While most investors seek strong returns, what defines a “good” return can differ greatly. For some, it means steady passive income; for others, it’s long-term growth potential. What remains consistent is the link between return and risk—higher returns usually involve greater risk. This makes it essential to clearly understand your financial goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance before committing to any investment.
This guide explores various investments with good returns, key factors to consider, and how you can leverage proven strategies to build wealth over time. Whether you’re just getting started or refining your portfolio, here’s how to think about where to invest money to get good returns in Australia.
Understanding Your Investment Goals And Risk Tolerance
Before diving into specific options, evaluate what you’re investing in and how comfortable you are with the ups and downs that may come along the way.
Define Your Investment Goals
Are you saving for retirement? Looking to buy a home? Building a stream of passive income? Each goal will influence how long you should invest and what kind of returns you need to hit your targets. For example, someone investing for retirement in 20 years may prioritise capital growth, while someone looking for income might prefer more stable monthly-paying investments.
Understand Your Risk Tolerance
Risk tolerance is your ability and willingness to endure losses in the short term for the potential of higher long-term gains. Conservative investors prefer safer, lower-yield assets, while aggressive investors are more comfortable with volatility. Aligning your investment approach with your risk tolerance can help you avoid emotionally driven decisions.
Use tools like our Investment Calculator to estimate potential returns across different timeframes and risk levels.
Popular Investment Options In Australia
Here’s an overview of common investment types available in Australia, their expected returns, and associated risks.
Shares (Stocks)
Investing in shares means owning part of a company. Returns are typically generated through capital growth and dividends.
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Returns: Historically, 7–10% per annum over the long term.
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Risks: High volatility, market fluctuations, potential capital loss.
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Best For: Long-term investors seeking capital growth.
Diversifying through ETFs or managed funds can reduce company-specific risks.
Bonds (Fixed Income)
Bonds are loans to governments or companies that pay interest over time. They are generally more stable than stocks.
Property (Real Estate)
Investing in real estate can generate both capital appreciation and rental income.
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Returns: Varies based on location, timing, and property type (6–10% p.a. on average).
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Risks: Illiquidity, maintenance costs, vacancy risk.
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Best For: Investors with a long-term outlook.
Instead of direct ownership, you can access returns through commercial property funds or direct investments secured by Australian property.
Managed Funds
These are professionally managed investment structures where capital is allocated—either across multiple assets in a pooled arrangement or directly into specific opportunities.
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Returns: 6–12% p.a., depending on strategy and fees. With 268 Fund, you can expect returns of 10%-23%.
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Risks: Management underperformance, fees reducing gains.
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Best For: Investors seeking diversification and expert oversight.
Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs)
ETFs track indexes or sectors and are traded like shares.
Alternative Investments
Alternative options like private equity, hedge funds, or unlisted property trusts can provide diversification and higher return potential.
268 Fund
268 Fund offers access to property development investment strategies structured to deliver high target returns. These include direct mortgage-backed investments and profit-sharing equity opportunities, all designed with security and transparency in mind.
Factors To Consider Beyond Returns
Choosing investments with good returns goes beyond just comparing yield percentages. Other considerations include:
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Time Horizon: Your investment duration affects your risk exposure and return potential.
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Liquidity: Can you exit your investment easily if needed?
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Costs and Fees: Look out for brokerage, management, or performance fees.
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Diversification: A well-balanced portfolio can reduce risk.
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Inflation Protection: Returns should ideally outpace inflation.
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Tax Efficiency: Different investment income streams may be taxed differently.
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Due Diligence: Always investigate the specifics of each opportunity.
Why Long-Term Investing Matters
Long-term investing allows compounding to work its magic. This is the process where your returns generate additional returns over time.
At 268 Fund, we focus on helping investors capture long-term value through rigorously selected, property-backed, secured, simplified, and transparent investments.
Stay Informed And Review Regularly
Even strong investments require maintenance. Markets evolve, goals shift, and risk profiles change. Schedule regular portfolio reviews and adjust your allocations as needed. Rebalancing can help maintain the right level of risk exposure over time.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is general in nature and does not constitute personal financial advice. You should consult a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Terms and Conditions Apply. Past Performance is not an indicator of future performance.
Ready To Explore Smarter Investment Opportunities?
If you’re exploring where to invest money to get good returns in Australia, 268 Fund offers exclusive access to property-secured investment options tailored for wholesale investors. From short-term direct mortgage opportunities to long-term equity stakes in development projects, our offerings are designed to deliver strong returns.*
Learn more about our current offerings in Direct Investments, explore our Commercial Property Funds, or assess your return potential using our Investment Calculator. Want to diversify even further? Our Property Development Investment opportunities can help you build wealth with confidence.