As the mercury soars during the Australian summers, so does the reliance on air conditioning to keep our homes cool and comfortable. However, with the rising energy costs, relying solely on air conditioning units can burn a hole in your pocket. This article explores various eco-friendly and cost-effective alternatives to air conditioning, helping you stay cool without the hefty electricity bills.

The Natural Methods

Keeping your home cool naturally is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly. With a little creativity and some minor adjustments, you can significantly reduce the indoor temperature of your home without resorting to air conditioning. Here are some tried and tested natural methods to cool your home: ... (read more)

As wearable technology gains more traction among consumers, smartwatches have emerged as a popular choice for those seeking to monitor their fitness, stay connected on-the-go, and receive notifications. However, with so many options available, choosing the right smartwatch can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll delve into some of the most commonly asked questions about selecting a smartwatch. ... (read more)

Based on my experience of moving multiple times in the last 15 years, calculating the cost of moving house in Australia (including the removalist cost) can depend on a range of factors such as the distance of the move, the size of your home, the amount of items you need to move, and the services you require. Here are some general steps you can follow to estimate the cost of moving house in Australia. ... (read more)

Buying a second-hand fridge can be a great way to save money on a major appliance purchase. However, it’s important to make sure that you’re getting a good deal on a fridge that will last. Here are seven tips to help you make an informed decision when buying a second-hand fridge.

In the last 10 years, fridges have evolved significantly in terms of design, functionality, and energy efficiency. Many models now have features such as smart technology, touch screens, and Wi-Fi connectivity. There has also been a focus on energy efficiency, with more models achieving higher ratings on the Energy Rating Label. In addition, there has been a move towards more sustainable materials and production methods, reflecting an increasing awareness of environmental issues. Overall, fridges have become more advanced and energy-efficient, with a greater focus on technology and sustainability. ... (read more)

Living a frugal lifestyle in the era of social media, where everyone flaunts what they have and where they’ve travelled to, can be quite challenging—but there’s nothing great about living paycheque to paycheque either.

If you aren’t conscious about your spending, you might end up accumulating credit card debt. It will only eat away at your limited earnings as well as the money you’ve set aside for emergencies. As a result, it can easily compromise your financial future. ... (read more)

Australia is known for the hottest summers in the world. Sadly, these summers are not just bound to get even warmer, thanks to climate change – they’re projected to become twice as long as the winter season too.

This year alone, temperatures are expected to break record highs. You’ll need to make the necessary preparations to keep you and your family cool for the summer months. But with electricity costs skyrocketing, how can you stave off the heat without breaking the bank over your electric bill? ... (read more)

A growing number of Australians believe that it’s about time for people to stop feeling pressured about gift-giving. This year, they’re reducing the budget they’re allotting for presents and are opting to celebrate the Christmas season for what it’s truly about. 

You can still have a fun Christmas even if you haven’t saved a lot of money for Christmas shopping. After all, how you spend the holiday with your loved ones can be more memorable than any of the gift they might receive. ... (read more)

It used to be that people bought their phone under contract from their phone company. By signing an agreement with their telco which covered a couple of years, people secured themselves the latest iPhone and enough minutes and data to keep them going. When the contract was up, they upgraded to a new phone and the whole thing began again.

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Surviving on a low income isn’t easy in times when the cost of everything is rising faster than the average wage. Financial obligations can be frustrating and fraught with uncertainty even with proper money management, while saving money can seem almost impossible during lean times. People who want to budget and save money on a low income do have options, but creative thinking is required and diligence is essential.

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