When it comes to money, women face a financial landscape distinctly different from men. It’s not just about income or savings - it’s about life stages, social roles, longevity and the evolving role today’s women have in managing personal finances. Collectively these can have significant impact on your financial position now - and in the future.

Understanding the nuances is the first step toward financial empowerment. And while the challenges are real, the opportunities are significant - especially when you seek advice tailored to your unique needs.

The gender pay gap

The Australian Bureau of Statistics national gender pay gap currently sits at 11.5%¹ - meaning for every dollar earned by a man, a woman earns 88 cents. Each week, this equates to a shortfall of $242.30 in average earnings.

This gap compounds over time, affecting not only day-to-day financial security but also long-term wealth accumulation. Lower earnings mean lower superannuation contributions, reduced capacity to invest, and less contingency funds in times of crisis.

Career breaks and superannuation shortfalls

Women are more likely to take time out of the workforce to raise children or care for family members. These career breaks, while often necessary and deeply valued, come at a financial cost.

The Moneysmart Retirement Planner highlights how even short breaks from paid work can significantly reduce superannuation balances². Women who work part-time or take extended leave often miss out on employer contributions and have fewer opportunities to make voluntary contributions.

This isn’t just a short-term issue - it’s a long-term challenge that can affect retirement income for decades.

The longevity conundrum

The good news is Australians are living longer than ever. Women live longer than men – on average, 85.1 years compared to 81.1 years³. While this is testament to improved health and wellbeing, it also means women need their retirement savings to last longer.

Longevity risk - the possibility of outliving your savings - is a critical issue. Women need to plan for a longer retirement, often with fewer resources. This makes strategic financial advice essential, especially when it comes to managing superannuation, investments, and income streams in later life.

Custodians of the wealth transfer

Perhaps one of the most compelling reasons for women to take charge of their finances is the upcoming intergenerational wealth transfer. Women are expected to become custodians of more than 65% of the $5.3 trillion⁴ in wealth that will change hands in Australia over the coming decades.

This shift is not just about inheritance - it’s about leadership. Women will increasingly be the decision-makers for family wealth, investments, and legacy planning. Whether it’s managing property portfolios, overseeing trusts, or making philanthropic decisions, the stakes are high.

And yet, many women still feel underprepared or lack confidence when it comes to financial decision-making. That’s where expert advice can make all the difference.

Why financial advice for women matters

Financial advice isn’t just about numbers - it’s about understanding your life, your goals, and your values. And for women, that means recognising the unique challenges and opportunities they face.

Women’s financial journeys are different to men’s. From navigating maternity leave and part-time work to planning for retirement and managing wealth, there is no cookie-cutter solution. As a woman, it’s important to ensure your advice grows with you. Whether you’re building wealth, protecting your family, or planning your legacy, good financial advice will help ensure you’re able to make confident, informed decisions.

Specialist advisers for women

Shadforth is proud to have a strong network of experienced female financial advisers recognised for their professionalism and dedication⁵, spread across capital cities and regional centres. These advisers specialise in helping women navigate life’s financial transitions - from divorce and career changes to retirement and estate planning.

Our advisers understand the emotional and practical dimensions of financial decision-making. And they’re committed to helping women build confidence and clarity for their unique financial situation.

Building confidence, one conversation at a time

Despite the challenges, Australian women are increasingly recognising the importance of financial wellbeing. A recent Shadforth report found that 74% of women consider financial wellbeing extremely or very important for achieving life’s aspirations⁶.

Yet many still feel uncertain about where to start. That’s why we offer a free initial wealth discussion - to help women ask questions and explore their options.

References:

¹ Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2025, August 14). ABS gender pay gap data. Workplace Gender Equality Agency. Retrieved from https://www.wgea.gov.au/data-statistics/ABS-gender-pay-gap-data
² Moneysmart. (2025). Retirement planner. Australian Government. Retrieved from https://moneysmart.gov.au/plan-for-your-retirement/retirement-planner [Disclaimer: The reference and link to the Moneysmart Retirement Planner in this article does not imply affiliation, endorsement or sponsorship by ASIC.]
³ Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2024, November 8). Life expectancy, 2021–2023. Retrieved from https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/population/life-expectancy/latest-release
⁴ Yardney, M. (2025, August 22). $1 trillion and climbing: The truth about Australia’s wealthiest. Property Update. Retrieved from https://propertyupdate.com.au/1-trillion-and-climbing-the-truth-about-australias-wealthiest/
⁵ As recognised in the FS Power 50 2024 - https://www.financialstandard.com.au/fspower50#events & Barron’s Top 150 financial advisers 2025 - https://www.theaustralian.com.au/wealth/capital-gains/barrons-top-150-financial-advisers-2024/news-story
⁶ Shadforth Financial Group. (2025). Advice for women. Retrieved from www.sfg.com.au/content/dam/sfg/docs/pdf/shadforth-dream-big-take-action-guide.pdf