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TopicAustralia's cost of living is soaring and many of us are feeling the pinch. Whether you're trying to cut down what you spend on food and appliances or even insurance, our budgeting tips and advice can help you be a savvy spender.
Food and shopping
Make the most of what you spend on groceries with these tips for keeping costs low and reducing household waste.
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Everything you need to know for Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2024
Our guide to this year's season of these popular sales. -
Is it worth buying groceries in bulk from Costco, Amazon, Officeworks or Catch?
We compared prices on 100 grocery products – here’s what we found. Plus, tips for bulk buying and saving money on your shop. -
Cheapest fruit & veg: Fresh, frozen or tinned?
Can you save at the supermarket by swapping fresh produce for tinned and frozen? -
Is a Costco membership worth it?
We look at whether you'll get great deals or if it's all just a jumbo-sized novelty. -
How do supermarket own-brand frozen chips stack up?
They’re cheap as chips, but these options from Aldi, Coles, Woolies and IGA may not be worth your oven space. -
Best value bathroom buys
The budget-friendly tissues, toilet paper and bathroom cleaning products that performed well in our testing. -
Is it worth buying an espresso machine?
Looking to shave more off your budget? We weigh up the cost of buying an espresso machine vs buying your coffee from a cafe. -
7 ways to save money feeding your kids
With grocery prices a major household concern, feeding hungry mouths can get stressful. We share some tips to help you save. -
The home-brand products that outperform the big brands
CHOICE testing reveals how you can get more for less with own-brand products from the major supermarkets. -
Can refillable products save you money?
We compare refillable products at Aldi, Coles and Woolworths to see what your options are and how much you can save. -
5 money-saving lunchbox hacks
Convenience is king when it comes to school lunches, but just a little extra work can save a lot of money. -
How to save money on movie tickets
Going to the cinema doesn't have to break the bank. -
How to op shop like a pro and save money in 2024
Think op shopping is just for clothes? Think again. Here’s how to save money on plenty of practical items. -
10 tips to help you save on your fresh fruit and veg
Spend less on fresh produce with these tips and tricks. -
Why sticking to one supermarket is costing you money
You could save 40% by splitting your grocery shop between Coles, Aldi, Woolies and others. -
The pantry heroes that can help you save
These low cost pantry staples can help you create delicious and nutritious meals on a budget. -
The cheapest baked beans with a winning taste
Buying beans on a budget? Here are the brands that deliver the tastiest beans for your buck. -
Top ways to save money you never thought of
Expert advice and research-backed tips on how to save on groceries, food, electricity and more. -
Smart grocery swaps to save you money
A few switches in your shopping basket can save you hundreds or even thousands on your annual grocery bill. -
9 expensive habits you need to break if you want to save money
These common behaviours might be really costing you. -
Can refillable products save you money?
We compare refillable products at Aldi, Coles and Woolworths to see what your options are and how much you can save. -
Are your online groceries priced correctly?
We look at IGA, FoodWorks and Harris Farm Markets to see how compliant they are with unit pricing requirements. -
Food storage mistakes costing you money (and wasting food)
Follow these tips to get the most out of your grocery budget. -
How to reduce food waste with your kitchen appliances
The gadgets you choose and how you use them can have a big impact on the environment – and save you money. -
How unit pricing can help you save
Take a closer look at supermarket pricing labels to see where you can save. -
Cheapest BBQ groceries: Woolies, Coles or Aldi?
We compare the price of a basket of barbecue essentials. -
Easy swaps to save you money in the kitchen
Changing the way you do things in the kitchen can be economical – and help the environment. -
14 ways to reduce food waste at home
Smarter ways to shop, store and cook your food, to save money and help the planet. -
Best reusable food pouches for children
We trial reusable food pouches from brands including Cherub Baby, ChooMee and Sinchies.
Around the home
Don't spend more than you need to – here's how to save water and energy so you can be kinder to both the environment and your wallet.
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The cheap dishwasher detergent that beats the big-name brands
We reveal the super saver that'll make your dishes sparkle for a sixth of the price of big-name detergents. -
Beauty and the beef: Why (and how) I started making my own tallow moisturiser
Sick of shelling out for high-end skincare, I decided to go back to basics by making my own – the old fashioned way. -
The laundry products that are a waste of your money
Clean up your budget by scrubbing these money-wasters off your shopping list. -
What are the cheapest and best ways to keep warm in bed?
Feeling the chill when you rest your weary head? Here’s how to stay warm overnight when you're on a budget. -
How to cut your laundry costs by more than $970 a year
These simple tricks will save you money on electricity, water, detergent and more. -
The clothes dryers that are cheapest to run
The models that won't dry up your bank balance while they dry your clothes. -
How your freezer can help save you money
From batch cooking to stretching the life of ingredients, your freezer can help keep your food budget in check. -
Washing hacks to save you time, water and money
From tricks with vinegar to reusing greywater, these simple tips will make washing and cleaning a breeze. -
Is it worth buying an espresso machine?
Looking to shave more off your budget? We weigh up the cost of buying an espresso machine vs buying your coffee from a cafe. -
The food storage mistakes costing you money – and wasting food
Follow these tips to get the most out of your grocery budget. -
Dishwasher or washing by hand – which uses more water?
You might think washing up in the sink would use less water than a dishwasher – but does it really? -
5 top money-saving tips for spring
It’s a new season, so it’s time to give your spending habits a spring clean and find out where you can make savings. -
6 money-saving tips for using your dryer
When line drying isn't an option, here's how to use your clothes dryer without breaking the bank. -
How to reduce your home heating costs
If you've had a nasty energy bill or are just looking for ways to cheaply avoid the chill, follow our expert advice. -
How to switch to the best electricity provider
Get a better deal and keep more money in your pocket. -
How much can you save by choosing a water-efficient washing machine?
Spending a little more upfront can actually save you water and money over time. -
How to save money on your home heating and cooling costs
These expert tips will help you keep a lid on your electricity bill in both winter and summer. -
How ceiling fans can slash your winter heating costs
Running a fan and heater together can cut costs by more than half, our test reveals. -
The impact of energy-efficient appliances
Your choice of appliance – and how you use it – can cut your energy use and bills. -
How to keep energy costs down on your home entertainment system
You can save on your power bills by choosing the right device. -
How to buy the best solar panels for your home
What you need to know before you install. -
Four steps to get started with solar
Our expert guide answers all your solar questions. -
How to avoid power-hungry kitchen appliances
Choose the right appliance to help cut your energy costs. -
The cost of leaving appliances on standby
How much are you paying each year to leave your appliances in standby mode? -
5 ways to reduce household energy use
Here’s how you can save money – and the environment – by reducing your household energy use and carbon footprint. -
Six ways to keep the heat in
Simple changes you can make to keep the warmth in and the cold out.
Home energy saver quiz
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Can you save on energy?
Start making savings for the planet and your pocket
Take our quiz to find out how you can save on your home energy costs.
Splurge vs save
Bigger doesn't always mean better – especially when it comes to price. Our lab testing reveals the budget buys that outshine their costly opponents.
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Splurge vs save: Barbecues
We compare some pricier grills with cheaper counterparts to help you buy a better barbie this season. -
Splurge vs save: Dishwashers
We test models with vastly different price tags to see which one really performs best. -
Splurge vs save: Electric heaters
The budget heaters that ranked alongside more expensive ones in our tests. -
Splurge vs save: Air fryers
Our tests show some budget buys can outperform models more than twice their price. -
Splurge vs save: Coffee machines
Bigger price tags don't always equal better-tasting coffee, our tests reveal. -
Splurge vs save: Microwaves
Smeg vs Kmart, Miele vs Panasonic – our experts reveal the surprising microwave winners. -
Splurge vs save: Stick blenders
We compare some pricier stick blenders with cheaper models to help you buy better. -
Splurge vs save: Washing machines
We compare expensive and affordable top loaders and front loaders to help you choose the best. -
Splurge vs save: Robot vacuums
Why pay more for a clean floor when a cheaper model can do the job just as well? -
Splurge vs save: Fridges
If you're looking for a new fridge in the Black Friday sales, there are cheaper alternatives that don't cost a fortune. -
Splurge vs save: Stick vacuums
Choosing wisely can save you hundreds of dollars, without compromising on performance. -
Splurge vs save: Toasters
Don't get burnt paying too much for a toaster when a budget one may perform just as well.
Health insurance
Looking after your health doesn't need to mean draining your savings. Use our expert advice to land yourself a better health insurance deal (or ditch it altogether!)
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Best extras health insurance policies for under $15 a month
The best cheap health insurance policies to help you save money on dental and physio appointments. -
Cheapest health insurance for pregnancy and birth
Do you need health insurance to have a baby? We compare public versus private care, and reveal the best policies. -
Should you ditch your health insurance and pay for procedures yourself?
Top-level health insurance in Australia is so expensive that for some procedures, it's cheaper to self fund your private hospital stay. -
The most expensive health insurance policies to avoid
If you hold one of these overpriced policies, it's time to switch. You could save yourself over $1500. -
5 steps to better, cheaper health insurance
Bupa, Medibank, HBF and NIB will increase premiums by more than the average on 1 April. -
Do you need health insurance?
We look at whether private health insurance will save you money at tax time. -
Tips to save money on extras insurance
How to get the best-value cover for extras like dental, optical and physio. -
Health insurance premiums to increase by 3.03% on 1 April
Find out how you could secure your current health insurance price until 2025. -
'I saved $1800 by switching my private health insurance'
CHOICE writer Pru Engel didn't pay much attention to her health insurance payments... till she was about to get ripped off. -
Is health insurance for tax a rip-off?
Basic policies from Medibank, Bupa and HCF can help with tax, but are they value for money? -
How to avoid out-of-pocket healthcare costs
Tips on how to get cheaper health care and negotiating with your surgeon. -
Bad health insurance deals: Medibank, Bupa, HCF, HBF, NIB
We name the poor-value health insurance policies from Australia's big private health funds. -
Save up to $1870 by switching health insurance
Save money, time and confusion with our expert advice and policy comparison tool. -
Should you buy health insurance before 30 June?
Is there really a 'deadline' to buy health insurance after you turn 31? Here's what you need to know. -
Cheapest Basic health insurance policies to save on tax
These policies from HCF, HBF, Westfund, AIA and HCI will save you money, but don't rely on them for health cover. -
Do you have one of these overpriced Bronze health cover policies?
Australia's most expensive Bronze health insurance policies. -
Dump these rip-off Silver Plus health insurance policies
Many Silver Plus hospital policies cost more than some Gold policies and provide less cover. -
Are you paying too much for Gold health insurance?
Dump these overpriced Gold policies and lock in better cover. -
Bad value extras health insurance
Is it worth paying for a top-shelf extras policy? -
How to save money on medicine
Does the cost of medicine make you feel ill? Reduce your costs with these simple tips.
Be money wise
There's never been a better time to take charge of your finances and make money moves.
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Why the best banks for saving aren't the ones you'd expect
Most deposit accounts offering the best rates come from little-known institutions. -
Can you rely on AI for money advice?
We asked Meta, Google and ChatGPT for financial help. Here's what happened -
How to save $7200 this year
Our CHOICE experts explain how a few simple steps could help you save thousands. -
The top five ways to save money on your renters contents insurance
Find out how much you can save by switching insurers or increasing your excess, plus more money-saving tips. -
The cost-saving measures that don't work
These budgeting strategies might seem like they'll slash your bills, but unfortunately the savings just don't add up. -
Finfluencers and your super
The rise of finfluencers highlights a need for accessible and reliable financial advice. -
How to save money on car insurance
Pay less for car insurance with our expert tips. -
How to find the best account and switch banks
If you're paying high fees, it's time to demand a better deal from your bank – or bid it farewell. -
Top high interest savings accounts
Earning peanuts on your savings? Find out where you could be getting more for your money. -
Government cost-of-living payments worth knowing about
From childcare concessions to payments following the death of a loved one, there's help available, so see if you qualify. -
The best fee-free bank accounts
Getting stung just for keeping your money in the bank? Free yourself from fees with these wallet-friendly transaction options. -
Low-interest credit cards
Why pay high rates with CBA, NAB, ANZ and Westpac? -
How to compare super funds
Five simple tips to keep in mind when shopping for a super fund. -
How to find the best financial planner
Before you pay an adviser, make sure they're putting your needs first.
Worst-performing products
We scientifically test appliances of all sorts in our labs and rate how well they work so you'll never waste your money on a dud again.
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Electric kettles to avoid buying
Don't settle for an inferior kettle – here are the models that rated lowest in our lab tests. -
Toasters to avoid
These models definitely won't give you the toast with the most. -
Dishwashers to avoid
We dish the dirt on the poorest performers in our latest lab test. -
The baby monitors that rated lowest in our tests
If you want peace of mind, we suggest you give these poor-performing baby monitors a miss. -
Fridges to avoid
These not-so-hot fridges have chillingly low scores. -
Clothes dryers to avoid
These five damp squibs rated lowest in our expert tests and need to dry harder to deserve your cash. -
TVs to avoid
Don't get stuck with a dud telly – our lab tests reveal the ones not to watch. -
Overpriced and underperforming: The pricey products that flunked our tests
From stick vacs to TVs, these premium-priced products delivered bargain-bucket performance. -
The worst products of 2024 (so far)
These duds and disappointments are some of the poorest performers our experts have seen over the past year. -
The portable induction cooktops to avoid buying
They're a cheaper way to trial induction cooking, but these ones scored so poorly they could put you off induction altogether. -
Air fryers to avoid
These not-so-hot air fryers will leave you underwhelmed. -
The cleaning products that might be a waste of your money
Our experts dish the dirt on the cleaning products and appliances you could really live without. -
Coffee machines to avoid
We spill the beans on the worst performers in our tests and the coffee machines likely to leave a bitter taste in your mouth. -
Washing machines to avoid
Need a new machine? Avoid these washed-up top loaders and front loaders that rated lowest in our lab tests. -
Prams to avoid
These Kmart Anko, iCandy, Babyzen, Karion and Pouch prams failed our safety tests. -
Soundbars to avoid
Check 1, 2? These models set the bar lowest in our lab tests. -
Stick vacuums to avoid
If you want clean floors and carpets, steer clear of these suckers, even if you find them for a steal in the sales. -
Electric heaters to avoid
These models rated lowest in our independent lab test. -
Wireless speakers to avoid
These poor-performing Bluetooth and Wi-Fi speakers are anything but music to your ears. -
Breadmakers to avoid
Three machines that just aren’t worth your dough. -
Ceiling fans to avoid
Don't lose your cool this summer with these poor performers. -
Mattresses to avoid
Don't wake up on the wrong side of the bed – give these mattresses a miss and spring for something better. -
Portable air conditioners to avoid
Keep your cool and steer clear of these loud and lousy units. -
Rangehoods to avoid
These ducted and recirculating rangehoods received the lowest scores in our lab tests. -
Barrel and upright vacuums to avoid
Don't be a sucker – steer clear of these poor-performing bagged and bagless vacuums. -
Electric kettles to avoid
Don't settle for an inferior kettle – here are the models that rated lowest in our lab tests. -
Microwaves to avoid
Don't get burnt by these lukewarm performers. -
Ovens to avoid
It's the hero of your kitchen, so you need a wall oven that's up to the task. Steer clear of these not-so-hot models. -
Barbecues to avoid
The best barbecues deliver cracking cooking performance and are easy to use – here are the duds that failed to impress. -
In-ear headphones to avoid
These earbuds performed so poorly they should be called ear-duds. -
Inkjet and laser printers to avoid
Buying a printer for your home office? Avoid these models that scored lowest in our lab tests. -
The headphones to avoid buying
Looking for headphones that deliver both great sound and silence? Listen to our experts and give these a miss. -
Reverse-cycle air conditioners to avoid
The small-size models that rate lowest for heating and cooling efficiency in our air con review. -
Robot vacuum cleaners to avoid
Need some help around the house? Don't count on these poorly performing robot vacs, and check our reviews before you buy. -
Steam mops to avoid
These mops that could turn your steam clean dream into a messy nightmare.
Your rights
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Do you know what you're entitled to?
There are some powerful tools at your disposal to stop you from getting ripped off – if you know how to use them. Find out where you stand with our consumer rights guides and use our strategies and advice to make sure your complaint gets heard. We'll help you navigate:
• using your consumer guarantees
• repairs, refunds and replacements
• unsafe products, recalls, and more.
Industry ripoffs
Decades of investigative journalism has shown us that sometimes whole industries offer little to no value.
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How much is my mattress marked up by?
Manufacturers and retailers make buying a mattress the stuff of nightmares. -
Junk insurance in super: 'I got nothing' says Wayne
Stroke survivor Wayne won't work again, but his total and permanent disability (TPD) cover was worthless. -
The pros and cons of pet insurance
Is it worth buying pet insurance for your cat or dog? Here's what you should consider. -
Should you get a prepaid funeral?
Part 3 of our investigation: How well-meaning advance payments fuel a questionable funeral-plan industry worth billions. -
The truth about holiday resort timeshares
A new CHOICE investigation reveals widespread dissatisfaction with timeshare schemes. -
What we learned at mortgage broking school
The bar is set low for becoming a certified mortgage broker, and the emphasis of the course work is sales and marketing. -
How online ticket scalpers cash in on your confusion
In the world of online ticket scalping, supply and demand is king. -
6 ways to spot a scam shopping site
Think an online store might be fake? Here's how to identify and report a scam website.
Big-name stores
We round up the best and worst picks from some of the major retailers in Australia.
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Kmart Anko: Best buys and what to avoid
We reveal the products that impressed in our tests – and the duds that disappointed. -
Bunnings best buys and products to avoid
We look at popular Bunnings buys to help you with your next hardware purchase. -
Aldi: Best buys and what to avoid
Should you just buy everything at Aldi? Not necessarily. We look at TVs, groceries, cleaning products, nappies and more. -
Ikea: Best buys and what to avoid
From mattresses and microwaves to cooktops and cots, we take a look at some of Ikea's best and worst products. -
Kogan: Appliances to avoid
Beware these Kogan buys that rated poorly in our lab tests. -
Is a Costco membership worth it?
We look at whether you'll get great deals or if it's all just a jumbo-sized novelty. -
Bunnings: Best buys
We look at popular Bunnings buys to help you with your next hardware purchase. -
Big W Contempo: Best buys
We reveal the products that impressed, and those you might want to think twice about before adding to your cart.
On holidays
A look at some of the ways you can keep costs down when planning a holiday.
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Tips for saving money on petrol
Follow these tips for driving differently, shopping around and caring for your car to put the brakes on your fuel spending. -
Credit cards for travelling
Fee-free credit cards for overseas holidays and online purchases. -
The most expensive mistake you're making with your travel insurance
A common oversight could cost you tens of thousands of dollars. Here's how to avoid getting caught out. -
Will duty-free shopping save you money?
We compare the costs. -
Where to find the cheapest flights
Is it cheaper to buy airfares through a comparison site or directly from the airlines? -
Booking secrets to help you get the best accommodation deals
The tips and tricks that'll help you save when using sites like Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia, Agoda and more. -
Is car hire insurance worth it?
Do you need to buy car hire excess insurance over the counter or are there better alternatives to reduce your excess? -
Travel agent vs do it yourself: which is cheaper?
With so many websites offering discount holiday bookings, do you even need a travel agent? -
How to save money at the cinema
Going to the cinema doesn't have to break the bank. -
Frequent flyer points – are they worth it?
We weigh up whether chasing frequent flyer points is worth the time and money.
CHOICE membership
- Instant online access to 5000+ expert test results for products and services
- Free personalised consumer help when you need it
- Support a nonprofit that campaigns for your consumer rights