Keeping cool and cutting costs this Summer

Summer in Australia can be a fun time with Christmas, holidays, beach swims and backyard cricket. And it can also be extra stressful with hotter, longer days, higher electricity bills and extra costs.

If you’re breaking out in a sweat just reading this, you’re not alone.

A new report from Energy Consumers Australia found that about 70% of people who rent are avoiding cooling their homes to save money.

You are likely already doing all you can to cool your home without relying on air conditioner. Using fans, closing blinds on the sun-facing side of your home, creating a ‘cool zone’ in one or two rooms, and opening windows at night to let the cooler air in.

Have you also looked at whether you’re eligible for energy bill rebates and concessions? To find out what’s available, go to energy.gov.au/rebates . 

And if you’re behind on your electricity bills, there are options available to you.

If you’re experiencing financial struggles, check with your utility provider about their financial hardship policy, and discuss options for a payment plan. Based on your eligibility, The Salvation Army can also provide some financial assistance with bills.     As the cost of living independently is becoming more difficult, many Australian households are multi-generational with adult children moving back home. Sometimes this means household bills are too high for Mum or Dad to cover alone. If you’d like to start an open money conversation with your share house or family, we have a great video and action plan on our website here .

Most of us find talking about money tough – and it costs us! If you’d also like to talk about money with a professional, you can chat confidentially to a Moneycare financial counsellor for free on our website: salvationarmy.org.au/Moneycare . Or you can give us a call on 1800 722 363 to see if you can make an appointment.