You Won't Believe Why This Aussie Mum is Turning Down $3 Million – Learn Her Shocking Reason!

In a world where financial security is often a top priority, especially for those of us in our golden years, the idea of turning down a substantial sum of money might seem unfathomable. Yet, a story has emerged of an Aussie mum who is doing just that, and it's sparked a conversation about wealth, simplicity, and the values we pass on to the next generation.



The mum in question, a single parent from Tasmania, has recently found herself in a position that many might envy: she's set to inherit a whopping $3 million from a relative. But instead of jumping for joy, she's contemplating rejecting the inheritance altogether. Her reasoning? She fears that such a large sum could complicate her life, which she currently enjoys for its simplicity.


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An Aussie worker revealed she didn't want to accept a $3 million inheritance from a family member. Credit: Shutterstock


'I have just paid off my house in Tasmania and am now adding 10 per cent to my super each pay. I don’t renovate or travel far. No dishwasher and a broken oven. It has come to my attention that I am to inherit $3m from a relative. This is generous but wealth like that brings complexity,' she explained.



This sentiment may resonate with many of our readers here at the Seniors Discount Club, who often value the peace and contentment that comes with a simpler life. The idea of 'more money, more problems' isn't new, but it's a stark contrast to the consumer-driven narrative that more is always better.

The woman's story caught the attention of finance expert Scott Pape, also known as the Barefoot Investor, who addressed her dilemma in his Herald Sun column. While he initially called her a 'weirdo' for her reluctance to accept the inheritance, he also acknowledged that her perspective was rooted in a desire to maintain a certain lifestyle and to encourage her children to succeed on their own merits.

Pape offered some sage advice on how she could manage the inheritance without letting it disrupt her life. He suggested setting aside an emergency fund, investing a large amount in an ethically invested index share fund, and establishing a private ancillary fund (PAF) to donate money in a tax-efficient manner.



The idea of a PAF is particularly interesting, as it not only provides a tax deduction but also involves the family in philanthropic efforts, potentially instilling a sense of generosity and community responsibility in her children.

This story comes at a time when Australia is on the cusp of the largest intergenerational wealth transfer in its history, with $3.5 trillion expected to be passed down from the Silent Generation and Baby Boomers. According to consumer finance group Finder, a significant number of Aussies are anticipating inheritances, with some even hoping for an early gift to help with the cost-of-living crisis.

However, as Sarah Megginson, a personal finance expert at Finder, points out, early inheritances should be considered carefully, taking into account future financial needs and tax implications.



For our readers, this tale might prompt reflection on what we value most and how we would handle a sudden windfall. Would you follow in the footsteps of the Tasmanian mum and prioritize simplicity, or would you take the money and use it to fulfill dreams or secure your family's future?

Key Takeaways
  • An Aussie mum is considering rejecting a $3 million inheritance, fearing it will complicate her simple lifestyle.
  • Finance expert Scott Pape, known as the Barefoot Investor, advises accepting the inheritance and offers ways to manage it simply.
  • Pape suggests using the inheritance for an emergency fund, an ethically invested index share fund, and setting up a private ancillary fund (PAF) for charitable donations.
  • There's an anticipated large intergenerational wealth transfer in Australia, with many hoping to receive inheritances early to alleviate financial pressures.

We'd love to hear your thoughts on this matter. Would you turn down a multi-million dollar inheritance? How would you manage such a significant sum if it came into your life? Share your opinions and experiences in the comments below, and let's discuss the complexities and joys that money can bring into our lives.
 

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I can see both sides to this story. Just thinking of having that amount of money and you will see every man and his dog wanting a piece of it. Dodgy people pretending to work for charities, family members you have never heard of or from etc. But wouldn't it be nice to buy a few things that make your life a bit simpler. You don't have to show off your wealth. I think I would take the inheritance and then set up bank accounts for my kids, grandkids only to be given to them at a certain age or upon my death
 
Well said Iggydi. I was thinking about how many people could be helped by donating to various charitable causes. I understand this lady’s thinking on wanting her children to work for whatever they want but I’m sure they would totally appreciate a fully funded university course, if desired, as well as help with a deposit for their first home. I hope that she gets good financial advice & sorts it all out.
 
This lady is not a weirdo that was not a nice thing to say.
Not everyone is money motivated. It would be totally overwhelming to be told you have been left an inheritance of three million dollars.
If this lady prefers a simple life good on her. Because money does not bring happiness. It can bring a lot of unwanted heartache.
I cannot tell you what l would do in her position. As l have never thought what l would do with that amount of money. I like the simplicity of my life. As long as l can pay the bills food on the table and a little left over l am happy.
I have a friend who would say l could spend that easy. But that person has no partner children or grandchildren and excellent health. Good income a very large house which is like a display home. A luxury car from her work place. And from her hard work has done a lot of travel. But l feel she is always looking for assurance with do you like this or that l have done or bought.
I can understand this lady with her simple life. She is obviously a happy lady.
Good luck to her.
Kind regards to all Vicki
 
Oh dear.
Two Pape stories in one week?
How long until this page changes name to Barefoot Seniors?
 
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I wouldn't mind a $3m inheritance to give me a simpler life stile.

How many others would enjoy a $3M simpler life style ?

Reminds me , I'd better hop down to the news agency for a crack at the $50M Power Ball tonight.
 
Yes how many people gamble various amounts of money every week hoping for such a windfall. I have heard many are no happier. Some very unhappy. You wonder if this lady is on welfare which would further complicates things as she would have to be careful if she refuses the money and the rules??? Good luck to anyone who is happy in life, and I certainly wish them well
 
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