DID you withdraw $50 from the bank on a Monday and wonder on Thursday where it went?
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That was the question posed to about 30 attendees at the Stretch Your Dollar Day forum at the CWA Hall on Tuesday.
Participants heard from a representative of the Energy Ombudsman on how to save on bills and the Department of Human Services about government payments they might be eligible for and how to avoid scams.
For TAFE student Robi Whiteley, who is currently completing work placement in community services, electricity bills were her main concern.
“It’s very expensive,” she said.
“But I learned that [appliances] with the little light on can cost $240 a year.”
Coleen Gander said her tight budget meant she had to save on food, but she expected financial advice she received during the day would help her free her budget.
Anne Yates from the Saver Plus Program took participants through money diaries, asking them to write down their every expense during the past week and encouraged them to maintain it to detect spending trends.
She pointed out buying a coffee every day cost $1800 a year.
“That’s a voluntary choice,” she said.
“Without a spending diary, you don’t know a choice is available to you.”
She said she was able to cut her coffee spend to $200 by buying a plunger from Vinnies and keeping coffee beans in the office.
Human Services multicultural service officer Rochelle Thompson said technology could often save people money.
“People have said they haven’t had to spend an hour in the car going to the Centrelink office, so that’s time and petrol money they save,” she said.
Orange City Council community development co-ordinator Karen Boyd said finances were not an easy topic to talk about, but the day had successfully allowed participants to reflect on their spending.
MONEY-SAVING TIPS
- Decide what your spending priorities are and avoid spending money on unnecessary wants.
- Be aware of rebates you may be eligible for.
- Ensure appliances and plumbing are in good working order to save on utility bills.
- Shop around for the best deal, even call your current supplier.
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