Let’s start here: $100k is a solid milestone, but it’s not necessarily the measure of investing success.

Yes, it’s satisfying. And yes, thanks to compounding, it’s the point where your money starts to really pull its weight. It's a huge milestone on your freedom journey. But it’s not going to be able to bankroll you for life.

Getting to $100k often takes the longest

In the early years, investing can feel slow. You’re contributing regularly, the market’s doing its thing… and you’re wondering if it’s all worth it.

But here’s the kicker:
• Getting from $0 → $100k? It might take you 5–10 years, depending on how much you invest.
• Getting from $100k → $200k? Often much faster.
• That’s the snowball effect of compound growth. Your money starts earning its own money. And that money earns money, too.

It’s like pushing a boulder up a hill - and then one day, it starts rolling on its own (sings in *defying gravity*).

And yes - Div 293 tax can be frustrating

If your income (plus super contributions), is over $250k, you might pay an extra 15% tax on your concessional super contributions.

It feels like a punishment for trying to do the right thing… but don’t write off super just yet. Even at 30% tax, it’s still often lower than your marginal rate - and the long-term, tax-free earnings inside super can be incredibly powerful.

If you're investing outside super, structure matters

There’s no one-size-fits-all here. Depending on your income, timeline and goals, you might consider:

• Investing in your personal name (simple, but taxed at your marginal rate)
• Using a family trust (flexible, but needs advice)
• Investment bonds, which are taxed at a flat 30% inside the structure - appealing to some, but they come with quirks and conditions (like needing to hold them for 10 years to get the tax benefits).

Translation: The structure you choose can make a huge difference to what you actually keep after tax - so don’t skip this step.

Bottom line?

There’s no magic number that guarantees “investing success.” But if you:
• Invest regularly
• Stay the course
• Choose a structure that works for your life
• And avoid panicking when the market dips...

…you’re already ahead of most people.

Jess

Have a money dilemma?

Money dilemmas can be a nightmare! They can leave you up all night ruminating about what to do, have you feeling alone and isolated or just plain ol' stuck. So, we are here to help. I am going to tackle one a week and give you my unbiased, no BS general thoughts on how to tackle your conundrum. We would love for you to send yours (or someone you know) in. 

Obvs all of this is general advice only... especially important to note any and all of the comments above do not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on any information, you should consider the appropriateness of the information provided and the nature of the relevant financial product having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs.