Investing for Aussies Who Don’t Speak Finance

Shares, ETFs, and Super — explained in plain English (no jargon, no hype)

Let’s be honest: most investing advice sounds like it’s written by a finance bro or a textbook.

“Diversify your portfolio with long-term asset allocations across low-volatility equities…”

Mate. What?

If you’ve ever wanted to invest but felt overwhelmed by the lingo, this article’s for you.

You don’t need a finance degree. You don’t need a six-figure income.

You just need a simple way to understand how investing works — and how to get started without stuffing it up.

Let’s break it down, Aussie-style.

What Is Investing?

Investing is just putting your money somewhere it can grow over time.

• Saving is safe — but it barely keeps up with inflation

• Investing gives your money the chance to earn more money (called a return)

Think of it like this:

• Savings = your money sitting still

• Investing = your money going to work for you

What Are Shares?

When you buy shares (or “stocks”), you’re literally buying a tiny piece of a company — like Woolies, Apple, or BHP.

• If the company does well → your share price goes up

• Some companies also pay you a bonus called a dividend (free money just for being an owner)

Pros: Easy to buy, can grow fast over time

Watch for: Prices go up and down — not ideal for short-term money

What Are ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds)?

ETFs are like a box of shares. Instead of picking one company, you buy a whole basket.

For example:

• One ETF might hold the top 200 Aussie companies

• Another might track big US brands like Google, Amazon, Microsoft

Why people love them:

• They spread your risk (if one company tanks, you’re still OK)

• They’re usually lower fees, more stable

• Great for beginners who don’t want to research individual stocks

Pros: Simple, safer, more diversified

Watch for: Still goes up and down — long-term game

What About Super?

Your super fund is already investing for you — whether you realise it or not.

When you see that balance growing slowly, that’s your fund buying shares, ETFs, property, and more on your behalf.

But here’s the kicker:

You’re allowed to choose where your super gets invested.

So if your fund is sitting in “balanced” or “conservative,” it might be growing slower than it could.

What you can do:

• Log into your super fund

• Look at your investment options (Growth? High Growth? Ethical?)

• Choose one that matches your long-term goals and risk comfort

• Check fees — they eat into returns!

How to Start (Even with $50)

Investing isn’t just for the rich. You can start with as little as $5–$50 thanks to Aussie platforms like:

• CommSec Pocket

• Raiz

• Spaceship

• Pearler Micro

Most of these apps let you:

• Invest in ETFs

• Set up automatic deposits

• Learn as you go

The key: don’t try to “time the market.” Just invest consistently and let time do the heavy lifting.

Quick Recap: Shares vs ETFs vs Super

• Type : Shares

• What is it : Investing in Individual companies

• Who it’s For : Confident investors who like research

• Type : EFT

• What is it : Bundles of Individual companies

• Who it’s For : Fantastic for beginners who want to play it safe

• Type : Super

• What is it : Retirement investment

• Who it’s For : Everyone — it’s mandatory, so make it work for you

Final Thought: You Don’t Need to Be a Finance Guru.

You Just Need a Plan That Makes Sense to You.

Investing doesn’t have to be risky, confusing, or stressful.

With the right system — and a few smart choices — your money can grow quietly in the background while you live your life.

It’s exactly what we teach inside Wealth Together — and why so many Aussies are finally building wealth without spreadsheets or stress.

Want Help Starting Your First Investment?

Join us inside Wealth Together — the program that helps everyday Aussies learn to invest with confidence (even if they’ve never done it before).

Dave The Money Dad

Empowering Aussie families to make smart money moves with clarity, confidence, and community.