Record levels of women are retiring in poverty - the current figure is 1 in 6 in Australia. Should we be surprised when women earn less than men, shoulder the load when it comes to unpaid work at home, and take more and longer breaks from paid work to have children?
The difference between a rich woman and a poor woman is very often financial literacy. Australia has a superannuation system, the envy of many other countries in world, and most of us don't understand it. Super school doesn't exist. Financial literacy as a wider topic has been taught in high schools since 2015 but, somehow, the crucial subject of superannuation is left out of the mix.
Rich Woman, Poor Woman addresses this knowledge gap.
Superannuation is a lot like exercise. We know that exercise has long-term health benefits, but the couch and a glass of wine seem so much more attractive after a hard day! However, if you start to introduce exercise into your day, it becomes a habit and you soon see positive change. Now, apply this thinking to saving for your financial security through superannuation. When you contribute to super, you (momentarily) feel good that you're putting some money aside for your later years. You give yourself a high-five for your sensible long-term thinking. As you continue to see money diverted into your superannuation account each payday, you get used to the idea, and start to think that (perhaps) it's not such a bad idea after all. The more your super balance grows, the more confident you become that you will be able to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in later life.
Well-researched, practical and written in an easy-to-read style,
Rich Woman, Poor Woman explores:
What exactly is super, and how it can work harder for you
How to adopt super money habits and make a plan to achieve financial independence
Set and forget strategies to grow your super faster
Hacks for all ages: women in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and 60s
Industry Reviews
'Every woman should read this book. Buy it for your female relatives and friends! The style is fun and easy to read, with Pascale using analogy, metaphor and storytelling to bring the dry subject of superannuation to life. These tips and tricks are life-changing. Rich Woman, Poor Woman gets right to the heart of the gendered nature of our relationship with money and the structural causes of the superannuation gap. This is an essential handbook for anyone who cares about a fairer future.'
Tracey Spicer AM, multiple Walkley Award-winning author, journalist and broadcaster
'Anyone who wants long-term financial security should read Rich Woman, Poor Woman. Why? because it sheds light on one of the most critical financial tools available for securing a comfortable and financially independent retirement - superannuation. With so many women facing poverty in retirement, this book is a crucial guide to understanding how you can take practical steps which can make the difference between retiring rich and financially secure or relying on government support with financial stress and possibly a miserable existence.
'Rich Woman, Poor Woman serves as an urgent call to action, emphasising that there is no time to waste: today you must get started. Regardless of your current financial situation, now is the time to take control of your superannuation. Rich Woman, Poor Woman provides not only the "why" but also the "how", offering practical ideas on how women can maximise their superannuation and create lasting financial security. It is an empowering read for anyone wanting to safeguard their financial future.'
Canna Campbell, host of SugarMammaTV
'If you thought a book about superannuation couldn't be fun or make you smile while teaching crucial lessons to help secure your financial health, then give this a try! Brilliant read.'
Dr Bronwyn King AO, CEO Tobacco Free Portfolios
