Topic Outcome for Students: Gain a foundational understanding of financial independence, recognizing the significance of financial literacy, and starting their journey towards financial security and independence through practical exercises Contents: Understanding financial 'why' through Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, the concept of financial independence, investing in financial knowledge, understanding assets, liabilities, net worth, cash inflow and outflow, and steps towards financial independence. Resources: Exercises focused on identifying personal financial goals, understanding net wealth, and net cashflow surplus, and exercises aimed at establishing levels of financial independence among peers for inspiration and goal setting. And as bonus, just to get you started, we throw in a projection of your retirement investments growth and estimate the age you can reach FIRE based on a variety of inputs that you provide!

Topic Outcome for Students: After completing this module, students will be able to articulate clear and actionable financial goals using the SMART criteria, understand the difference between wants, needs, desires, and wishes, and prioritize their financial goals effectively. They will learn the importance of setting goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound, and how these goals contribute to their journey towards financial independence. Content: This module covers the formulation of financial goals through exercises that include mapping unwanted outcomes to understand motivations, creating SMART goals, and dividing goals into short, mid, and long-term time frames. It emphasizes the importance of specificity, measurability, achievability, relevance, and time-boundedness in goal setting. Resources: Exercises to help students distinguish between wants, needs, desires, and wishes, and guide them in prioritizing goals to create a focused plan towards achieving financial independence as well as creating a vision.

Topic Outcome for Students: Upon completing this unit, students will be able to assess their financial longevity, differentiate between active and passive income, set realistic financial independence goals, and adopt strategies to increase their passive income. They will gain practical skills in financial planning, understanding the importance of a comfortable living standard, and utilizing external resources to make informed decisions about their financial future. This foundation equips them to navigate their path toward financial independence, ensuring their savings align with their life expectancy and lifestyle aspirations. Content: Masterclass Unit 2 delves into critical financial concepts for achieving independence. It covers longevity's financial implications, understanding comfortable living standards, distinguishing between active and passive income, and calculating the financial independence rate (FIRE rate). The unit aims to equip learners with strategies for effective financial planning, optimizing income sources, and setting realistic goals towards financial freedom, emphasizing the importance of preparing for extended retirement, managing healthcare costs, and ensuring a sustainable lifestyle. Resources: The resources for Masterclass Unit 2 include various external websites for exercises that involve calculating expected life expectancy, determining a comfortable level of living budget, and differentiating between active and passive income. These resources are aimed at enabling participants to conduct practical exercises related to their financial planning, such as estimating how long their retirement savings need to last and adjusting their financial independence goals accordingly.

Topic Outcome for Students : Get clarity and control of your own cashflow Content: Module 3: Cashflow Clarity – Mastering Your Budget" is designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to effectively manage and optimize their personal finances. This module delves deep into the intricacies of cash flow, teaching participants how to meticulously analyze and understand where their money is going. It covers key concepts such as income tracking, expense categorization, and the identification of spending patterns. Participants will learn to create and maintain a realistic budget that aligns with their financial goals, enabling them to make informed decisions. This course also introduces strategies for reducing unnecessary expenses and increasing savings. By the end of this module, attendees will have a clear roadmap to financial stability and the confidence to take control of their financial future. Resources: Budget exercise sheet and Budget App

Topic Outcome for Students: Upon completion, students will understand the distinctions between good and bad debt, recognize how strategic leveraging of debt can be a powerful tool for financial growth, and be aware of the risks and benefits involved. They will learn how to manage debt wisely to enhance their financial position without compromising their financial security. Content: The module could delve into the characteristics of good debt (like mortgages or student loans, which can generate long-term value) versus bad debt (such as high-interest credit card debt), the concept of leveraging debt for investment purposes, and practical strategies for debt management. It also cover the importance of interest rates, debt repayment plans, tax deductible debt and how to use debt to build wealth without falling into financial distress. Resources: Resources include case studies, debt management tools, and articles on risk assessment related to leveraging debt

Topic Outcome for Students: Students will gain comprehensive knowledge about the Australian Savings Pillars, understanding how these structures can be utilized to secure and enhance their financial future. They'll learn strategies to maximize benefits within superannuation, personal savings, and government incentives, tailoring these pillars to their individual financial goals and retirement planning. Content: This module explores the specifics of the Superannuation. Retirement income streams, Home ownership and Small Business Concessions in Australia. It would emphasize practical approaches to saving, investing wisely within these frameworks, and understanding the tax advantages and conditions associated with each. Resources: Guides to superannuation funds, and case studies illustrating effective savings strategies.

Topic Outcome for students: Students will learn to analyze various investment options and understand how to allocate their resources to optimize financial growth. This module will introduce the fundamentals of investment, risk assessment, and the importance of diversification. Students will be equipped with strategies to make informed investment decisions that align with their financial goals and risk tolerance Content: This module covers topics such as the basics of the stock market, bonds, mutual funds, and real estate investments, as well as more advanced concepts like retirement accounts, tax-advantaged investing, and portfolio management. Exercises might include case studies on investment decisions, risk evaluation exercises, and creating a diversified investment plan. Resources: Resources include asset allocation tools, risk profile questionnaires and expectations

Topic Outcome for Students: Students will learn the importance of incorporating life insurance and estate planning into their financial strategy to protect their assets and ensure their legacy. They'll gain insights into different types of life insurance, the role of estate planning in wealth transfer, and how to utilize these tools to safeguard their financial future and provide for their loved ones. Content: This module covers the fundamentals of life insurance policies, the process of estate planning, key documents such as wills and trusts, tax implications, and strategies for efficient wealth transfer. It also include practical exercises for evaluating life insurance needs and drafting a basic estate plan. Resources: Guides on choosing the right insurance policy, and templates for estate planning documents.

Topic Outcome for Students: Students will gain the knowledge to identify and understand various financial fees, commissions, and charges associated with banking, investing, and other financial services. They will learn strategies to minimize unnecessary costs, negotiate better terms, and make informed decisions to avoid falling into common financial traps that can erode their wealth. Contents This module covers types of fees and charges in financial products and services, tips for fee negotiation, understanding fee structures, the impact of fees on investment returns, and tactics for avoiding high-cost traps. Resources Comparative case studies, checklists for evaluating financial products, and guides on reading and understanding the fine print in financial agreements.

Topic Outcome for Students: Students will learn how to integrate the principles covered in previous modules into a cohesive understanding of their financial health, creating a comprehensive wealth projection. This module aims to empower students with the knowledge to make informed financial decisions, focusing on understanding their current and future net wealth growth. Utilizing financial planning software, students will craft their own wealth projections, providing a personalized roadmap to exit the rat race based on their individual priorities and financial goals. Contents and Resources: The module will guide students through summarizing key financial principles into a singular "financial heartbeat"—a dynamic wealth projection that tracks net wealth growth. It includes hands-on training with financial planning software to create these projections, along with strategies for staying on track towards achieving financial independence.

Topic Outcome for Students: In this concluding masterclass, students will learn how to carefully select and engage with financial professionals, such as accountants and financial advisers, to ensure their financial strategies are personalized and effective. The session will cover the importance of understanding fiduciary duty, strategies for avoiding common pitfalls in financial advisory services, and the benefits of a collaborative approach with a team of professionals. It aims to equip students with the knowledge to make informed decisions, negotiate better terms, and understand the comprehensive support system available for achieving their financial goals. Contents and Resources: The content includes guidance on evaluating the qualifications and services of financial professionals, understanding fiduciary responsibilities, tips for cost-saving by minimizing intermediaries, and the advantages of a diversified professional support system. Students will receive a checklist for assessing their current or potential financial advisers and accountant' alignment with their financial objectives, ensuring they work for the client's benefit.

Unlike many courses, "Financial Freedom Foundations" is crafted by an independent financial adviser, focusing on practical, actionable strategies with a personal touch. We offer general financial advice suitable for a wide audience and an interactive component where we review students' work, providing personalized feedback to ensure you can apply what you've learned directly to your financial situation. This hands-on approach ensures our students not only gain knowledge but also the confidence to implement it. After completing the whole course you should have gained the skills, knowledge and confidence to optimize your current financial situation to get to your financial independence quicker and have tools in place to monitor the progress.

Our course is designed to accommodate your schedule, starting immediately after you sign up. As soon as you're ready, you'll gain access to the first module. Dive into the content at your own pace, and when you’re done with the exercises for a module, simply submit them to our course administrator. Upon successful submission, we’ll unlock the next module for you. The course reaches its conclusion after you’ve completed all 10 modules and submitted your final work for review. By the end of this comprehensive journey, you'll have gained the knowledge and skills necessary to confidently navigate your path to financial independence. At conclusion you you gain a certificate from our office recognizing your work and new skills. Furthermore you can join our group of like minded persons that get together either online or in person to practice the skills of creating wealth or you can progress to get personal advice from our independent advisers and access tools and resources that you by yourself can't afford. Keep in mind that you'll have access to all the course materials for 12 months from the day of your purchase. This duration ensures you have ample time to thoroughly engage with and revisit the content as needed to reinforce your learning.

Absolutely! Our course is meticulously designed for anyone eager to escape or avoid the rat race – regardless of age, computer skills, or educational background. Whether you're just starting on your financial journey or already enjoying financial independence, there's valuable insight for everyone. Our diverse community ranges from complete beginners to seasoned professionals in the industry, in Australia, the USA and even Europe! Technical Requirements: To do this course effectively we recommend: 1) Desktop computer 2) Printer/ Scanner or Photo Camera on your Phone 3) Internet 4) Email 5) MS Office and Acrobat Reader 6) Basic Calculator

If you're aiming to break free from the rat race and chart a path to financial independence, this course is your stepping stone. Here’s why enrolling in our course is a game-changer: Invest in Your Greatest Asset: Recognize that the most effective asset you can build for wealth creation is yourself. This course is an investment in your personal and financial growth. Holistic Skill Development: You'll gain a toolkit to: Sharpen your Money Management Skills: Learn to manage your finances more effectively. Prepare for Financial Challenges: Equip yourself to face and overcome potential financial hurdles. Support Retirement Planning: Lay a solid foundation for a secure, comfortable retirement. Promote Financial Independence: Chart a course towards achieving true financial freedom. Make Confident Financial Decisions: Gain the confidence to make informed financial choices. Empowerment Through Knowledge: Empower yourself with the knowledge to transition from active to passive income, taking smarter steps towards financial freedom. Tailored for Real Results: This isn't just theory; it's about practical, actionable strategies that you can apply to your life immediately. By the end of this course, you won’t just be planning for financial independence – you’ll be actively working towards it, equipped with the skills and confidence to make it a reality

Our course is a comprehensive package tailored to empower you on your journey to financial independence. Here’s what you can expect: Immediate Start: The course begins as soon as you sign up. You can start learning at your convenience, with immediate access to the first module. Self-Paced Learning: Progress through the course at your own pace. Each module is designed to build upon the last, allowing you to deepen your understanding as you go. Interactive Modules: Engage with a series of 10 interactive modules. Each one includes insightful content and practical exercises that you’ll submit for review. Once your exercises are successfully lodged with our course administrator, the next module is unlocked. Personalized Feedback: Receive feedback on your submissions, helping you to refine your understanding and approach. Final Review: Upon completing all 10 modules, your final work will be reviewed, marking the culmination of your learning experience. Extended Access: You’ll have 12 months of access to all the course materials from your purchase date. This gives you the freedom to revisit and review the content as many times as you need, ensuring a solid grasp of the principles taught. Goal-Oriented Design: By the end of the course, you will have acquired the skills and knowledge essential for taking control of your financial future. In summary, our course offers a structured yet flexible learning environment, comprehensive content, personalized support, and extended access to resources – all designed to guide you towards financial mastery. Finally, if any of the 10 modules is updated during those 12 months you will get access to the the new contents for free.

Investing in our 10-class course requires AUD $249 per unit or AUD 1,999 per person for the full course, a valuable investment towards mastering your financial future. It also involves dedicating about 20 hours of your time to gain invaluable knowledge and skills. We're also committed to making this journey accessible to families. That's why we provide family member discounts of up to 50%. Get in touch with us for more details on how to apply for these discounts. Want to start risk-free? Try the first module for free. Simply message us, provide some basic details, and we’ll unlock the first module for you. As part of our Masterclass, you'll also get discounted access to an external budget app. This tool is a great resource for managing your net wealth and cash flow, allowing you to put into practice what you learn in our course. And you get a free template Will and Enduring Power of Attorney and Enduring Power of Guardianship often valued at +$2,000 at the lawyers. Course coverage reach: Can I complete this course on behalf of my whole household? It depends, if your financial household is managed by only one member of the family, then yes. However, if each member of the family manages their own separate finances, its best to complete the course on an individual basis as each person has their own unique circumstances, goals and dreams. We do firmly believe that each member of the couple will benefit from gaining a basic level of financial literacy just in case something happens. To accommodate this we have a special family offer where the second member of the couple can complete the full course at half price. Please contact us for more details.

For Tax deductions: Potentially yes, it depends on your personal circumstances including if you are able to proof an connection with the course material and your income from work, your business or your investments. For Superannuation: Potentially yes partly, however it depends on your superannuation product provider and their rules in relation to paying for general financial advice fees. Please note that an administrative charge applies for the time to arrange this. We have created a decision process for you to help you, your super fund trustee and or your accountant to decide if the course cost is tax deductible or not for you personally or the superfund. Please contact our office: micksteffan@ifswa.com.au for further details.

Definitely. One of our core beliefs is that the single most powerful asset you possess is your mind. Investing in financial intelligence pays dividends, regardless of your current financial status. This course offers advanced insights and strategies that can enhance your financial acumen, helping you not just maintain but also grow your financial independence. It's an opportunity to refine your skills and discover new, innovative approaches to wealth management and financial decision-making.

Understanding the difference between general and personal advice is crucial in the context of financial planning in Australia. Let's clarify: General vs. Personal Advice: General Advice: This course provides general financial education. It’s designed to enhance your overall financial knowledge and skills, applicable to a broad audience without considering individual financial situations or objectives. Personal Advice: In contrast, personal financial advice is tailored to your specific circumstances, goals, and needs. It involves a detailed analysis of your personal financial situation and provides recommendations directly applicable to you. Course Purpose: Our course is an excellent starting point for anyone looking to increase their financial literacy and independence. However, it does not replace the need for personal advice if you require a tailored plan. Additional Services: For those who seek personalized financial guidance, we offer a personal financial advice service. Our expert advisers can provide you with bespoke advice, taking into account your unique financial circumstances. Flexibility in Approach: If at any point during the course you feel that you would benefit more from personal advice, or if you decide not to complete the course, you have the option to transition to our personal advice service. Here, our team will work closely with you to develop a strategy that meets your specific financial goals. In summary, while our course empowers you with valuable financial knowledge and skills, personal advice is available for those seeking a more customized approach to their financial planning.

Thank you for your interest in our course. We understand the importance of making informed decisions, especially when it comes to your financial education. That's why we offer free access to the first unit of our course. This module is designed to give you a real taste of the valuable content, structure, and insights you can expect from the full course. We believe this initial experience will help you make a confident decision about continuing with us. While we do not offer refunds, we are committed to ensuring your satisfaction and financial success. As a special gesture, should you choose to further your financial journey with us, we are pleased to offer a discount on a personalized, fully comprehensive financial plan tailored to your unique needs. Our team is always available to discuss this opportunity and assist you in any way possible.

Meet Mick Steffan, the creative force and guiding hand behind the innovative Exit the Rat Race Masterclasses. Based in Geraldton, Western Australia, Mick is not just an ordinary financial adviser and accountant; he's a seasoned expert with a diverse and rich background in the financial sector. As the executive director of Independent Advisers WA, Impartial Financial Advisers, and Mick Steffan Pty Ltd., Mick's daily life is a testament to his extensive expertise and leadership in the field. With a robust experience spanning over three decades, he has delved into various roles - from an investment researcher at Dow Jones Telerate to an Options and Futures Settlement Agent. He has also served as a Financial Adviser with local firms, a Business Development Manager for multiple financial advice businesses, and in 2001, he bravely ventured to establish his own business. Mick's journey has seen his advisory business evolve from a commission-based model to an independent entity, operating under his own Australian Financial Service License. This transition reflects his deep commitment to aligning his work with his core values and ethics. Today, his firm specializes in managing the financial assets of a select group of high-net-worth families, handling over $1.5 million in assets. What truly sets Mick apart is his passion for financial literacy, coupled with a firm belief in honest, ethical advice. He's a staunch advocate for helping others navigate the financial world without falling into the traps of unethical practices. His clients immensely value his proactive, value-based approach, which is bolstered by a team of dedicated subject matter experts who take their fiduciary responsibilities seriously. Mick's academic and professional credentials are as impressive as his career. He holds or has hold a Diploma in Financial Planning, Certified Financial Adviser Designation, and is a Self Managed Superfund Specialist. He's also has been a Certified Ethical Investment Adviser, and boasts a Bachelor's degree in Business Economics, along with Masters in Taxation and complete the Masters in Financial Planning unit 1, specializing in Ethics. His commitment to the field is further evidenced by his active participation in several prestigious organizations, including the Financial Planning Association, Profession of Independent Financial Advisers Association, and the Certified Independent Financial Advisers Association. He's also was recognized by the Australian Taxation Board as a Tax Agent and is a member of the Association of Self Managed Superannuation Funds, Institute of Australian Tax Agents, and the Ethical Investment Association Australia. Beyond his professional endeavors, Mick is deeply rooted in his community. He has been actively involved in various capacities with the Geraldton Windsurf Club, Business Networking International, Geraldton Volleyball Group, and the Geraldton Clean Up Crew. In creating the Exit the Rat Race Masterclasses, Mick Steffan brings all this wealth of experience, knowledge, and ethical grounding to offer a course that is not just informative but transformative, aiming to empower individuals towards financial independence and literacy. Finally, Mick became financial independent at age 48 with the buy back of the last share of one of his businesses from his strategic partners.