial Planning Services only.

How Crest Accountants can help

We’ve been helping clients plan their retirement for over 45 years. Now, with the help of our financial planning team, we’re here to help you plan yours too, with even more professional power than before.

It’s okay if you don’t know where or how to start on your retirement planning journey. By meeting with our experienced accountants and financial planners, you’ll benefit from professional advice, education and guidance to help you get started.

When it comes to retirement planning, the earlier the better, but it’s never too late to start. We’re here to answer any questions you may have, and alleviate any concerns, whilst providing you with the confidence and reassurance you need to move forward.

Our Retirement Planning Services include:

Not only will we work with you to help you plan for all of the above in the future, we’ll help you understand how these areas are working for you now, to help you discover the retirement plan that’s right for you.

A life well worked, lived and loved deserves some downtime in its twilight years, and all this is made possible with a sound retirement plan from Crest.

Frequently Asked Questions About Retirement Planning

How much super do I need to retire comfortably in Australia?

According to ASFA, a single person needs approximately $595,000–$630,000 and a couple around $690,000–$730,000 (combined) at age 67, assuming you own your home and receive a part Age Pension. Your target will vary based on lifestyle, retirement age, and health, a personalised plan will give you a much more accurate number.

When can I access my superannuation?

You can access your super once you reach your preservation age (60 for anyone born after 1 July 1964) and retire, cease employment after 60, or turn 65 regardless of employment status. A Transition to Retirement strategy is also available from preservation age if you want to draw on super while still working.

What age do I qualify for the Age Pension?

The eligibility age is currently 67. You must meet residency requirements and pass both an income and assets test. Many retirees combine super with a part or full Age Pension, and structuring your finances correctly can help maximise what you’re entitled to.

Is it too late to start retirement planning in my 50s?

No, your 50s can be one of the most impactful decades for boosting your retirement savings. Strategies like salary sacrifice, catch-up concessional contributions (if your super balance is under $500,000), and downsizer contributions (if you’re over 55 and selling your home) can make a significant difference in the years before you retire.

What is salary sacrifice and how does it help with retirement savings?

Salary sacrifice redirects part of your pre-tax salary into super, where it’s taxed at just 15% instead of your marginal rate (which could be 32.5% or higher). It’s one of the most tax-effective ways to grow your retirement savings, subject to the annual concessional contributions cap of $30,000.

What happens to my superannuation when I die?

Super doesn’t automatically form part of your estate, it’s held in trust by your fund. A binding death benefit nomination lets you direct where it goes. Without one, the trustee decides. Reviewing your nominations regularly and factoring super into your estate plan is essential.

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   Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
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   Aaron Larkin 
 13 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. UPDATE - 1 September 2026 After my initial experience, Crest followed up and explained that my original email had unfortunately been caught by their spam filtering. They took the time to investigate what happened and get everything back on track. I have since met with Wesley, and the experience was excellent. He was straightforward, knowledgeable and refreshingly honest about what I actually need rather than trying to sell me services unnecessarily. He gave me practical advice around setting up my contracting business and was very generous with his time. I particularly appreciated Wesley’s practical and transparent approach. He focused on what would genuinely be useful for me rather than trying to push unnecessary services, and that level of honesty goes a long way. Overall, the initial communication issue was disappointing, but the way it was handled afterwards, particularly my experience with Wesley, has significantly changed my impression of Crest. Around a 4.5/5 experience overall and I would happily recommend Wesley. UPDATE – 21 August 2026 Crest Accountants have since contacted me and I now have a meeting booked with them for next Friday. My original review was based on having sent an email directly to their general info email address and receiving no response or acknowledgement for around three weeks. It appears there may have been an issue with my original enquiry reaching the right person, although I'm still not sure exactly what happened. Once contact was established, they got back to me promptly by phone and were helpful in arranging a meeting. I've updated my rating from 1 to 3 stars to reflect this and will update the review again after I've had the opportunity to meet with them and experience their service properly. ORIGINAL REVIEW Extremely disappointing experience with Crest Accountants. I contacted them three weeks ago and received absolutely no response — not even a basic acknowledgement that my email was received. I understand businesses get busy, but three weeks of complete silence from a professional accounting firm is simply poor customer service. If they were unable to assist, a short email saying so would have been perfectly acceptable. Based on my experience at the time, I couldn't recommend them to anyone looking for responsive or reliable communication.

Owner's reply
Hi Aaron, Thank you for your feedback. We're sorry to hear about your experience. We take client service seriously and have reviewed our recent enquiry records. Based on the information available to us, we have not been able to identify an enquiry matching the details outlined in your review. It is possible there may have been a misunderstanding, or that an enquiry was submitted under a different name, such as by a spouse, partner or family member, in which case correspondence may have been sent to that individual. We would genuinely appreciate the opportunity to investigate this further and clarify what has occurred. Please contact our office on (07) 5538 0999 and leave your contact details, requesting that they be passed on to Nigel. I will personally review the matter and follow up with you directly. Kind regards, Crest Accountants
  
 
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   Sarah Greenwold 
 63 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My partner and I moved from NZ to Aus and we were looking around for an accountant that would help my partner transition his business from a sole trader in NZ to now a company set up in Aus. We came across Crest Accountant's and honestly it’s been amazing. We have Sarah as my partners accountant and she is so awesome, so lovely and always helps, she explains things clearly to us and we are quite new to all the ‘accounting terms’ as such… But Crest accountants have made the transition so easy for us and as something we would think would be stressful, it hasn’t at all because they’ve been so helpful and onto it. If you are looking for an accountant, I can’t recommend Crest enough! We are so happy with our decision and will recommend them to anyone! Thank you Crest!

Owner's reply
Thank you for your kind words and for trusting Crest Accountants with your move from New Zealand to Australia. We're thrilled to hear Sarah helped make the transition from sole trader to company structure simple and stress-free. Providing clear accounting, tax and business advice for small business owners is what we're all about. We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to supporting your business growth for years to come!
  
 
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   Ada Skopljak 
 75 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can’t recommend Sarah Fleming from Crest Accountants highly enough. She has been absolutely fantastic throughout my accounting and tax matters. Sarah is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and thorough. She took the time to explain everything clearly, answered all of my questions with patience, and made what initially felt like a stressful situation much easier to understand and manage. Her attention to detail and genuine commitment to achieving the best outcome for her clients really stood out. I truly felt supported throughout the entire process, and it gave me great confidence knowing my finances were in such capable hands. If you’re looking for an accountant who is honest, reliable, approachable, and exceptionally good at what she does, I would highly recommend Sarah Fleming and the team at Crest Accountants. Thank you, Sarah, for all your hard work and outstanding service!

Owner's reply
Thank you so much for such a thoughtful review, Ada. We’re delighted that Sarah made your tax and accounting matters feel clear and manageable — she genuinely cares about getting the best result for every client, and we’ll be sure to pass on your kind words. It’s a pleasure having you with Crest Accountants, and we’re always here whenever you need us.
  
 
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   Joanne Roberts 
 83 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recently worked with Wesley on a mutual client's finance application and found him to be highly professional, responsive, and easy to work with. He was quick to provide the information required and helped ensure the process progressed smoothly from start to finish. It's always a pleasure working with professionals who are proactive and focused on achieving great outcomes for their clients. I would happily recommend Wesley and Crest Accountants team.

Owner's reply
Thank you, Joanne — it was a pleasure working alongside you. Wesley and the team really value collaborating with professionals who share our focus on great outcomes for clients, and we appreciate you taking the time to share your experience.
  
 
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   stefan kubler 
 154 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been dealing with the Crest Team for over a year now. I have found their knowledge with all aspects from Bookkeeping to Tax Guidance, ATO Regulations and obligations to be Over 100%. Very friendly and Helpful Team. Highly recommend their Services

Owner's reply
Thank you Stefan, for your kind review and for being a valued client of Crest Accountants. We’re glad you’ve found our support across bookkeeping, tax advice, and ATO compliance helpful. Providing clear, reliable guidance with a friendly and professional approach is important to us, and we appreciate your recommendation. We look forward to continuing to support you.
  
 
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   Valeria Davidov 
 154 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Craig Pearson has been my accountant for more than 6 years now and I can only say that he is highly professional.

Owner's reply
Thank you so much for your kind words and continued trust over the past 6+ years. Craig takes great pride in delivering a high level of professionalism and service, and feedback like yours is truly appreciated. We look forward to continuing to support you in the years ahead.
  
 
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   Stephen Childs 
 157 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Crest Accountants have provided great service towards our accounting needs for our family business and SMSF. A special mention to our personal accountant Nicole Amaya for all her support and direction over the years and we would certainly recommend Crest Accountants.

Owner's reply
Thank you so much Stephen, for your kind words and recommendation. We’re delighted to hear that Crest Accountants has been able to support your family business and SMSF over the years. We will certainly pass on your special mention to Nicole Amaya, who will be thrilled to know her guidance and support have made a positive difference. We truly appreciate your trust and look forward to continuing to work with you into the future.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Serena Keeffe 
 157 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve had a great experience working with the Crest team. Their clarity in explaining financial matters makes everything easy to understand, even when things get complex. They consistently provide proactive advice that helps me stay ahead rather than just reacting at tax time, which has been incredibly valuable. What really stands out is their focus on long-term support—they genuinely care about helping you grow and make better financial decisions over time. A special mention to Ange, who is always so helpful, responsive, and approachable. She goes above and beyond to make sure everything runs smoothly and no question goes unanswered. Highly recommend to anyone looking for reliable, forward-thinking accounting support.

Owner's reply
Thank you so much for your thoughtful review — we really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. We’re pleased to hear that our clear explanations and proactive advice have helped you stay ahead and feel confident with your financial decisions. Long‑term support is very important to us, so it’s great to know that’s come through in your experience. Your feedback will be shared with Ange as recognition of the care and dedication she brings to her work. Thank you again for your recommendation and for trusting Crest Accountants as your accounting partner.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Marco Ruas 
 158 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I couldn’t be happier with the service I’ve received from  Angela at Crest Accountants. She is  incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and always takes the time to explain things clearly so I feel confident about my finances. Her attention to detail and proactive approach has saved me both time and money, and she consistently goes above and beyond to make sure everything is handled perfectly. Communication is always prompt and friendly, and nothing ever feels like too much trouble. It’s rare to find someone so trustworthy and genuinely invested in their clients’ success. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for an outstanding accountant.

Owner's reply
Thank you for your wonderful feedback Marco. We’re thrilled to hear about your experience with Angela and appreciate your kind words regarding her professionalism, attention to detail, and clear, proactive communication. Providing trusted advice and ensuring our clients feel confident in their financial decisions is always our priority. Thank you for your recommendation and we look forward to continuing to support you.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Terrie Watson 
 158 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Crest accountants have been our accountants for over 20 years during that time Angela and Wes have supported our businesses with clarity and efficiency They have always been proactive in advising us of changes in the taxation realm and attending to all our accountancy needs in a timely manner I would not hesitate in recommending them to anyone looking for a honest reliable accountancy service

Owner's reply
Thank you Terrie, for your continued trust and for taking the time to share your experience. Supporting your businesses for over 20 years has been a privilege, and we truly appreciate your kind words. We are pleased to know that our commitment to providing timely, proactive advice has delivered meaningful value for you. We sincerely value the long-standing relationship we’ve built and appreciate your recommendation, and we look forward to continuing to support your businesses into the future.