The Telegraph reported on August 2 that Australians are facing pressure from the rising cost of living and are forced to cut spending.
As food, gasoline and electricity prices continue to rise, many households have had to revisit their insurance policies and even switch internet and energy providers.
Transurban surveyed more than 3,000 people, and the results showed that 62% of respondents cited groceries as their biggest concern, followed by gasoline (51%) and electricity (45%).
(Image source: The Telegraph)
Recent data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) shows that household monthly spending on hotels, cafes and restaurants has fallen by 13% since the end of 2023, slightly more than the decline in total spending.
Against the backdrop of soaring oil prices, drivers received some good news. Transurban, Australia's largest toll road operator, is offering drivers with active Linkt accounts a 12 cents per litre fuel discount through its loyalty rewards programme, which ends this weekend.
Chris Jackson, Customer Experience Manager at Transurban, said: "Fuel costs are a big part of a family's budget, so we're providing millions of dollars in free fuel. ”
(Image source: The Telegraph)
He adds, "We're also updating our trip comparison tool so that users can quickly and easily choose trips that save time and fuel." ”
The study also found that households' concerns about insurance premiums have increased by 10% over the past two years. Today, nearly half of Australians are willing to switch insurers for better value for money.
At the 3rd Space Temporary Service Centre in Brisbane, there has been a noticeable increase in demand.
(Image source: The Telegraph)
These services include low-cost cafes, showers and laundry, which have been used by more than 22,600 homeless people in the past year.
Lesley Leece, CEO of 3rd Space, said: "More and more people need help this year, including families who cannot afford three meals. ”
She also noted that "even some people you may not think need help, such as nurses and construction workers, who are not paid enough to make ends meet and can't even afford gas." ”
Julian Finch, chief financial expert, said that while there is no way to avoid rising prices for essential goods, there are ways to reduce spending.
(Image source: The Telegraph)
"Adapt to these changes, and when things get better, we'll be able to respond more securely and benefit from them," Finch said. Reducing waste is one of the most effective ways to save money, he said.
"We need to identify all the expenses in our monthly bank account and decide which ones are necessary."
"It's a great opportunity to carefully review all of our spending and make decisions out of necessity."
He advises consumers to buy groceries during the new week specials that start every Wednesday at the supermarket.
"Some items can be sold at half price, so you can save a lot of money by buying essentials during special deals."
*For how to claim the fuel discount:*
1. Check the "Rewards" tab in the Linkt app to see if you're eligible.
2. Scan the barcode for a 12 cents per litre discount in the Shell Coles Express or Reddy Express app. Eligible customers can claim until 11:59 p.m. on August 4.