The Money Doctors

Retirement is one of the most significant transitions in a professional career, yet it is often delayed or under-planned. The Bongiorno Groups Jim Tsirtsakis and Trevor Baxter explore what retirement truly means — beyond simply stepping away from work. They discuss the importance of defining purpose and lifestyle goals, aligning business exit strategies with personal objectives, and ensuring financial independence is sustainable over the long term.  The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria and the Victorian & Tasmanian Regional Alliance Partner of the Australian Orthopaedic Association.  For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/   This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A clear investment plan begins long before any money enters the market. New investors who define their goals, diversify effectively and stay disciplined through market shifts give themselves the strongest foundation for long-term success. Beatrice Yeo, Investment Strategist for the Multi-Asset Solutions Business at BlackRock, outlines the essential principles every first-time investor should understand.  She explains why goal-setting matters, how diversification has evolved in today’s market environment and why managing costs and maintaining discipline are critical. Beatrice also discusses the role of multi-asset portfolios, the growing influence of technology and AI in portfolio construction and some of the common mistakes to avoid when beginning an investment journey.  BlackRock https://www.blackrock.com/au  The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria and the Victorian & Tasmanian Regional Alliance Partner of the Australian Orthopaedic Association.   For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/   This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Everyone at the Bongiorno Group would like to wish you a joyful Christmas and a successful start to 2026. As the festive and summer period rolls around, The Money Doctors will be taking a brief seasonal pause — but we won’t be away for long. We return on January 13 with our first episode of 2026. Until then, enjoy the break, stay safe, and from all of us at the Bongiorno Group — Merry Christmas and a very happy New Year.  The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria and the Victorian & Tasmanian Regional Alliance Partner of the Australian Orthopaedic Association.  For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/ This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Social media has become one of the most effective ways for medical professionals to build trust, visibility and genuine connection – when it’s used with intention and care. Family lawyer Vic Rajah shares how the landscape has shifted from traditional media to digital platforms, and why clinicians should view themselves as a brand.  Vic explains how different demographics use Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn, and why authenticity matters more than polished perfection. He also outlines the legal and ethical guardrails, while highlighting how thoughtful content can humanise a practice and support patient confidence.  Vic Rajah Family Lawyers https://www.vicrajah.com.au/  The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria and the Victorian & Tasmanian Regional Alliance Partner of the Australian Orthopaedic Association.  For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/  This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Higher uncertainty and greater volatility may define the current investment market, but this environment also presents meaningful opportunities for informed investors. Beatrice Yeo, Investment Strategist for the Multi-Asset Solutions Business at BlackRock, explains why long-term structural “megaforces” such as artificial intelligence, geopolitical fragmentation and demographic divergence provide a clearer guide than short-term headlines.  Beatrice outlines to Vanessa Smith, Director at the Bongiorno Group, how BlackRock is positioning across regions and asset classes – dialling exposures to the US, favouring emerging markets, maintaining gold as a strategic hedge and incorporating inflation-linked bonds for protection.  BlackRock https://www.blackrock.com/au The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria and the Victorian & Tasmanian Regional Alliance Partner of the Australian Orthopaedic Association.  For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/  This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Blended families are increasingly common in Australia, but they can make estate planning complex. Without a clear will or structure in place, questions of inheritance can quickly lead to conflict. Family lawyer Vic Rajah discusses with the Bongiorno Group’s Chantelle Turner how blended families can plan effectively using wills, testamentary trusts, and neutral executors. He explains the importance of updating documents, securing insurance, and protecting loved ones — ensuring that when life changes, your legacy and family harmony remain secure.  Vic Rajah Family Lawyers https://www.vicrajah.com.au/  The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria and the Victorian & Tasmanian Regional Alliance Partner of the Australian Orthopaedic Association.   For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/   This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Strong leadership in medicine requires both clinical insight and a passion for advocacy — and Simon Judkins brings both to his new role as President of AMA Victoria.  In this episode, the Bongiorno Group’s Executive Consultant Trevor Baxter speaks with Dr Simon Judkins, Director of Emergency Medicine at Echuca Regional Health and a respected voice in healthcare reform. With a career spanning frontline emergency care, leadership at Austin Health, and presidency of the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine, Simon shares what motivated him to lead AMA Victoria.  He discusses the pressing issues facing Victorian doctors today — from workforce burnout to fractured hospital systems — and outlines AMA Victoria’s priorities, including advocacy, member engagement, and driving systemic improvements across regional and metropolitan healthcare services.  AMA Victoria: https://amavic.com.au/  The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria and the Victorian & Tasmanian Regional Alliance Partner of the Australian Orthopaedic Association. For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/   This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Serving on a board offers medical professionals a unique way to extend their expertise beyond clinical practice, contribute to the community, and broaden their leadership skills. But with the opportunity comes responsibility. Directors are entrusted with governance, strategy, and risk oversight, often in complex and sensitive environments.  Lawyer and experienced board chair Vic Rajah explains to the Bongiorno’s Group’s Chantelle Turner what’s really involved in board service, from the time commitment to the legal obligations and potential liabilities. Drawing on his roles with Best Chance, a large not-for-profit supporting children and families, and other community organisations, Vic outlines the rewards, risks, and considerations for doctors seeking to take on this vital role. Vic Rajah Family Lawyers https://www.vicrajah.com.au/  The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria and the Victorian & Tasmanian Regional Alliance Partner of the Australian Orthoapedic Association.  For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/    This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Having an up-to-date will is essential – but understanding whether to include a testamentary trust can be just as important. These trusts can offer asset protection, oversight for vulnerable beneficiaries, and potential tax benefits, but they also bring complexity and ongoing costs that may not suit every family.  To unpack this further, Ricky Caldow, Director at the Bongiorno Group, speaks with Jackson Barrett of Barrett & Co Legal. They also discuss the risks of dying without a will: loss of control, costly disputes, and outcomes very different from what you intended.  Barrett + Co Legal  https://barrettcolegal.com.au/  The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria.  For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/   This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A will is one of the most important documents a person can have – but it’s often overlooked until it’s too late. If you have assets, a family, or even a single property, you should already have one.  Ricky Caldow, Director at the Bongiorno Group, is joined by Jackson Barrett, founder and principal lawyer at Barrett + Co Legal, who explains the essentials of will-making: who an executor is, why beneficiaries should ideally be named specifically, and why certain assets – a like superannuation or property held in companies – aren’t automatically covered.  He breaks down the legal nuances, like when to update your will, the risks of ambiguous clauses, and how disputes between family members can arise, even when intentions are clear. Jackson also discusses duties of executors, how joint executors work, and potential tax and stamp duty consequences when deviating from what a will states.  Barrett + Co Legal https://barrettcolegal.com.au/  The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria.  For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/   This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Having income protection in place is one thing—knowing it will deliver when you need it most is another. The Bongiorno Group’s Ricky Caldow and Mitch McKeown return to discuss a real-life income protection claim involving one of their medical clients. The case highlights the critical role insurance plays in supporting professionals through serious health challenges. They walk through the claims process, the types of benefits that were triggered, and the financial relief it provided during a time of great uncertainty.  The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria.  For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/   This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if your most important asset isn’t what you think it is? It’s not your house, your car, or even your investment portfolio. In this episode, we dive into the kind of asset that often gets overlooked – but losing it could change everything. Matthew Homewood, Financial Consultant, and Tom Will, Risk Adviser at The Bongiorno Group, reveal how doctors can protect what really matters, avoid common pitfalls, and build a safety net for the unexpected. Curious what that asset is? Tune in.  The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria.  For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/  This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Think you’re on top of your tax, but then get hit with a surprise bill? You’re not alone. The Bongiorno Group’s Chantelle Turner and Helen Cheng break down the mystery of PAYG instalments – what they are, who needs to pay them, and how to avoid the dreaded “catch-up” payment. Whether you’re a doctor with private billings or a sole trader with ABN income, understanding how the ATO calculates and collects tax throughout the year can save you heartache at tax time.  The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria.  For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/   This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While interest rates often steal the spotlight, it’s the structure, strategy and advice behind your home loan that can have the biggest long-term impact. The Bongiorno Group’s Financial Consultant Matt Homewood and Finance Manager Jack Will break down how banks determine your actual rate, what drives discounting, and why your loan setup matters more than simply aiming for an interest-rate discount. From offset accounts and investment structures to future income assessments, they explain how tailored lending strategies – especially for doctors – can boost flexibility, improve borrowing power and set you up for future success.  The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria. For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/  This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many Australians underestimate how quickly illness, disability, or death can derail their financial stability. Life insurance isn’t just about protecting loved ones – it’s about protecting income, assets, and lifestyle. Tom Will, Risk Adviser at the Bongiorno Group, discusses with Dr Jeff Scott, Head of Advice Strategy at MetLife Australia, who really needs life insurance and why. They explore the key types of cover – death, TPD, trauma, and income protection – and how each can support both personal and business needs. They also cover eligibility, tax considerations, and why self-insuring can be a risky fallback.    The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria.  For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/  This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While auction day gets all the attention, it’s the weeks beforehand – quiet strategy, early inspections, buyer conversations – that often determine the final result.  In this second of a two-part series on selling a home, the Bongiorno Group’s Ricky Caldow is joined by Marshall White real estate agent Ben Bongiorno to explore the key stages in the lead-up to auction.  A well-structured campaign, early buyer engagement, and open communication between agent and vendor are key to achieving the best possible outcome on auction day.  The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria.  For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/   This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make – and getting it right starts well before auction day. In this first of a two-part series, Bongiorno Group Director Ricky Caldow speaks with Marshall White real estate agent Ben Bongiorno about the essential steps vendors should take before putting a property on the market.  From selecting the right agent and agreeing on a marketing strategy, to preparing the home for inspections and understanding pricing tactics, Ben offers practical insights to help maximise your sale outcome. They also discuss common vendor mistakes, market timing, and how small presentation tweaks can influence buyer perception.  The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria.  For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/   This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With recent changes to how locum roles are structured, including a shift toward casual employment arrangements, it’s more important than ever to understand when and why you might need an ABN – that is, an Australian Business Number. The Bongiorno Group’s Matt Homewood and Ricky Caldow discuss the implications for tax, superannuation, GST, and business activity statements, as well as the pros and cons of working as a contractor versus an employee. Whether you’re planning a career in private practice or simply weighing up your locum options, it’s important to understand your options to make informed decisions about your professional and financial future.  The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria.  For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/  This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In part two of this series on buying property, we explore the ins and outs of purchasing at auction. Marshall White’s Ben Bongiorno explains to the Bongiorno Group’s Nick Fennessy what makes auctions legally binding, the critical differences between conditional and unconditional offers, and the often-misunderstood three-day window around auction day.  Ben also unpacks what happens when a property is passed in, how negotiations unfold behind closed doors, and why vendor expectations play such a crucial role. For buyers, understanding these steps can be the difference between securing your dream home and making a costly misstep. The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria. For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/  This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Successful property buying isn’t just about browsing online listings – it’s about building relationships with agents who can connect you with opportunities you won’t find advertised. Marshall White real estate agent Ben Bongiorno joins Nick Fennessy, Director at the Bongiorno Group, explore how buyers can navigate the property market more effectively.  In this first of two-episode series, Ben shares his unique perspective on the property market, drawing on his experience advising medical professionals and now helping clients buy and sell property in one of Melbourne’s most competitive regions.  The more specific and transparent you are with your criteria, the better an agent can help you secure the right property, sometimes even before it hits the market.  The Money Doctors is proudly brought to you by leading financial services organisation the Bongiorno Group, the preferred tax and accounting partner for the Australian Medical Association Victoria.  For more information, please call 03 9863 3111 or visit https://bongiorno.com.au/  This general advice has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of this advice before acting on it. If this general advice relates to acquiring a financial product, you should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement before deciding to acquire the product.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.