Case Study: From Redundancy to Financial Freedom

Background

David and Karen, a couple in their early 60s, came to Alman Partners facing a crossroads. After 35 years in the mining industry, David was made redundant in early 2025 – five years earlier than expected. The sudden change sparked uncertainty: Could he retire now? Would they have enough to live the life they envisioned?

Karen, still working as an executive assistant, was also considering stepping into retirement soon. Their financial picture included superannuation, direct shares, and managed investments. Their goal? A comfortable retirement with an annual income of $90,000, plus $25,000 earmarked for travel adventures.

The Solution

In our discovery meetings, David and Karen shared their top priorities: financial security, peace of mind, and the freedom to enjoy life without constantly watching their spending.

Alman Partners crafted a tailored financial strategy that not only confirmed they could retire earlier than planned – but also strengthened their long-term financial resilience.

Key advice highlights:

• Early Retirement Confidence: Using advanced wealth tracking and statistical modelling, we showed David and Karen they could retire in 2025 and still enjoy their ideal lifestyle. Even with elevated spending for the first decade, their capital was projected to last well beyond age 90.
• Smarter, Safer Investments: We recommended shifting from concentrated direct shares to diversified, evidence-based portfolios. This move balanced growth and defensive assets to reduce volatility and protect against sequencing risk.
• Superannuation Strategy: A recontribution strategy was implemented to boost the tax-free portion of their super – potentially saving their children over $120,000 in future estate taxes.
• Debt-Free Living: By selling select shares, they were able to completely pay off their home loan – cutting interest costs and freeing up cash flow.
• Tax Efficiency: We structured personal deductible contributions and timed asset sales to minimise tax and maximise superannuation caps.
• Estate Planning with Purpose: Binding nominations and reversionary pension structures were put in place to ensure a smooth, tax-effective transfer of wealth.

Peace of Mind Delivered

The outcome? Relief and joy.

David, once anxious about his redundancy, felt a profound sense of reassurance knowing he never had to work again if he didn’t want to. Karen was thrilled to learn she could begin her retirement journey immediately.

David described the experience as “a sense of relief,” while Karen said it made her “extremely happy.” They both appreciated the clarity, structure, and evidence-based approach Alman Partners brought to their financial future – removing guesswork and replacing it with confidence.

*Names have been changed to protect the individual’s identity.

Jason Kirk (CFP® Professional, SMSF Specialist Adviser, GradDip. App.Fin&Inv, B.Econ) is an Authorised Representative of Alman Partners Pty Ltd, Australian Financial Services Licence No: 222107.