05/09/2026
Living in Australia is expensive… but here are the hacks that actually save me money.
1. Check the unit price, not just the sale price.
A “2 for $5” deal isn’t always cheaper than another brand. Compare the price per 100g/100mL.
2. Shop the markdown section.
Look for reduced meat, bread and fresh food and freeze what you won’t use immediately.
3. Meal plan around what’s already in your fridge.
Check the pantry and freezer before grocery shopping to avoid buying duplicates.
4. Use supermarket catalogues before you shop.
Build your meals around what’s actually on special (1/2 price)rather than deciding what you want first.
5. Compare petrol prices before filling up.
In NSW, use FuelCheck to see prices around you or use 7-11 and lock the cheapest price for a week!
6. Compare your electricity / gas/ internert plan every year.
Don’t assume your current provider is giving you the best deal. NSW residents can use the government’s Energy Made Easy comparison service.
7. Cancel subscriptions you forgot about.
Streaming, apps, memberships and cloud storage can quietly drain hundreds of dollars a year.
8. Call your providers and negotiate.
Before renewing internet, insurance or other services, ask:
“Do you have a better deal available?”
9. Compare health / car etc., insurance instead of automatically renewing.
Prices can vary significantly between insurers.
10. Use separate bank accounts.
Have one for bills, one for everyday spending and one for savings. It makes it harder to accidentally spend your bill money.
11. Automate your savings on payday.
Even a small automatic transfer means you save before you have a chance to spend it.
12. Use cashback/rewards strategically.
Only use them for things you were already going to buy - don’t spend extra just to earn points.
13. Buy second-hand for expensive items.
Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree and op shops can be great for furniture, appliances and other household items.
14. Borrow instead of buying.
Especially for tools, camping equipment, party items and things you’ll only use once.
15. Take your own coffee and lunch to work.
$10–15 a day can easily become $200–300+ a month.
16. Use public transport when it makes sense.
Sometimes leaving the car at home saves more than you realise once petrol, parking and tolls are included.
17. Watch your electricity usage.
Full washing-machine loads, cold washes, sensible heating/cooling and switching off standby appliances can reduce usage.
18. Track every expense for one month.
You’ll probably discover subscriptions, takeaway, impulse purchases or fees you didn’t realise were costing you money.
19. Don’t automatically increase your lifestyle when your salary increases.
Increase your savings first, then decide what you actually want to spend more on.
20. Create an emergency fund.
Moneysmart suggests working toward enough savings to cover around three months of expenses.
Lastly, use EatClub to save for dine-out and eventually gain dine credits!
https://links.eatclub.com.au/zQybmfVal3b
Try it with my link!
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📣 Disclaimer: Information shared is for general guidance only as part of my experience and may change over time. This is not immigration, legal, or professional advice. Please check official Australia website for current rules and processes. Thank you. 🤗
