Financial Affairs

Navigating the complex process of placing our mentally alert but physically frail father in an aged care facility was daunting. Not only were there the emotional issues but there were the necessary government forms to complete with requisite information to be provided and the separate financial questions. Some financial questions were clear: should he sell his home? Rent it out? How to prevent him losing the pension? Should we pay the RAD or not? We did not possess the expertise to understand all the ramifications and fill in all the forms, much less be assured we made the best decisions for our widowed father. We acted on a recommendation and contacted David Page. Right from the start, David was impressive. He provided obligation free initial information about the type of advice available, costs and some basic information. Throughout the process he was friendly, professional and able to cover all the considerations in plain English. He visited my father in hospital to answer his questions and clarify matters. This reassurance meant a great deal to Dad. David was also in contact with the facility about the agreement, timings, etc making negotiations easy for us. Based on the clear factual comprehensive information provided, the right decision for Dad was clear and easy. All our questions were answered and very promptly, forms were completed for or with us, Dad has kept his pension, and investment alternatives for funds left over from his house sale were provided. One fee covered everything. With Davids high quality advice and help, we achieved our goals for Dad, and with minimal angst. During the process of selling Dads house and buying into his care facility, further questions arose. We contacted Sally Scopel in Davids absence on leave- there was no gap in continuum of service. We had questions about the agreement; for example, it wanted my sister and I to be guarantors. We rang Sally who checked the agreement from a financial angle and provided invaluable advice on several matters. We had queries about paying the RAD and interest on it as Dads settlement was a long one, Sally offered a viable alternative which we adopted. Like David, she was professional, friendly, understood where we were coming from, and provided very prompt and valuable advice and information. Help was a phone call away. We are extremely happy and confident in providing this testimonial for David Page and Sally Scopel.
Oct 13th, 2018

We asked Financial Affairs to develop a strategy for our fathers finances and estate planning. Of significant importance was to ensure that my sister, who has special requirements, was accommodated and financially protected for the future. The team at Financial Affairs came up with a diversified portfolio that included a Special Disability Trust (SDT) on behalf of my sister. The Trust itself was a fabulous recommendation and we were fortunate enough to qualify. All of the substantial documentation was managed by the Financial Affairs team who have the skills and experience to efficiently navigate government process and meet requirements. Financial Affairs saved considerable work and stress for the family and gave us confidence that the application was being made correctly with the highest chance of success. Our relationship with Financial Affairs is ongoing as we receive regular and tailored reporting, financial updates and advice, seamless connection to the Trust, preparation of tax returns and taxation matters, referrals to other professionals and regular phone and face-to-face communication. The overall benefits are an all-inclusive and comprehensive service which achieves excellent results.
Jul 11th, 2018