Blue Tree Financial PlanningBlue Tree Financial PlanningRetirement Planning
A common question that we are asked is how much will I need when I retire? What amount will I need in my superannuation when I retire and how much income will I be able to live on? These are all complicated questions that require a personalised strategy.
Retirement planning gives you the chance to prepare for your future with confidence.
At Blue Tree Financial Planning, we provide you with financial advice regarding the retirement process, whether you’re only starting to think about retiring, beginning retirement, or already there. Our team understands the strategies that will work for you to meet your financial needs in retirement.
Preparing for retirement often feels easier if you have reliable retirement advice from an expert. Our team can assist you with understanding your current savings situation. After we review your current retirement plans, we can help you:
We use our investment experience to work with you to establish a retirement plan that meets all your needs. You should be able to enjoy your retirement without worrying about finances. Let us step in to handle retirement planning for you.
When you retire, how you put your investment portfolio together is more important than ever if you want your retirement savings to last as long as you do.
Your investments need to not only keep pace with inflation, they also need to grow to pay for your lifestyle and to be protected from investment risk.
Balancing all these competing requirements can be tricky. One solution is a retirement bucket strategy. This approach establishes different ‘buckets’ or accounts for different types of spending and investing over the entire period of your retirement.
The bucket approach to managing retirement portfolios was pioneered by US financial planning guru Harold Evensky in 1985.
Bucket strategies are designed to balance the need for income stability and capital growth in retirement. The aim is to make your money last, while still giving you the flexibility to make a lump sum withdrawal for expenses like holidays or home renovations.
Although there are several ways to use the bucket concept, the most common is a three-bucket strategy.
The approach is popular with many retirees because it eliminates the risk of having to sell your investments when the market is down to pay for regular living expenses. Its popularity has seen some industry super funds begin offering super pensions based on the strategy.
How does the strategy work? The bucket approach divides your retirement into different phases, with a separate account established to meet your financial needs as you age.
A three-bucket retirement strategy, for example, divides your retirement savings into three accounts (short, medium and long-term), each of which has a different role.
Retiring represents a major milestone for many people. You start a new chapter of your life where you can explore your interests and embrace a new lifestyle. We help with the transition to retirement by assisting with your financial planning.
Our team takes steps to protect you against financial risk while helping you get the most out of your returns. We can find ways to diversify your portfolio, which often allows you to meet the goals you set for your retirement.
Additionally, we can adjust your retirement plan to meet your lifestyle and needs. Our team doesn’t believe in a one-size-fits-all retirement plan. Instead, we work with you to develop a strategy that addresses your goals and how to meet them.
Your Super provides a large percentage of retirement savings for many people in Brisbane and around Australia. We understand how to handle these funds on your behalf. You might have multiple funds if you worked more than one job. Our team can track down all your funds and help you to merge them before retirement.
Understanding what you should do with your superannuation funds can be a complicated and difficult process to navigate by yourself. When moving or changing your superannutoin funds you want to have confidence that you are making the right choice. We can take away all of the confusion and help to make sure that you are on track for your retirement.
It’s important to start thinking about your future. You can count on our team at Blue Tree Financial Planning to put you first. Book in for a discovery call here to go over the options you have to save money for your retirement years. We’re here to provide you with personalised attention now.
The information contained on this website has been provided as general advice only. The contents have been prepared without taking account of your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. You should, before you make any decision regarding any information, strategies mentioned on this website, consult a financial advisor to consider whether it is appropriate for your objectives, financial situation and needs.
“We understand that everyone is unique. That’s why we take the time to understand your financial goals and it all starts with a conversation…”
Matt has spent 20 years in the financial services industry, including the last 12 years as a financial planner. As the Founder and Principal Adviser of Blue Tree Financial Planning, he works closely with a select group of clients, specialising in tax strategies, retirement planning, investments, and superannuation. His focus is on delivering clear, practical advice that gives clients confidence in their financial decisions.
Matt holds a Master of Financial Planning from Griffith University, where he was recognised with an award for academic excellence. He is a member of the Financial Advice Association Australia and has specialist accreditation in Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSFs) and Margin Lending. Beyond advising, he contributes to the profession by teaching at Griffith University, supporting the next generation of financial planners.
What clients value most is Matt’s ability to make finance feel simple and the confidence that comes from a relationship built on trust and genuine care
Paraplanning Manager
Vaibhav is the Paraplanning Manager at Blue Tree Financial planning. He has been working and studying in finance since 2013. He holds a Bachelor of Computer Applications and completed his Postgraduate Degree in Master of Business Administration and Applied Finance in 2019. Vaibhav also has a Diploma of Financial Planning, Advanced Diploma of Paraplanning and has specialist accreditation in Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSF).
Since starting with Blue Tree Financial Planning, Vaibhav has been working on plan development, financial modelling, delivery and ongoing SMART review processes behind our strategy services. He provides quality, compliant and timely advice documents
Team Manager
Neha is the Team Manager at Blue Tree Financial Planning. She has been working and studying in finance since 2012. She has a Bachelor of Commerce with honours in Electronic Commerce and has completed her Graduate Degree in Commerce.
Neha also has a Diploma of Financial Planning, Advanced Diploma of Paraplanning and has specialist accreditation in Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSF).
Since starting with Blue Tree Financial Planning Neha has been able to help streamline administrative processes and focus on client research and implementation. She also provides technical leadership to teammates through training and oversees day to day operations of the team.
Client Services Manager
Desiree has worked in the financial services industry for over 20 years and is a valued Client Services Manager at Blue Tree Financial Planning. She now works across the holistic advice side of the business, supporting our ongoing clients through their annual reviews and implementing advice to keep them on track in retirement.
Known for her genuine compassion and attention to detail, Desiree takes the time to understand each client's evolving needs and circumstances. She works closely with advisers to ensure recommendations are carried out smoothly and thoughtfully, giving clients confidence that their financial future is in good hands.
Senior Insurance Specialist
Kathy is the Senior Insurance Specialist at Blue Tree Financial Planning, she has been working in the Insurance industry for over 40 years. Kathy works closely with our clients to ensure they are supported, especially in times of need.
Kathy helps our clients with claim requests, insurance adjustments, annual renewals and is passionate about getting the best outcomes for our clients.
Client Services Manager, Risk
Nathan brings over 20 years of experience in banking and finance to Blue Tree Financial Planning, specialising in the risk space. His focus is on proactively reaching out to clients to review their insurance arrangements, ensuring they have the right level of cover in place and feel genuinely protected as their circumstances evolve.
Nathan's approachable nature and attention to detail mean clients can feel confident that their protection needs are being looked after, giving them peace of mind that what matters most is well covered.
Client Services Manager – Risk
Christine brings over 20 years’ experience in the financial services industry and is a Client Services Manager at Blue Tree Financial Planning, specialising in risk. With a strong focus on efficiency and precision, Christine ensures risk strategies are implemented seamlessly and without unnecessary complexity.
She is highly organised and outcomes-driven, always focused on delivering timely, accurate results for clients. Christine works closely with advisers and insurers to keep processes moving smoothly, helping clients feel supported, informed, and confident that their protection strategies are in place when they need them most.
Client Services Manager – Risk
Desiree has worked in the financial services industry for over 20 years and is a valued Client Services Manager at Blue Tree Financial Planning, specialising in risk. Her depth of experience allows her to navigate complex insurance and protection strategies with confidence and care.
Known for her genuine compassion and attention to detail, Desiree takes the time to understand each client’s situation and concerns. She works closely with advisers to ensure risk strategies are implemented smoothly and thoughtfully, giving clients peace of mind that what matters most to them is well protected.
Client Services Manager
Dominique Bonnici is a Client Services Manager with over 20 years of industry experience. She collaborates closely with our team to ensure the seamless implementation of customised solutions.
Dominique’s dedication to client service is evident in everything she does. From refining processes and enhancing client interactions to managing workflows, she is committed to providing the highest level of service. Her unwavering focus on client satisfaction and genuine concern for their well-being make her an indispensable part of our team.
Client Services Manager
Client Services Manager
Adrian is a member of our investment committee providing analysis and insights for our investment portfolios. He specialising in portfolio construction and asset allocation to deliver consistent strong investment outcomes. With a strong background across investment advice, regulatory compliance, and professional development, he brings a well-rounded skill set to his role at Blue Tree Financial Planning.
Adrian supports the team with research, compliance oversight, and training, helping to ensure our advice processes remain robust, well-informed, and aligned with regulatory standards. His hands-on advisory experience gives him a practical understanding of the challenges advisers face, allowing him to deliver compliance and training support that is relevant, effective, and grounded in real-world practice.
General Manager
Justine Long is the General Manager at Blue Tree Financial Planning, bringing over 15 years of experience in the finance industry. She leads with a coaching-focused leadership style, empowering both staff and team leaders to grow, collaborate, and deliver high-quality outcomes. Justine oversees firm-wide operations, strategic planning, and compliance, ensuring systems run efficiently and regulatory standards are consistently met.
Her role includes guiding internal processes, managing cross-functional teams, and producing high-level reporting and regulatory insights that support adviser performance and business growth. She plays a key role in mentoring leaders within the business, fostering a culture of accountability, development, and continuous improvement.
Insurance Adviser
Sue Clarke brings over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, specialising in providing comprehensive insurance advice to help individuals and families protect their futures. With a deep understanding of the complexities of insurance products, Sue is dedicated to ensuring her clients have the right coverage to safeguard their financial well-being.
Throughout her career, Sue has been committed to forming meaningful connections with her clients, empowering them to make informed decisions about their insurance needs. Her expertise spans life insurance, total permanent disablement, income protection, and trauma insurance, and she is known for her personalised approach and attention to detail.
Sue’s passion lies in helping people navigate the often-confusing world of insurance, providing clarity and peace of mind. Whether it’s protecting a family’s future or ensuring they have the right coverage, Sue’s guidance is always tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
“I believe in putting my clients first and making sure they feel confident and secure in their insurance choices. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that I’ve helped someone protect what matters most to them.”
Insurance Adviser
Tien has over a decade of experience in the financial planning industry and brings a depth of knowledge and expertise to the table. Having worked across all areas of financial planning, Tien’s journey has been marked by a relentless commitment to client success.
Specialising in life insurance, retirement planning, and investments, Tien’s passion lies in forming meaningful connections with clients and empowering them to achieve their financial aspirations.
Tien’s approach is grounded in transparency and empathy by truly listening to clients’ needs and understanding their unique circumstances to craft tailored solutions that align with their goals and aspirations.
Whether it’s safeguarding a family’s future through life insurance or charting a roadmap for retirement, Tien’s guidance is always personalised and attentive.
“I find great satisfaction in knowing that I have helped my clients and providing them with peace of mind that they’re being looked after”.
Senior Financial Adviser
Ross brings over 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, with a strong focus on providing clear, personalised advice that helps clients feel confident about their financial future. Since moving into financial planning in 2008, Ross has worked closely with individuals and families to guide them through every stage of life—from building wealth through to retirement and beyond.
Ross specialises in superannuation, retirement planning, investments, and personal insurance, with a holistic approach that ensures every aspect of a client’s financial position is considered. He is particularly passionate about aged care advice, an area shaped by his own personal experience, and is dedicated to helping clients and their families navigate what can often be a complex and emotional time.
With a background that includes both large institutions and client-focused advice environments, Ross is committed to delivering advice that is centred on people, not products. He takes the time to truly understand what matters most to his clients, building long-term relationships based on trust, transparency, and genuine care. Ross is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and continues to undertake ongoing professional development to ensure he remains at the forefront of industry knowledge and best practice.
“I believe good advice is about more than just numbers—it’s about understanding what’s important to you and helping you make confident decisions about your future.
Financial Planner
Neil is a highly experienced financial adviser with over 34 years in the financial services industry and a focus on financial planning since 1998. He provides comprehensive advice across all life stages—from early investment planning through to retirement and aged care strategies.
Neil has worked in both boutique and corporate financial planning environments, including QSuper’s financial planning arm. He has been an Authorised Representative since 2000 and is known for his expertise in Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSFs), Centrelink entitlements, and tailored retirement planning.
Neil holds a Bachelor of Business (Management) from QUT and a Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning from FINSIA, along with specialist accreditations in Margin Lending, SMSFs, and Listed Product Advice.
“I believe that great financial advice begins with understanding what truly matters to my clients. By building genuine relationships and taking the time to understand their goals, I can offer clear, practical guidance that empowers them to make confident decisions about their financial future.”
Financial Planner
Dan is originally from England and built a managerial and banking background in the UK before emigrating to Australia in 2009, where he now calls Queensland home.
Dan graduated from the University of Reading in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts and has continued his pursuit of knowledge; completing his Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning and specialist accreditations in both Margin Lending and Self-Managed Superannuation Funds.
Dan specialises in retirement planning, superannuation, investment, and personal insurance advice.
With over a decade of dedicated service in the Australian financial services industry, Dan possesses a wealth of experience and a passion for demystifying complex financial concepts.
“I believe that the key to high quality advice starts and ends with my clients. Taking the time and care to fully understand their family, finances and what is important to them allows us to build a trusted and genuine relationship. I can then leverage my skills and experience to guide my clients on their journey to their best financial future.”
Owner and Principal Advisor
Matt has spent 20 years in the financial services industry, including the last 12 years as a financial planner. As the Founder and Principal Adviser of Blue Tree Financial Planning, he works closely with a select group of clients, specialising in tax strategies, retirement planning, investments, and superannuation. His focus is on delivering clear, practical advice that gives clients confidence in their financial decisions.
Matt holds a Master of Financial Planning from Griffith University, where he was recognised with an award for academic excellence. He is a member of the Financial Advice Association Australia and has specialist accreditation in Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSFs) and Margin Lending. Beyond advising, he contributes to the profession by teaching at Griffith University, supporting the next generation of financial planners.
What clients value most is Matt’s ability to make finance feel simple and the confidence that comes from a relationship built on trust and genuine care