How and where should I invest my money?
Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow your wealth, one of the most important financial questions you can ask is: "How and where should I invest my money?"
At McMillans, we help people across all life stages make smart, informed decisions about investing—based on their goals, circumstances, and comfort with risk. Let’s walk through the key things you should consider before you invest your first dollar.
Step 1: Choosing the right investment structure
Before you decide what to invest in, it’s crucial to decide how you’re going to invest.
There are several structures available:
In your own name or jointly with a partner
Superannuation (including SMSFs)
Investment or discretionary trusts
Companies or partnerships
Managed funds, which combine multiple investors’ money into a pooled portfolio
Each structure comes with its own tax implications, risks, and responsibilities—so it’s important to choose the right one from the outset. Our team can help you compare these options and select the one that suits your circumstances best.
Step 2: Choosing what to invest in
Once your structure is in place, the next decision is where to put your money. This will depend on your goals (e.g. income vs. growth), your timeline, and your appetite for risk.
Here are a few common asset classes:
Shares – Offer higher potential returns, but come with more volatility.
Property – Can provide capital growth and rental income.
Cash – Includes savings accounts and term deposits; lower risk but lower returns.
Fixed interest – Bonds or debentures with regular income and moderate risk.
A well-rounded investment strategy often involves a diversified mix of these options.
Step 3: Matching investments to your risk profile
The most important piece of the puzzle is you—your mindset, goals, and tolerance for risk.
Some investors thrive on higher-risk, higher-return options like shares. Others prefer the stability of property or fixed interest. And some people want a mix that balances income and growth while helping them sleep well at night.
At McMillans, we can help you:
Understand your risk tolerance
Create a personalised investment profile
Develop a strategy that suits your life stage and goals
Not sure where to start? Let’s talk.
Investing doesn’t need to be complicated—but it does need to be done with care.
If you’re unsure about how to get started, how much to invest, or what structure is right for you, get in touch with the McMillans team. We’ll guide you through the options and help you feel confident about your next financial move.