Seven money tricks that just became a whole lot better

May 16, 2026 — 5:01am

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Australians are a pretty resilient bunch when it comes to money. Every time the rules change, we find the new angles, the smarter structures and the opportunities still sitting in the system for us to use. And after the budget, a few specific ones come into focus.

Yes, this budget will sting for some people, particularly those with wealth sitting outside super and younger Australians still trying to build a deposit.

The government’s decision to replace the 50 per cent capital gains tax discount with an inflation-adjusted cost base indexation and a minimum 30 per cent tax on capital gains from July 1, 2027, is a significant shift. Combine that with negative gearing being limited to new builds from the same date, and the investing landscape has truly changed.

But here’s what I want you to do: instead of spending the next six months fuming about it, look for the opportunities that just got a lot more interesting – particularly if you’re a Gen X parent trying to help your adult kids get ahead while also navigating your own path toward an epic retirement.

Here are seven money moves worth paying attention to this week that might not have been as appealing before.

1. Teach your adult kids about the First Home Super Saver Scheme

This one might be the sleeper hit of the whole budget conversation. The First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSS) lets eligible first home buyers make voluntary contributions of up to $15,000 per year into their super, then withdraw up to $50,000 of those contributions (plus deemed earnings) to buy their first home.

Why does this matter now more than ever? Because those voluntary concessional contributions are taxed at just 15 per cent inside super. Under the new CGT rules from 2027, investments outside super could face a minimum 30 per cent tax on gains.

Super just became one of the most tax-effective places a young person can build a home deposit.

The government may have accidentally created the country’s best first-home savings account. If your kids haven’t heard of the FHSS scheme, now’s the time for a family conversation.

Didn’t retire with ‘enough’? Here’s how to make the most of it

Bec WilsonMoney contributor

2. Gift your kids $1000 and potentially get a........

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