"A while ago I tried the markets but got burnt - mainly from rampers - a $15k lesson in stock trading"
You havent learned anything. Trading markets is a complete waste of time. The best use of your time is to further your professional career, be it engineering or whatever else you choose to do.
You main concern is to *create* capital through work or business.
Not only you can add to your existing capital this way, you will also over time acquire the necessary commercial and business skills which will ultimately make you a better investor.
Consider your investments initially as a *store* of wealth to which you can add incrementally.
Consider maximising super contributions.
Down the track you will find yourself in a position where the income from your investment assets will be significant compared to your salary.
At that point you will have choices as to what you want to do with your time.
