![Close up of hand pushing a shopping trolley in the grocery store.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER%20%2816%29.png)
Cost of Living Index
August 2024 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
Beforepay Cost of Living Index shows 7.3% drop in average daily spend for August, down to $65.74 from $70.55 in July following mid-year sales.
![A detailed image of a financial savings plan being created, including setting goals, assessing financial situation, and dividing income into categories like needs, wants, and savings.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER-1.jpg)
Managing my finances
Budgeting and saving
How to Create a Savings Plan That Works for You
Learn how to create a savings plan that works for you by setting clear financial goals, assessing your current situation, and managing your income. Discover a solid strategy that will guide you towards financial stability and help you achieve your goals.
![Person holding shopping bags as mid-year sales and school holidays drive Aussie spending up 12.1% in July](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER%20%2814%29.png)
Cost of Living Index
July 2024 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
Household spending surged 12.1% in July to $70.55, up from $62.91 in June, according to new figures from the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.
![Basket full of meal prep ingredients for article on What are some budget-friendly meal prep ideas](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/Grocery%20Shopping-1.png)
Managing my finances
What are some budget-friendly meal prep ideas?
Take a look at some budget-friendly meal prep ideas that could help you save on time and money.
![Paper cut-out of family standing in front of house and car for article on how major purchases could impact your tax return](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/14th%20July%20Newsletter-1.png)
Tax time tips
How major purchases could impact your tax return
Take a look at examples of some major purchases and the different ways they might impact the things you consider when lodging your tax return.
![A couple preparing to lodge their tax return](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER-2.png)
Tax time tips
How to avoid penalties when doing your tax return
Feel confident when lodging your tax return with these tips to stay on track and avoid penalties.
![Laptops on a bench in a store as the June 2024 Beforepay Cost of Living Index sees durable goods drive a 3.7% increase in daily average spend during the end of financial year](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/JulyBColi.png)
Cost of Living Index
June 2024 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
Beforepay Cost of Living Index reveals daily average spending jumps 3.7% as Australians splurge on durable goods during the end of financial year.
![Jars of savings with labels housing, savings and medical](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER%20%2813%29.png)
Managing my finances
Budgeting and saving
How to save money: 36 tips you could try to build your savings
Learn 36 practical ways for how to save money to help you boost your savings. From tracking expenses to negotiating bills, this article covers it all!
![A person pressing a light switch as utilities costs increases in Beforepay Cost of Living Index for May 2024](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/Beforepay%20Cost%20of%20Living%20Index%20May%202024-1.png)
Cost of Living Index
May 2024 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
Consumer spending shows a significant decrease of 4.09% month-on-month in May 2024 from an average of $63.28 to $60.69 per day, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.
![](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER%20%2811%29-1.png)
Managing my finances
Why should I care about the federal budget?
How does the federal budget really impact our daily lives? Read on to find out and for tips for how to navigate any changes.
![A person paying with her phone in a cafe as the Beforepay Cost of Living Index for April 20242 shows a 5% month-on-month increase in daily averages spending](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/Beforepay%20Cost%20of%20Living%20April%202024-1.png)
Cost of Living Index
April 2024 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
Consumer spending rebounds as the daily average spend jumps 5% month-on-month to $63.28 in April 2024, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.
![Beforepay released the March 2024 Cost of Living Index today, reveals consumer spending decreased by 0.82% month-on-month in March. The new data shows daily average spending dropped to $60.28 in March, down from $60.78 in February.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/March24COLbanner.png)
Cost of Living Index
March 2024 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
Beforepay released the March 2024 Cost of Living Index today, reveals consumer spending decreased by 0.82% month-on-month in March.
![Woman smiling holding her phone to apply for a pay advance](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER%20%2810%29.png)
Managing my finances
6 common myths about pay advances
Pay advances can serve as a reliable safety net when you find yourself facing unexpected expenses. Debunk these common myths about pay advances!
![A hat and clothes in a suitcase for a cheap holiday](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/How%20to%20keep%20holiday%20cheap.png)
Budgeting and saving
8 ways to keep your holidays cheap and budget-friendly
Explore 8 easy ways to keep your holiday budget-friendly! From smart spending to local eats, enjoy your vacation without the financial stress.
![The Beforepay Beat newsletter logo](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/Beforepay%20Beat%201.png)
Budgeting and saving
Ways to boost your financial independence
March 2024 Beforepay Beat highlights: Learn about debunking common homeownership myths and steps to help you increase your salary.
![Two people moving into their first home together](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER%20%283%29-Mar-18-2024-04-57-38-8364-AM.png)
Managing my finances
6 common myths about buying your first home
Ready to buy your first home? Don't fall for these common myths! Discover the reality about being a homeowner with our tips and insights.
![A couple discussing personal loans](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/Personal%20loan%20tips-1.png)
Managing my finances
Resources
Personal loan tips for first time borrowers
Navigate personal loans confidently with our guide for first-time borrowers. Explore tips on determining loan amounts, and finding the right option.
![A mother feeding her child while working from home after maternity leave.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/Maternity%20leave-1.png)
Managing my finances
Resources
Tips to ease your return to work after maternity leave
Get ready to return to work after maternity leave with our organised guide, including checklists for 30 days and 1 week before your return.
![](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER%20%285%29-3.png)
Cost of Living Index
February 2024 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
February sees 4.6% uplift in spending with a twist in Valentine's day habit, according to the February 2024 Beforepay Cost of Living.
![A couple sitting down talking about money together](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER%20%281%29-Feb-01-2024-06-51-43-4048-AM.png)
Managing my finances
How to talk about money with your partner
Learn how to talk about money in a relationship. Navigate financial discussions with tips for open communication and building a strong partnership.
![The Beforepay Beat newsletter logo](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/Beforepay%20Beat%201.png)
Budgeting and saving
Self-care and Valentine's Day on a budget
February 2024 Beforepay Beat highlights: Learn how to spot a romance scammer and self-care and financial independence on a budget.
![A man helping a woman with her computer skill training](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2-Feb-13-2024-04-32-48-5645-AM.png)
Managing my finances
How to increase your salary with career development and skill training
Boost income with career development and skill training! Get tips on setting goals, finding mentors, overcoming challenges, and enhancing job skills.
![Two people looking at a tablet organising their joint bank account together](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER%20%281%29-4.png)
Managing my finances
Resources
Should I open a joint bank account? Explore the pros and cons
Discover the pros and cons of joint bank accounts vs. separate finances. Find balance in managing money as a couple with our helpful insights.
![A man and a woman on an affordable Valentine's Day Date at the park](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER%20%281%29-2.png)
Budgeting and saving
Affordable Valentine's Day ideas under $50
Discover budget-friendly ways to spend Valentine's Day with these affordable ideas! From picnics to stargazing, celebrate love without breaking the bank.
![Close up of person putting credit card into wallet](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER%20%284%29-1.png)
Cost of Living Index
January 2024 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
Australians tighten their belts after the holidays with 10.2% spending decline in January, according to the January 2024 Beforepay Cost of Living Index.
![](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/Beforepay%20Beat%201.png)
Budgeting and saving
Kickstart your 2024 with financial resolutions
January 2024 Beforepay Beat highlights: Learn budgeting hacks for back to school and cheap holiday hacks to keep your wallet happy.
![Person saving money using a piggy bank](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/How%20to%20save%20on%20a%20low%20income-1.png)
Managing my finances
Budgeting and saving
How to save money on a low income
Discover budgeting tips for saving on a low income in Australia. Learn to manage spending, access government assistance, and build financial resilience.
![Back to school image with tables and chairs with stationery](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/Back%20to%20school%20blog%20banner-1.png)
Budgeting and saving
How to budget for back to school costs
Budget wisely for back to school costs with these tips, from early planning to discounts and finding smart ways to save on essentials.
![Cheap beach holiday destinations in Australia](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/Holiday%20destinations-1.png)
Managing my finances
Budgeting and saving
Cheap holidays in Australia
Discover wallet-friendly Australian getaways! Our list offers budget-friendly holiday options for your next memorable escape.
![Person with tablet and gifts on table holding a credit card](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER%20%286%29-1.png)
Cost of Living Index
December 2023 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
Australians spent $66 on Christmas 2023, fuelled by lower petrol prices, according to the December 2023 Beforepay Cost of Living Index.
![A woman baking as a side hustle](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/4-2.png)
Managing my finances
Side hustle jobs in Australia
Explore profitable side gigs in Australia! Find freelance jobs, part-time opportunities, and flexible work for extra income. Start your side hustle today.
![A man and woman staring at laptop planning their financial resolutions together](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER%20%286%29.png)
Budgeting and saving
Financial Resolutions A-Z
Dive into our A-Z financial resolutions for easy steps toward confidence and control, from emergency savings to meal prepping.
![The Beforepay Beat newsletter logo](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/Beforepay%20Beat%201.png)
Budgeting and saving
5 Ways to help you stick to your budget
November 2023 Beforepay Beat highlights: Learn about a quick hacks to help you stick to your Christmas budget and Ideas for making some extra cash over the holidays.
![Australian spending money using their credit card](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER%20%285%29-2.png)
Cost of Living Index
November 2023 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
Daily spending increased by 2.8% in November 2023 according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.
![Family celebrating a budget friendly Christmas at home](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER%20%284%29.png)
Budgeting and saving
How to manage your budget and spending over Christmas
Stick to your 2023 Christmas budget and manage your end of year spending with these smart money tips.
![](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/Cost%20of%20living%20October%202023.png)
Cost of Living Index
October 2023 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
Consumer spending declines 1.01% in October 2023 accroding to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.
![The Beforepay Beat newsletter logo](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/BLOG-BANNER%20%283%29.png)
4 ways to protect your finances
October 2023 Beforepay Beat highlights: Learn how to keep yourself safe online and why green cars have the cheapest car insurance.
![two women sitting down next to each other smiling](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/Brightened%20banner.png)
Managing my finances
Understanding different types of insurance
Explore situations where insurance is useful, the range of claims you can make, and the potential savings it can bring to your financial security.
![drawings of car, house and family](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2-4.png)
Managing my finances
6 steps to help you choose the right insurance
Choosing the right insurance can feel overwhelming. Here are 6 steps to help you understand what insurance is, types of coverages and key terms.
![Person paying with credit card on EFTPOS machine](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER%20%285%29.png)
Cost of Living Index
September 2023 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
Daily average spending down 1.3% in September 2023 as petrol prices rise, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.
![Man filling up car at petrol station](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER%20%283%29-1.png)
Budgeting and saving
Popular
7 apps to help you find cheap petrol
Looking for cheap petrol near you? Here are 7 apps that could help you save the next time you plan to fill up.
![The Beforepay Beat newsletter logo](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/BLOG-BANNER%20%283%29.png)
Things you need to know about cybersecurity
September 2023 Beforepay Beat highlights: Common signs something might be a scam and tips for staying safe when shopping online.
![Using finger print on phone](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/B4P_BLOG-BANNER%20%283%29.png)
Managing my finances
Keeping your information safe online: A Q&A with Beforepay CTO Rajini Carpenter
We sat down with Beforepay’s Chief Technology Officer, Rajini Carpenter, to break down what cybersecurity is and tips for keeping your information safe!
![Close up of a fuel pump filing car with petrol.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/93.png)
Cost of Living Index
August 2023 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
Daily average spending declines 4.9% in August 2023, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.
![A woman typing on her laptop](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%2813%29.png)
Resources
Cybersecurity terms A-Z
From anti-virus protection to zero-day exploits, learn key cybersecurity terms to protect yourself from online scams and threats when using the internet.
![The Beforepay Beat newsletter logo](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/BLOG-BANNER%20%283%29.png)
Ways you could make extra money without quitting your job
August 2023 Beforepay Beat highlights: Simple and stress-free ways to make extra cash, and things you could rent out to make some extra money.
![A girl with a thumbs up sign with a logo of Beforepay and Finder Award.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/image.png)
Budgeting and saving
Beforepay highly commended in Finder Awards 2023
Beforepay has been highly commended in the Finder Customer Satisfaction Awards 2023, rated by real customers with real experiences.
![A girl smiling holding her phone, a laptop and boxes on her desk.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%287%29-3.png)
Managing my finances
Ways to earn extra money that work with your schedule
Explore simple and creative ways you could make extra money, from growing your savings to starting a side hustle.
![Close up of phone held near EFTPOS machine to process payment](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%2834%29.png)
Cost of Living Index
July 2023 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
Daily spending rose by 10.6% from $58.88 in June 2023 to $65.13 in July 2023, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.
![The Beforepay Beat newsletter logo](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/BLOG-BANNER%20%283%29.png)
Tips for navigating job loss and changes
July 2023 Beforepay Beat highlights: Chance to win $500 with Beforepay, and tips to help you navigate job loss.
![A man holding a box with his things](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/88.png)
Managing my finances
4 Tips to help you navigate job loss
Explore strategies, resources and support to overcome the challenges of job loss and navigate career transitions effectively.
![Paying with a card](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%283%29-2.png)
Cost of Living Index
June 2023 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
Daily spending rose by 6.1% from $55.49 in May 2023 to $58.88 in June 2023, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.
![The Beforepay Beat newsletter logo](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/BLOG-BANNER%20%283%29.png)
Getting the most out of tax time
June 2023 Beforepay Beat highlights: Unlock early access to your tax refund, and tips to get the most out of your tax return.
![The Beforepay Beat newsletter logo](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/BLOG-BANNER%20%283%29.png)
Prepare for the unexpected with an emergency fund
May 2023 Beforepay Beat highlights: The importance of an emergency fund, cost of living in April, and how to send more money overseas with Beforepay and Western Union.
![Two women sitting by a window](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER-1.png)
Resources
Financial Support and Resources
See what support services and resources are available to help you manage your money and financial well-being.
![Woman holding a pen smiling as she learns how to maximise her tax return](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/81.png)
Tax time tips
How to maximise your tax return
Learn how you could maximise your tax return with these 7 things you can do when you lodge your tax return this year.
![Three people smiling about being able to get a tax refund loan advance in Australia](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/82-2.png)
Tax time tips
How to access your tax refund in advance with Beforepay and H&R Block
Why wait weeks for your tax refund? Get your tax refund sooner with a Tax Refund Advance through Beforepay and H&R Block Australia.
![Vegetables at the checkout in a grocery store](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/Groceries%201-1.png)
Cost of Living Index
May 2023 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
Spending fell in May 2023, with the average daily spending for Australians down 5.7% from $58.84 to $55.49, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.
![Man with a calculator preparing to lodge his tax return](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%285%29-1.png)
Tax time tips
How to start preparing to lodge your tax return
Get a head start on your taxes with our guide on preparing for your lodge tax return. This article provides tips to make the process easier.
![Trolley with shopping bag](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%289%29.png)
Cost of Living Index
April 2023 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
April saw a 2.9% month-on-month increase in the daily cost of living, up to $58.84 from $57.17 in March, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.
![Putting coin in a jar beside a miniature house](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%2830%29-1.png)
Managing my finances
Budgeting and saving
Why you should think about saving money for an emergency fund
Learn why having an emergency fund is crucial and how it can benefit you. Find out tips and strategies to start saving for unexpected events.
![Couple looking at phone.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%284%29-1.png)
Managing my finances
How do I choose an international money transfer service?
How to send money overseas and find the best international money transfer service, with tips from Western Union.
![The Beforepay Beat newsletter logo](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/BLOG-BANNER%20%283%29.png)
Start taking charge of your living expenses
April 2023 Beforepay Beat highlights: Grocery items costing more and how you could save, cost of living drops in March, and tips for managing rising rent.
![Shopping basket with grocery items in a supermarket aisle.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%2828%29.png)
Cost of Living Index
March 2023 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
March saw a 1.8% month-on-month decrease in the daily cost of living, down to $57.17 from $58.23 in February, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.
![Hand holding a phone with an online grocery on the screen.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%2827%29.png)
Budgeting and saving
Why your grocery bill is costing more
Why grocery shopping has become expensive amid the rising cost of living, and things you can do to save money on your groceries.
![Small model of a house with 6 stacks of gold coins in a row to the left.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/banner-rent-March-2023.png)
Managing my finances
8 ways to ease the stress of rising rent prices
Are you feeling the pressure of the rental crisis and rising rent in Australia? Learn 8 practical ways to save money and ease the cost of living stress.
![The Beforepay Beat newsletter logo](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/BLOG-BANNER%20%283%29.png)
Get to financial independence with these tips
March 2023 highlights from The Beforepay Beat: How to feel confident about your finances, tips to keep your debt under control, and utilities prices driving up the average daily cost of living.
![Man and woman sitting in front of a laptop.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%2824%29.png)
Managing my finances
6 ways you can manage your debt
These 6 simple practices could help you make informed decisions about your financial future and provide ways to get better at managing your debt.
![Person holding a mobile phone and a bill](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%2826%29.png)
Cost of Living Index
February 2023 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
February saw a 2.5% month-on-month increase in the daily cost of living, up to $58.23 from $56.83 in January, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.
![](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/BLOG-BANNER%20%283%29.png)
Salary boosting strategies & Popular ways to spend on Valentine’s Day
Highlights from the February 2023 edition of The Beforepay Beat newsletter: Tips to boost your salary, in-demand skills and a snapshot of spending on Valentine's Day!
![Apartment building](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%2823%29.png)
Cost of Living Index
January 2023 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
The average daily cost of living has fallen by 8% month-on-month from $62.02 in December 2022 to $56.83 in January 2023, a 1.6% increase year on year.
![Young man wearing glasses sitting in front of a computer while studying.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%2816%29.png)
Managing my finances
8 questions to ask yourself about HELP loans
Learn how you can access financial support for education, including what you need to know about HELP loans, as well as alternative study loan options.
![Young female professional in front of glass meeting room doors in the office.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%2820%29.png)
Managing my finances
4 steps that could help increase your salary
Find out how you might be able to increase your salary, from asking for a pay rise and navigating salary negotiations to upskilling to boost your earning potential.
![Get financially fit with a 7 Day Savings Challenge](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%2815%29.png)
Managing my finances
Get financially fit with our 7 day savings challenge
Take on our 7 Day Savings Challenge to boost your savings and start positive money management habits that you can take into the year ahead!
![Shopping centre in Australia during the Christmas holidays](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%2821%29.png)
Cost of Living Index
December 2022 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
Australians saw a surge in spending on Boxing Day, with the average person spending $448.38. In December 2022, the daily cost of living for the average Australian increased by just 2.5% to $62.02.
![Adjusting air conditioner temperature could help with savings on your electricity bill.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/Banner-Dec22Blog-ElectricityBills-1.png)
Budgeting and saving
How to save on your electricity bill in summer
Rising energy prices could mean higher electricity bills. See how much Aussies spend on their electricity bills and how you could save money on yours.
![](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/BLOG-BANNER%20%283%29.png)
*NEW* Compare and Save with Beforepay
Highlights from the November/December 2022 edition of The Beforepay Beat newsletter: Introducing Beforepay's new Compare and Save platform + a chance to win $500 with our Christmas Giveaway.
![New data shows the daily cost of living for the average Australian in November 2022 increased by only 1% over the month to $60.48.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%2811%29.png)
Cost of Living Index
November 2022 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
New data shows the daily cost of living for the average Australian in November 2022 increased by only 1% over the month to $60.48. This represents an increase from $59.78 in October 2022 and from $60.23 in November 2021.
![A lady holding shopping bags](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%288%29.png)
Budgeting and saving
Ideas for doing Christmas and New Year on a budget
Thinking about how to keep your finances in check over Christmas and New Year? Stick to your budget and save with these money tips!
![](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/BLOG-BANNER%20%283%29.png)
Aussies are spending 9.2% more on utility bills💡 Bank fees to avoid paying 🏦 The accidental invention of the piggy bank 🐷
Highlights from the October/November edition of The Beforepay Beat newsletter: 9.2% increase in utility bills leads jump in daily spending for October 2022, bank fees costing Australia billions (and how to avoid paying them!), and the history of the piggy bank!
![Daily spending for the average Australian increased to $61.41 in October 2022, up 4.4% from $58.81 in September 2022, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%287%29.png)
Cost of Living Index
October 2022 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
Rising utility prices and grocery bills are consuming Australian wages as new Beforepay data shows the daily cost of living increased 1.6% to $59.78 in October 2022 from $58.81 in September.
![Stack of credit cards on a laptop](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%2833%29.png)
Popular
What are bank fees and why should you care?
Bank fees are costing Australians billions of dollars ever year. Here are some common bank fees to be aware of and ways to avoid paying them and save.
![](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%284%29.png)
Budgeting and saving
5 Steps to manage your financial wellbeing
Try these 5 steps for managing your financial wellbeing to build resilience and gain confidence and control when it comes to your money.
![](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/BLOG-BANNER%20%283%29.png)
Daily spending drops to $58.81 in September 💡 Win with our Halloween Contest! 🎃
Australia's daily spending drops 29% in September but is up 1.6% annually. Money insights, tips and more in the latest edition of The Beforepay Beat.
![Daily spending for the average Australian dropped 29% in September 2022 to $58.81, from $83.27 in August, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%283%29-1.png)
Cost of Living Index
September 2022 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
Daily spending for the average Australian dropped 29% in September 2022 to $58.81, from $83.27 in August, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.
![Save money and free up your budget by reviewing your subscriptions.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%282%29-1.png)
Managing my finances
Budgeting and saving
4 Reasons to spring clean your subscriptions and how to do it
If you’re looking for ways to save money amid inflation and rising costs, reviewing your subscriptions might be a good place to start.
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Daily spending jumps 25% in August
The rising cost of living sees daily spending jump 25% to $83.27 in August 2022. Money insights, tips and more in the latest edition of The Beforepay Beat.
![Petrol and auto spending fluctuates as the cost of living in Australia changes.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER.png)
Cost of Living Index
August 2022 Beforepay Cost of Living Index
The daily cost of living for the average Australian jumped 18.2% in July, to $66.46 per day. The figure is drawn from the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.
![Woman holding a credit card next to her phone](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/BLOG-BANNER_08.2022_CC-v-POD-1.png)
Popular
Why Australians are swapping out their credit cards
A comparison of Pay On Demand™ and credit cards reveals why more people are choosing Pay On Demand™ as the ethical, customer-friendly way to access cash.
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Cost of Living Index
July 2022 - Beforepay Cost of Living Index
The daily cost of living for the average Australian jumped 18.2% in July, to $66.46 per day. The figure is drawn from the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.
![](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/BLOG-BANNER%20%283%29.png)
Introducing The Beforepay Beat
Introducing The Beforepay Beat - our new newsletter and your source for the latest tips and updates to help you stay on track and in control of your finances!
![Man wearing a hard hat is smiling while standing in front of heavy machinery.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/BLOG-BANNER-1.png)
Tax time tips
6 clever ways to use your tax refund
Make your tax refund go further with these smart and creative ways to spend or save what you get back from your tax return.
![A](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/BlogHeader_Tax_July2022.png)
Tax time tips
6 steps to help you maximise your tax return
Prepare to lodge and maximise your tax return with these tips we’ve pulled together with help from the tax experts, H&R Block.
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Managing my finances
How to navigate financial stress
Financial decisions can feel big and overwhelming. Learn about what is financial stress and how to navigate it to help you take back control of your finances.
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2021 Black Friday sales hot deals and bargains
Are you ready to start your Black Friday sales shopping? We’re here to help make the sales as stress-free as possible, by providing a running list of deals and bargains. Here is our LIVE: Black Friday sales hot deals and bargains!
![Woman smiling against solid pink background with yellow flames](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/2022_BLOG-BANNER%20%2835%29.png)
Resources
Money terms A-Z
Understanding financial terminology can be confusing. Check out our Money terms A-Z to help you take back control of your finances.
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Budgeting and saving
5 tips to manage the rising cost of living
A look at how the rising cost of living is impacting everyday working Australians, and money management tips to help.
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Financial Literacy: What is it and why is it important?
How simple, everyday habits can help you improve your financial literacy, manage your money better, and take back control of your finances.
![Saving for the Easter long weekend - Beforepay](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/desktop.png)
Budgeting and saving
Saving for the long weekend
The Easter long weekend is just around the corner. Check out these planning tips to help you make the most of your budget and time this long weekend.
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Budgeting and saving
10 Easy ways to save money every day
Budget planning and money management are useful life skills. Here are 10 easy ways to save money every day to help you take back control of your finances.
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Managing my finances
How to handle big money decisions
Financial decisions can feel big and overwhelming. Learn how to handle big money decisions to help you take back control of your finances.
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Budgeting and saving
How to cut your weekly grocery shopping costs
The weekly grocery shop can be daunting and overwhelming for some. Here are our tips and tricks to cut down your weekly grocery shopping costs to help you take back control of your finances.
![a glass filled with coins and a plant growing out of it.](https://blog.beforepay.com.au/hubfs/Blog%20Templates%20%28Mobile%20%26%20List%29%20%28505%20x%20320%20px%29%20%282%29.png)
Budgeting and saving
4 Steps you need in your life for building a budget
Still using Excel spreadsheets to do your budget planning? Here are four steps you need in your life for building a budget to help you take back control of your finances.