As the Christmas period comes to its conclusion, many Australians may be looking for ways to save money and stretch their budget in the new year. One way to do this is by re-evaluating household expenses and finding opportunities to save on necessary monthly expenses like home internet and mobile plans. Here are a few tips for making household savings post-Christmas in Australia!

1. Shop around for better home internet and mobile plans

With so many providers and plans available, it’s worth comparing options to see if you can get a better deal. Consider switching to a provider with a lower monthly fee or a plan with more data for the same price. At MATE, we offer great value internet and mobile plans with no lock-in contracts and an all-Aussie customer service team – no overseas call centres! Better still, bundle your internet and mobile plan on the same bill, and you’ll save up to $120 per year!

2. Negotiate a lower rate with your current provider

If you’re happy with your current provider but just want to lower your monthly bill, try negotiating a better rate. Many providers are willing to work with customers to keep their business, so it’s worth a shot to see if you can get a discount. If not, why wait? Make the switch to MATE!

3. Cut back on unnecessary expenses

Take a look at your budget and see if there are any expenses you can cut back on. Do you really need that premium Foxtel package, or could you get by with a cheaper streaming service plan? Are you paying for entertainment or music subscriptions you don’t use? Cutting back on unnecessary expenses can free up money in your budget for other things.

4. Use cashback and rewards programs

Many credit cards offer cashback or rewards for purchases made with the card. If you use your card for everyday purchases, you can rack up significant rewards over time. Just be sure to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid paying interest.

5. Consider refinancing your mortgage

With interest rates rising, now may be a good time to consider refinancing your mortgage to a lower rate. This can save you money in the long run by reducing your monthly payments. Be sure to compare offers from multiple lenders and consider any closing costs before making a decision.

6. Use energy-efficient appliances

Replacing old, inefficient appliances with newer, energy-efficient models can save you money on your energy bills over time. Look for appliances with Energy Star labels, which indicate that they meet strict energy-efficiency standards set by the government.

7. Implement energy-saving habits

Even small changes in your daily habits can make a big difference in your energy usage and costs. Turn off lights and electronics when they’re not in use, use low-flow showerheads to reduce water usage, and unplug chargers and other devices when they’re not in use to reduce standby power.

8. Consider downsizing

This one isn’t for everyone, but if you’re living in a larger home or apartment than you need, downsizing to a smaller space can save you money on rent or mortgage payments, utilities, and other expenses. While it may be a significant change, the financial benefits can be worth it in the long run.

By taking the time to shop around, negotiate better rates, and cut back on unnecessary expenses, Australians can save money on household expenses and stretch their budget in the new year. And for those who are living in larger spaces than they need, downsizing can be a financially savvy move that can lead to long-term savings.