Contents -- Note to the reader -- Acknowledgments -- Introduction -- What just happened? -- Still the lucky country? -- Your personal economy -- Comparing investments -- Defensive plays -- Investing in shares -- Managed funds -- Index investing -- Superannuation - the basics -- Superannuation- making your choice -- Getting expert advice -- Your castle -- Avoiding a personal credit crunch -- The mortgage meltdown -- Recession proofing your job -- Slash your shopping bills -- Slash your household expenses -- Life and income protection insurance -- Ten things not to do -- Appendix -- Index.