Navigating finances during maternity leave is crucial for Australian moms. Discover tips to manage this transformative time effectively. Welcoming a new addition to the family is an exhilarating journey, but it comes with its own set of challenges, particularly in terms of finances. For new mothers in Australia, managing finances during maternity leave is a critical aspect of preparing for parenthood. In this article, we will delve into the financial realities that arise during maternity leave and provide practical tips on how to effectively manage your finances during this transformative period. Maternity Leave in Australia: Financial Realities Maternity leave in Australia typically extends for up to 12 months, during which new mothers are eligible for various government benefits and employer-provided leave. Services Australia, in particular, mandates that starting for births or adoptions after 1 July 2023, the Parental Leave Pay (PLP) gross payout stands at $176.55 a day, or $882.75 a work week. A parent in a couple can receive it for up to 90 days. However, benefits like PLP might not fully replace your regular income, leading to a potential financial strain. This abrupt reduction in earnings can create a challenge, especially when coupled with the additional costs associated with caring for a newborn. Managing the Costs of Parenthood The journey into parenthood introduces an array of new expenses that need to be incorporated into your budget. Medical Expenses From prenatal checkups to postnatal care, medical costs can accumulate rapidly. Make sure you are aware of any out-of-pocket expenses and factor them into your budget. Baby Essentials Diapers, clothing, baby gear, and nursery items are essential expenditures. Consider budget-friendly alternatives, such as buying second-hand items, to alleviate costs. When it comes to nappies, Raising Children AU recommends using cloth nappies over disposables to prevent rubbish buildup and make cleaning easier.  Childcare If your plan involves returning to work after maternity leave, childcare costs will become a significant factor. Research and budget for various childcare options to determine the most feasible solution for your family. Income Reduction The decrease in income during maternity leave can be daunting, especially if the mother has a partner who might be the sole income-earner for their household. Preparing for this drop in earnings is crucial for maintaining financial stability. Strategies for Effective Budgeting During Maternity Leave Maternity leave can be a tedious time for a new mum, in many aspects, but they can be managed to alleviate stress and the purse. Anticipate and Prepare Ideally, initiate financial planning for maternity leave well in advance of your due date. Evaluate your current financial situation, calculate your expected maternity leave benefits, and ascertain the extent of the potential financial gap. Develop a Comprehensive Budget Establish a thorough budget that encompasses all your expenditures, including essential bills, groceries, transportation, and existing debts. This will provide you with a clear overview of your financial commitments. Emergency Fund Maintaining an emergency fund is imperative, particularly during maternity leave. This fund acts as a safety net for unexpected expenses or emergencies that might arise. Review Your Insurance Confirm that you have adequate health and life insurance coverage to safeguard both you and your growing family against unforeseen medical costs or circumstances. The federal government’s MoneySmart portal states that if you decide to have all pregnancy and natal costs covered under private insurance, be aware that the waiting list might go as long as 12 months.    Prioritise Spending Distinguish between needs and wants. Focus on covering essential expenses and consider reducing discretionary spending to manage your finances more effectively. Leverage Government Benefits Review all of the government-mandated benefits available to Australian mothers, such as Parental Leave Pay, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, and the Family Tax Benefit. These benefits can offer supplementary financial support during this period. You must consult Services Australia and the Department of Health and Aged Care to determine which assistance benefits apply to you. Open Dialogue with Creditors If you have existing debts, like credit card balances or loans, consider engaging in discussions with creditors to establish more manageable repayment terms during your maternity leave. Save During Pregnancy If possible, allocate a portion of your income during your pregnancy to create a financial cushion for the months of reduced income. In that aspect, that saving can be angled into some investment for the child: writing for Money Magazine, Michelle Ives said if there’s some disposable cash, you can build an investment portfolio with your child as the trustee, then turn it over to them when they turn 18.  Stay Informed Keep yourself informed about your workplace rights, including entitlements to maternity leave, flexible work arrangements, and options for gradually resuming work. Explore Flexible Work Options If your skillset permits, explore opportunities for freelance work or remote employment during your maternity leave. This could supplement your income while allowing you to spend quality time with your baby. According to current rules in Australia, employed mothers can even arrange work-from-home for up to 52 weeks’ unpaid leave or 20 weeks’ PLP. Conclusion Maternity leave is a precious time to bond with your newborn, but it also presents financial challenges. By understanding your benefits, devising a budget, and planning for the financial adjustments that parenthood brings, you can ensure a smoother transition into this new phase of life. Remember, maintaining open communication with your partner and seeking financial advice if necessary can provide additional support and guidance throughout this journey. With thoughtful planning and adept financial management, you can navigate maternity leave while providing the best for your growing family. DISCLAIMER:  This article is for informational purposes only. 2 Ezi has no relationships with any government agency or individual mentioned.

In today’s competitive academic scene, parents opt for private tutoring for kids to secure their academic success. Discover why it’s gaining popularity. When it comes to today’s competitive academic landscape, parents constantly seek ways to provide the best possible opportunities for their children’s classroom success. As a result, the private tutoring industry in Australia has witnessed remarkable growth over the years. Many parents are choosing to invest in private tutoring to ensure their children’s academic advancement and overall learning experience. In this article, we will explore the reasons why parents are turning to private tutors, the benefits they offer, as well as the potential drawbacks of hiring a private tutor for your child. Private Tutoring Private tutoring is a booming industry in Australia, driven by the desire to excel academically and secure a brighter future for children. The modern education system often comes with its challenges – from larger class sizes to a diverse range of learning abilities within a single classroom. These challenges can hinder a student’s progress, making it difficult for teachers to provide personalised attention to each student. As a hint of the size of the Aussie tutoring industry, figures compiled by GitNux noted that as of 2020, the industry was worth $1.2 billion a year – some observers peg that size at $1.3 billion. Australian Tutoring Association CEO Mohan Dhall said to the Australian Financial Review’s Theo Friedman that there’s an estimated 4,000 tutoring companies in the country, with over 70,000 full-time and part-time tutors on the rolls.  However, some of that market might be utilised abroad in some form or fashion. British-Aussie Jerome Barty-Taylor, for example, has used his ANU and Oxford education to run a tutoring business in Hong Kong, catering to upper-class families whose children are aiming to study at top universities in America. A May 2023 story on SBS Online covered how China’s crackdown on after-school tutoring providers forced them to pivot to mentoring students abroad to remain in business, with one company offering online mathematics classes to Aussie Year 1-8 students. Hiring a Private Tutor Below are several reasons why parents opt for private tutors in Australia. Personalised Learning Private tutors offer individualised attention to students, tailoring their teaching methods to match the student’s learning style, strengths, and weaknesses. This personalised approach can lead to more effective learning and faster progress. Addressing Knowledge Gaps Private tutors can identify and address specific knowledge gaps that students may have missed in their regular classroom setting. This targeted approach can help students build a solid foundation in their subjects. Exam Preparation Private tutors offer tailored instruction and preparation specifically designed to support students aiming for crucial exams, such as the Higher School Certificate (HSC) and the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR). This can significantly enhance a student’s chances of performing well in these critical assessments. Some tutor firms in Australia are even geared towards offering HSC and ATAR sessions. Boosting Confidence Individualised attention and focused support from a private tutor can boost a student’s confidence and self-esteem. As they see improvement in their academic performance, they become more motivated to learn and excel. Some tutors may even go as far as impart valuable study skills and strategies that can benefit them throughout their academic journey. Flexible Learning Private tutoring offers flexibility in terms of scheduling. Tutors can adapt to a student’s timetable, making it easier to balance academics with extracurricular activities. Targeted Learning Goals Private tutors can work with students to set specific learning goals and track their progress over time. This goal-oriented approach ensures that students stay on track and experience a sense of achievement. Drawbacks? Enlisting a private tutor for your child may offer a panoply of advantages in preparing them for higher schooling, but you might ask, are there factors against hiring one? Cost Private tutoring can be expensive, adding to the already significant expenses associated with education in Australia. Dhall notes that on average, part-time tutors can earn up to $30 an hour and certain tutors catering to wealthy families might even command $200 an hour. Demographics can even apply to the cost: the team at TutorNova estimated that the rates of medium-level tutors with modest qualifications working in urban centres may be premium rates in regional Australia. For example, a tutor of that calibre working in Kalgoorlie, WA may charge $65 an hour when at best, they could only fetch $50 for clients in the Sydney CBD. Dependency Students might become overly reliant on their tutors, hindering their ability to develop independent study skills. Pressure Intense focus on academic improvement can sometimes lead to excessive stress and pressure on students to perform exceptionally well. Lack of Compatibility Not all tutors may be a good match for a student’s learning style or personality, leading to potential conflicts and ineffective lessons. At the same time, if a parent in Australia opts to enlist a tutoring service abroad, questions about the quality of the lessons may arise; commenting on the above SBS story, UTS Assoc Prof Christina Ho said international tutors might have lesson plans that are all but incompatible with the Australian Curriculum. Time Management Balancing school, extracurricular activities, and tutoring sessions can lead to a packed schedule, potentially affecting the student’s overall well-being. Conclusion Investing in private tutoring is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. Parents should assess their child’s specific needs, learning style, and goals before opting for private tutelage. It’s essential to research potential tutors thoroughly, considering their qualifications, teaching approach, and compatibility with the student. While private tutoring can provide numerous benefits, it’s equally important to strike a balance and avoid overwhelming the student. Encouraging them to take ownership of their learning journey while leveraging the support of a tutor can lead to a more well-rounded educational experience. In conclusion, the private tutoring industry in Australia offers a valuable solution for parents seeking to provide their children with personalised support and academic advancement. While there are both advantages and disadvantages to hiring a private tutor, a

Property ownership is a significant investment; what if it becomes necessary to renovate or rebuild? Some property experts say that to consider a knockdown and rebuild (KDR) requires a bit of due diligence. For starters, you must consult your local council’s construction planning laws to verify the status of your property. If the place has any historic significance and is properly listed on a register, it cannot be torn down and only a renovation may be carried out. A sewer/drainage plan listed in the original purchase contract for the property, plus council records, may also determine its age.  A council evaluation of your property’s block will also add more information. For instance, knockdowns and rebuilds of houses on flat blocks are easier to accomplish than those on sloped blocks. If there’s vegetation or trees that must be displaced for the project, that will require a separate permit, in addition to contractor fees for tree removal. Account for the property’s boundaries and other factors such as orientation when planning your chosen project with a contractor.    Your due diligence for either a renovation or rebuilding must account for the market conditions in your area to determine the average property value; associated information for this can be gleaned through a property agent who is licensed to operate in the area. If for example, your existing suburb has lower property values, a renovation of modest value may be an attractive option. If you are planning to renovate or rebuild, the following are some points to consider. Renovation Pros A home renovation can increase the property value, especially in the case of the kitchen and bathroom, which several property appraisers attest as reaping the most value for the place. Renovating the property gives you a chance to style it according to your preferences, given much thought in the interior design. The property can also deserve an upgrade in aesthetics. A renovation may work when you’re looking for lifestyle changes, such as downsizing or your family is growing in size. If the budget is properly managed and the project is completed on schedule, the final cost may be cheaper than buying a new property. Some studies estimate the average cost of a property renovation in Australia to range between $2,500 per square metre to as high as $4,000.  Cons The biggest setback to a renovation is the danger of overcapitalising. In this sense, you may spend a lot more money on the project, but a subsequent assessment reveals that the property value may not change – at worst, it may even go down. If you spent too much money on a renovation, some experts contend that it may help render the property unattractive to buyers. For example, a house with a one-of-a-kind renovated bathroom or kitchen made for a high cost might clash with the other areas of the property, let alone other houses in your neighbourhood.  For health and safety purposes, you may be forced to live elsewhere for the duration of the project, whether to move in with relatives or settle in a rental property. If you know some friends who also had their entire properties renovated, they may suggest the same thing, as sawdust or paint fumes are health hazards. Depending on the project timetable, you need to properly manage the assignment of tradespeople. Rebuild Pros A knockdown and rebuild project is often seen as a chance to start over on the property, especially if the existing house has been evaluated and determined that it is structurally unsound, due to factors such as age and condition. Given the possibly decrepit shape of the property, a full rebuild may save you time and money that would have been otherwise spent on a potentially unsuccessful renovation. It may also give you the opportunity to have the resultant house designed according to your specifications, even more if you closely consult with a noted architect and contractor on the project. In an age of environmental sustainability, a KDR property built with modern, “green” materials may be attractive to property investors looking for more comfortable living.  Building a new house on the lot can help bring up the property resale value. It may also ease up your maintenance expenses; some homeowners who now live in rebuilt properties claim they had a smoother time with maintenance as opposed to tedious work in their original properties.  For certain people, knocking down a property can be seen as a way to remove unpleasant memories, with the demolition of Jenny Curran’s old house depicted in the classic movie Forrest Gump as a sad example. On a bright side, some families consider KDRs as a way to reaffirm their ties to the local community, even more if they have lived in the area for years and have no plans to resettle elsewhere.  Cons A knockdown and rebuild can only be successful if the architect and homebuilder overseeing the project is of impeccable reputation and strong workmanship. A verified Master Builders licence in your state or territory is also critical; the absence of which may reflect in the final output of the project.  Any knockdown/build-up project should have the final approval of your local council. However, building up the documentation and submitting it to the council for clearance may take some time. A reputable homebuilder may help you navigate the process.  If you have committed to a knockdown and rebuild, one consequence of it is you have to resettle elsewhere, such as renting another property or to ask friends or family to take you in for the meantime. You must also plan to keep revisiting the property to check on the progress. Knockdown and rebuilds are usually known to be carried out between eight months to a year, so map out your timetable accordingly. Conclusion Whether you want to pursue a renovation or to start something new, the end result will be worth it. All you need is thorough funding and preparation.

Graduation may be the ultimate achievement of a desire to learn, and many students face the exciting yet daunting task of entering the job market. Choosing the right tertiary education or university course can significantly impact your career prospects in Australia. To increase the likelihood of finding a rewarding job after graduation, it’s crucial to consider courses that align with the country’s in-demand industries and sectors. In this blog post, we will explore ten notable college/university courses in Australia that offer optimal job employment prospects and their relevance to the economy. Nursing and Healthcare Australia’s ageing population and rising healthcare requirements have led to a continuous increase in demand for qualified healthcare professionals, particularly nurses. According to a 2021 dissertation by Dr. Ylona Chun Tie of James Cook University, there are currently over 400,000 nurses practising in Australia. Pursuing a degree in nursing or healthcare-related fields not only provides excellent job prospects but also plays a crucial role in supporting the country’s healthcare system. Similarly, Australian-educated nurses who choose to work domestically can compete effectively with immigrant nurses from countries such as the Philippines, the UK, and, surprisingly, New Zealand. RNZ reported instances where foreign-born nurses utilised their New Zealand licences as a pathway to employment in Australia. Information Technology (IT) The digital revolution has led to a surge in the demand for information technology (IT) professionals across various industries. IT graduates with skills in areas like software development, cybersecurity, data analysis, and artificial intelligence are highly sought after by employers in Australia. These professionals drive innovation and technological advancements, making them vital to the country’s economy. A report collated by The Australian warned that Australia will need up to one million workers with new digital skills over the next three years, as some current IT courses might be obsolete by then. At the same time, a joint report by the Tech Council of Australia, LinkedIn and Microsoft postulated that Aussie IT graduates may have a chance to further build up their skills and possibly arrest brain drain if they were able to work at American tech companies operating in Australia.  Engineering Australia’s infrastructure development and the need for sustainable solutions create a strong demand for engineers. Specialisations in civil, mechanical, electrical, and environmental engineering are particularly relevant as they contribute to the growth and progress of the nation’s infrastructure and industries. However, a significant challenge lies in training an adequate number of engineering graduates to address skill shortages. Dr. Maryam Raji from the University of Melbourne emphasised the importance of fostering stronger connections between students and the engineering profession. She cited a report by Engineers Australia which highlighted dwindling numbers of engineers across various disciplines. Data Science and Analytics The abundance of data generated in today’s world has led to a rising need for data scientists and analysts. These professionals are instrumental in deriving insights from data, enabling informed decision-making and improving business efficiency in a data-driven economy like Australia. One such example of data science graduates landing secure employment is CBA, which took in 75 data scientists who joined the bank’s technology graduate programme, and is now developing some of them to be “Grandmasters,” the most elite data science professionals using the Kaggle data science platform.  Education The education sector continues to provide consistent employment opportunities in Australia. Pursuing a career in education, whether as a teacher, lecturer, or education administrator, contributes to shaping future generations and supporting the country’s academic growth. That may be true as a Department of Education report from September 2023 recorded at least 3,000 of 9,000 various university teaching roles were filled as part of post-pandemic recovery efforts for the academe. Environmental Science and Sustainability As Australia places increasing emphasis on environmental conservation and sustainability, professionals in this field are highly valued. Graduates with expertise in environmental science, conservation biology, and sustainable development are crucial for preserving the country’s unique ecosystems and lowering its ecological footprint. Accounting and Finance The financial sector is a cornerstone of Australia’s economy. Graduates with qualifications in accounting, finance, or economics are in high demand in various industries, including banking, investment, and corporate finance. However, recent data suggests that the accounting profession is facing challenges in the economy. The Federal Treasury’s Working Future white paper from September 2023 lamented that 80 per cent of accountants who migrate to Australia ended up working in other industries instead due to skills alignment issues. Jobs and Skills Australia published a skills shortage list in October 2023 that identified tax accountants as one of 66 occupations that had a shortage in 2023 when they were plentiful in 2022.  Construction Management Australia’s robust construction industry needs skilled professionals to manage projects efficiently and sustainably. Graduates in construction management play a vital role in ensuring the successful execution of infrastructure and property development projects. A Study International report pegged construction manager openings to go up eight percent by 2031, with top Australian universities like UNSW and UniMelbourne offering Masters in Construction Management courses. Digital Marketing and Communications With the growth of online platforms and e-commerce, digital marketing and communications professionals are essential for businesses to thrive in the digital era. Graduates in this field help companies reach their target audiences and increase brand visibility in the highly competitive market. Renewable Energy and Engineering As Australia transitions towards renewable energy sources, professionals in renewable energy engineering and technology are in high demand. Graduates in this field contribute to reducing the country’s carbon footprint and achieving sustainability goals. Conclusion Selecting a tertiary education or university course with optimal job employment prospects is crucial for starting a successful career in Australia. Courses in nursing and healthcare, information technology, engineering, data science and analytics, education, environmental science, accounting and finance, construction management, digital marketing and communications, and renewable energy and engineering are notably in demand. These courses align with Australia’s evolving economic landscape, providing graduates with excellent career opportunities while making meaningful contributions to the nation’s development and progress.  By choosing wisely, graduates can embark on a rewarding

Property auctions are a common and often fast-paced way to purchase real estate in Australia. For both experienced investors and first-time homebuyers, successfully bidding on a property at auction can be a challenging yet rewarding endeavour. In this article, we will explore valuable tips to help you increase your chances of winning the bid at your next Australian property auction. How to Win at Property Auctions Here are some cardinal steps to ensure you have a fighting chance to win your dream property. Do Your Homework Before you even think about raising your paddle at an auction, it’s essential to research the property thoroughly. Understand the local market conditions, the property’s history, and its estimated value. This knowledge will help you set a realistic budget and avoid overbidding. Before you ever register to attend, check your state or territory laws on auction registrations.    Set a Budget and Stick to It Auctions can be emotionally-charged events, and it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the bidding process. To prevent overstretching your finances, set a firm budget before attending the auction and stick to it; you may have to limit how many times to place a realistic bid in any auction – and stop if somebody trumps your last bid. This will help you avoid financial stress in the long run plus the spectre of a bidding war.  In this regard, overbidding is a nightmare scenario no Aussie property bidder wants to get caught in. Mozo’s Evlin DuBose stated that you will breach the sale contract if you won but could not pay the deposit then and there. They can even keep your deposit if you paid in full on the spot but did not have financing ready. Worse, your ties with the agent and a lender may be soured, and lead to you being possibly red flagged from bidding in future auctions.    Get Pre-Approval for Financing To demonstrate your seriousness as a buyer, obtain pre-approval for your mortgage or financing. Pre-approval not only provides you with a clear budget but also makes you a more attractive candidate to sellers. Attend Other Auctions as Practice If you’re new to property auctions, consider attending a few as a spectator to get a feel for the process. Observing how auctions unfold and understanding bidding dynamics can boost your confidence when it’s time to bid on your desired property. Even if you see some familiar faces on the ground, Seb James of the Hunter James agency recommends not approaching anybody to feel out their game plan; you may need a vantage point to monitor everybody for possible tells. Apollo Auctions director Justin Nickerson added that an attendee might not bid anymore if they simply stopped raising paddles. Arrive Early and Inspect Thoroughly Arriving early allows you to inspect the property one last time and ensure you’re still interested in it. Pay attention to any last-minute changes or disclosures made by the auctioneer, as this information can be crucial. Engage an Experienced Buyer’s Agent Consider hiring a buyer’s agent, especially if you’re new to the property market or auctions. A skilled agent can provide invaluable advice, handle negotiations on your behalf, and increase your chances of success. In discussions with the Australian Financial Review’s Lucy Dean, Sydney buyer’s agent Kellie Landrey said a buyer attending an auction should talk with the presiding agent and discuss how many people are coming there and which of them have ever downloaded building reports and strata materials. Such queries and analyses may hint to the agent you are serious about bidding.  Bid with Confidence When it’s time to bid, do so confidently. Don’t be timid or hesitate, as this can make you appear less competitive. However, avoid getting caught in a rapid-fire bidding war; stick to your budget and bid strategically. In a number of cases, your attire may carry that confidence – property agent Greg Brydon of Ray White Cheltenham said to the Herald Sun’s Nathan Mawby that a power suit or a classy shirt may tip to other bidders that you have funds to consider making a substantial offer.  Use Odd Numbers for Bidding In many cultures, even numbers save number 8 are associated with bad luck. Using odd numbers for your bids can make you appear more determined and can sometimes catch your competitors off guard.  Understand the Vendor’s Terms Familiarise yourself with the vendor’s terms and conditions for the auction. This includes any specific payment requirements, settlement dates, and any potential contingencies. Being well-prepared will help you make informed decisions during the bidding process. Stay Calm and Avoid Emotional Bidding Perhaps the most crucial tip of all is to stay calm and composed. Emotions can lead to irrational decisions and overbidding. If the bidding surpasses your budget, have the discipline to walk away. There will always be other opportunities in the property market. Why Buy Property at Auction? Investing in Australian properties through auctions offers several advantages. Auctions are transparent processes where you can see competing bids in real-time. The presiding agent may also keep their distance from the bidders to ensure everybody is heard and nobody will make sly offers. This transparency ensures fairness and allows you to make informed decisions. Auctions typically have a fixed timeframe, which means you can secure a property quickly without the prolonged negotiation process often associated with private sales. In many cases,  Aussie house hunters might be spared the long drives around a neighbourhood probing for properties with “FOR SALE” signs by simply getting wind of auctions to register. Bidding at auction can sometimes lead to acquiring a property at a more competitive price compared to a negotiated sale. When you win at auction, the sale is generally unconditional, reducing the likelihood of a seller pulling out of the deal. It is still important that you have enough money to make the deposit on the spot with the pre-approval finance in place. Auctions feature a diverse range of properties, from residential homes to commercial real estate,

Australia, known for its vast and fertile lands, has a strong agricultural sector that contributes significantly to its economy. Traditionally, investing in agriculture often involved buying and managing a farm. However, modern times have brought forth alternative avenues for individuals interested in agricultural investments without the need to become hands-on farmers. In this article, we will explore the feasibility of investing in Australia’s agriculture sector without owning a farm, focusing on agricultural property funds and the crops prospective investors can consider. Investing in Agriculture Investing in agriculture has traditionally been a hands-on endeavour, involving the purchase and management of farmland. While this approach can be lucrative, it also requires substantial knowledge, time, and capital. Fortunately, advancements in financial markets and investment strategies have opened up new opportunities for those who want to be a part of the agricultural industry without being farmers themselves. Investing in agriculture can provide financial security in several ways: Investing in Australian agriculture goes beyond financial returns; it also plays a vital role in ensuring food security, with demand increasing alongside the global population size. Australia, with its abundant agricultural resources, can play a crucial role in meeting this demand. Investors who choose to invest in agriculture, whether through property funds or crop production, contribute to the stability and sustainability of the country’s food supply. Moreover, they align their investments with the broader goals of ensuring food security not only for Australia but also for the global community. Agricultural Property Funds One of the most accessible ways to invest in Australian agriculture without owning a farm is through agricultural property funds. These funds pool together capital from multiple investors to acquire and manage agricultural properties. The following are some key points to consider. Diversification Agricultural property funds typically invest in a variety of agricultural assets, including farmland, orchards, vineyards, and more. This diversification helps spread risk, making it a safer investment option. Professional Management These funds are managed by experts in the agricultural industry who have the knowledge and experience to make informed decisions about crop selection, land management, and other critical aspects. Passive Income Investors in agricultural property funds can earn passive income through the rental or sale of agricultural assets. This income stream can provide a steady return on investment. Limited Exposure to Farming Risks Unlike owning a farm, where the owner is directly responsible for all aspects of farming, investors in agricultural property funds have limited exposure to operational and market risks. Liquidity Agricultural property funds offer a level of liquidity that owning farmland does not. Investors can typically buy and sell their shares in the fund, providing flexibility. Which Crops to Consider for Investment If you’re interested in investing in crops directly, several options are well-suited to the Australian climate and market conditions. These are some of the crops prospective investors can consider, including updates to the associated industry in Australia: Wheat Wheat is a staple crop in Australia, currently one of the world’s largest wheat exporters. Investing in wheat production can be profitable due to strong global demand, but after some challenges Down Under. The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences reported in late 2023 that after three years of record output, wheat production for summer 2023-2024 is projected to go down 27 per cent to 3.8m tonnes and the winter crop is estimated at 46m tonnes – a 33 per cent drop. WA, in particular, estimates its output to be down six per cent but a considerable bulk of it is of premium quality, not to mention it is well-known for shipping big stocks to noodle producers in Indonesia.   Barley Barley is another major Australian crop, used in various industries, including brewing and animal feed. At around 9m metric tonnes produced every year as estimated by Grains Australia, It’s a resilient and versatile crop that can be a good investment. On the Australian front, local growers may be in for some resurgence after China ended three years of tariffs in August 2023, allowing barley growers to start selling to the mainland. Wine Grapes Australia is renowned for its wine production. Investing in wine grape vineyards can be profitable, especially in regions like the Barossa Valley or Margaret River. However, a drop in experts now leave Aussie wine growers with excess supply and few markets to penetrate, with South Korea as a prospect. The federal government is also seeking to lower the industry’s carbon emissions output, with Wine Australia building an Emissions Reduction Roadmap to reduce it by as much as 40 per cent by 2030.    Citrus Fruits Oranges, lemons, and other citrus fruits are in high demand both domestically and internationally. Investing in citrus orchards can provide a consistent income stream. Australia’s citrus industry had some ups and downs though in 2023. In September 2023, some growers in Murrumbidgee, NSW, lamented they are having problems making output for short-term Valencia orange contracts due to high manufacturing costs, which Citrus Australia attributed to supply chain issues due to the pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war. The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) also recently entertained applications for a new alternative-assurance model for citrus packhouses and growers.   Almonds Almond farming has gained popularity in Australia due to growing global demand for this nutritious nut. It’s a high-value crop with the potential for good returns. The local almond industry had a problematic year in 2023 with low output, but is estimated to bounce back this year with a projected 28 per cent higher yield to 140,000 metric tonnes. The Almond Board of Australia also put in $6.2m for the Almond Centre of Excellence, with the goal to devise new methods to bring production practices for Australian growers to international standards.  Avocados Avocados are another crop with increasing popularity and strong demand, especially in health food options. They thrive in certain Australian regions and can be a profitable investment.  For the local avocado sector, Avocados Australia CEO John Tyas said the current weather conditions in Australia have been a boon to