Food
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Australians throw away 20% of the food they buy so having a meal plan (and sticking to it) can save lots.
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Make a list when you go to the supermarket (and stick to it).
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Avoid prepackaged food such as sliced cheese.
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Try to shop only once a week to reduce the chance of impulse buys.
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Look up the supermarket specials and meal plan around them for that week.
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Eat more veggies - we're not suggesting you turn vegetarian, but by replacing some meat with vegetables, you can save lots.
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Look at the lower shelves in the supermarket - this is where the generic brands are usually found, and they are cheaper than the branded items (and the ingredients are often exactly the same).
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Cut down on takeaway coffees. Get yourself a reusable takeaway coffee cup and make your own.
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Reduce the number of takeaway dinners you have. Here are some ideas that will be just as fast as ordering take out.
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Take leftovers to work for lunch rather than buying it.
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Try to avoid buying bottled water. Take a reusable water bottle with you when you go out - this will save you money and is much better for the environment.
Travel
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Keep an eye on your local petrol station to see which day fuel is the cheapest (it's usually the same each week).
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Use public transport if it's convenient. This will save on petrol, parking fees and wear and tear on your car.
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Walk more. You'll save money on travel and keep fit!
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Carpool with friends for taking the kids to school or going to work.
Bills and subscriptions
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Switch gas providers and save money - or speak to your existing provider and tell them you want the same deal as new customers.
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Do a house/contents and car insurance audit. Your rates will have increased over the years, and you could get a better deal.
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Phone your bank and ask for a discount on your home loan rate. Many banks would rather lower your rate than lose a customer.
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Have a look at how many streaming services you have and if you use all of them. You may find that they have some of the same content.
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Find a cheaper mobile phone plan - there are so many to choose from.
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Cancel your gym membership if you don't use it!
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Review your health insurance - you may be paying for services you no longer need.
Take advantage of free or low-cost items
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Love reading? Use the library rather than buying your books. These days they offer audio books, films, and magazines - all you need is a (free) library card.
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Search for your local Buy Nothing group on Facebook. This is where people from your community gift items they no longer need.
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Use charity or second-hand shops rather than buying something new.
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Look after your clothes properly and they will last much longer.
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If you have young children, join your local toy library. There will be an annual fee, but you will save lots on not buying new toys.
