I think budgeting is a pressing matter for just about every family this year, so if you're having trouble making the budget work, try some of these:
- Have another look at what's coming into the house and what's going out, write out a detailed budget. www.moneyminded.com.au has lots of budgeting tips as well as budget worksheets.
- Treat money spent on a credit card like you paid cash for it. That way you won't keep building up a debt that you can't service.
- Don't buy lunches, pack them at home to save money. Try offering different things from sandwiches everyday, like leftover pizza and even mini quiche made from eggs, ham and puff pastry.
- If you're having trouble with your rent or mortgage, get help early and find a financial counsellor or take a look at this website - www.capaust.org which offers financial counselling through local churches that comes to you.
- Make a shopping list and shop just once a week. Get really good at turning leftovers into something else and using those cans at the back of the cupboard. If you're still having trouble buying food, contact a local emergency relief group or food bank, or talk to your local church.
- Cut down on takeaways which aren't as filling and cost more per meal. Make homemade food takeaway by eating it somewhere else, like in the backyard on a picnic rug or at the park.
- Buy treats like chocolate, alcohol and takeaways at the end of the fortnight or month, when you know you can afford them. Use them as a reward for sticking to your budget.
- Clean up around you house and see if you've got anything that's no longer needed but could do quite well on ebay or in the Weekend Shopper. Even getting a few dollars can help and having a tidier home can lift the spirits no end.
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