Tips for cutting expenses

Helping you to spend less so there’s more for the things you really want.

If you’re looking for ways to save, there are lots of small things you can do that’ll really add up. Here are some ideas to get you started on finding great little ways to save.

Cut your water bill

  • Educate your household on how to save water by turning off the tap while brushing your teeth and washing dishes
  • For example, unless you’re using the water at that moment, turn it off
  • Discourage long, luxurious showers by putting a timer in the bathroom

Save on electricity

  • Turn off lights when you leave a room
  • Turn off appliances when you’re not using them

Cancel the extras on your phone bill

  • Things like call waiting, voicemail and caller ID can really add up - how much would you miss them if they were removed?

Get smart when grocery shopping

  • Buy more store brands than name brands, especially on things that aren’t that different
  • Plan your meals around what’s on special, especially when buying meat
  • Cooking from scratch is nearly always cheaper than buying food that is partially or completely pre-prepared
  • Find a local butcher and compare prices – a butcher can often be cheaper than the supermarket
  • Keep a price list of what it costs to buy things from different shops and you’ll soon see where you can make savings on groceries, especially fruit, veges, meat and fish.

Have fun in new ways

  • If you regularly splurge on restaurant meals, find a cheaper alternative like takeaway pizza and a rental movie
  • If wine and beer are hitting your budget hard, drink less – you’ll probably feel healthier as a result

Get out of your car

  • Catch the bus, ferry or train to work or school instead of driving the car – you’ll save on petrol and parking
  • You’ll save even more if you can cycle, or walk

Bring your own

  • Add up what you spend every week on little things like coffee, snacks and lunch
  • Think of alternatives, like bringing your lunch to work and keeping snacks like nuts, fruit and biscuits in a box at work

Go green and save

  • Reduce, re-use, recycle
  • Wherever possible use less of whatever it is you’re using