Life Stages

If you do have to trim your super contributions, don't worry, your super is not in jeopardy -- just make sure you contribute enough to get the Government co-contribution, if you're eligible.

Try not to live beyond your means and avoid credit card debt as much as possible.

You may be challenged financially and tempted to put super at the bottom of the 'to pay' list, but a boost from the Government is your windfall -- you've earned it and with the magic of compound interest over the long term, it can help make up for your current period of budget tightening.

Your partner can also make a spouse contribution to your super and potentially be eligible for a tax rebate. Also, think about making a Will -- after all, you have the needs of a family to consider now.

Many of the Quadrant team are mothers -- they have some practical tips from experience on how to cope, such as making time for yourself, whether it be for sport, your relationship or just 'chilling out'; burning off stress and clearing your mind through regular physical exercise; getting plenty of sleep; and not sweating over the small stuff.

Don't forget insurance

And if there's one thing they can't stress highly enough it's to get your insurances sorted out (you don't need the extra worry of not having an income if your partner has an accident or falls ill and can't work) and contribute even a couple of dollars a week into super, so you don't fall behind financially in the longer term.

Checklist

• Decide how you and your partner can work as a team and share the chores of parenthood
• Think of ways you can take some time out to re-charge your batteries when the baby arrives
• Consider paying even a small amount into super to take advantage of the Government's co-contribution scheme so you don't fall behind on your super.