Building a generational family business: Why coming together matters
- Shaun O'Keefe

- Jul 1
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 23
Let’s be honest.
We’re living in a time where everything feels a little harder than it should.
Inflation is up. Property prices are eye-watering.
And for many families, the dream of getting ahead - or even just catching up - feels more out of reach than ever.
But here’s what I’ve learned: no one builds wealth alone.
Long-term wealth building is a team sport. The families who move forward are the ones who stop trying to do it all themselves and start working together - with a shared purpose, a clear plan, and the right guidance around them.
Shared vision brings clarity
In uncertain times, a clear plan is like gold.
When families sit down and really align on what matters it changes the game. You stop chasing what the world says you should do, and start building something that’s yours.
Example: Instead of each family member trying to “make it” solo, you co-invest in assets or start a side business together - each person playing a part that suits their strengths.
Try this: Hold a relaxed family conversation. Talk less about “how much” and more about “why now.” Talk about the vision you see for your family. Anchor to family values before numbers.
You already have more than you think
In today’s economy, individual resources often feel too small to make a dent. But when you combine what you’ve got - time, skills, savings, experience - it starts to stack up. Families can unlock opportunities that would be completely unattainable on their own.
Example: Some families we work with can't buy individually, but together they can form a trust, secure financing, and can turn one investment into three over five years. It starts with a conversation, not capital.
Try this: List your combined assets - financial, personal, and relational. Get creative - there are no rules! Sometimes your parents equity, uncle’s tradie skills or your cousin’s bookkeeping knowledge is the missing piece.
In times like these, good advice is gold
When the market’s tough, the cost of getting it wrong is higher than ever. But so is the reward of getting it right. That’s why advice isn’t just a nice-to-have - it’s a multiplier. It helps you do more with less. It turns scattered ideas into a structured, future-thinking plan for your family.
Example: One family bought in the wrong structure. We helped them pause, look at a restructure, and protect their assets. Now they’re on track to build long-term wealth - and sleep better at night.
Next step: Find an adviser who understands the emotional and practical dynamics of family-led strategy. It’s not just about returns - it’s about generational resilience.
More soon.



