9 ways to teach kids the value of money at Christmas | Money & Life

  9 ways to teach kids the value of money at Christmas What’s the meaning of Christmas in your household? While it can sometimes feel like spending a small fortune on gifts and food is non-negotiable, it’s not the only option. And, if you have kids, the holidays are a great time to teach them about the value of money – while having a heap of fun along the way! Lavishly decorated homes, piles of …

What does a COVID-19 Christmas look like in Australia?

What does a COVID-19 Christmas look like in Australia? Christmas 2020 will look a little different for many people, but there’s still plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday season with friends and family. With COVID-19 case numbers currently low in Australia, many of us are wondering just how close to normal our Christmas will be. Can we take an interstate holiday? Will we be able to visit friends and family? How many people can …

Be a smart gift-giver this holiday season

Be a smart gift-giver this holiday season After a year like no other, many of us are looking forward to a relaxing holiday season shared with family and friends. Check out these easy ways to stretch your Christmas gift budget further, so you can enjoy more family time, without the financial drama. With positive news about a COVID-19 vaccine on the horizon, many consumers are feeling buoyant heading into the Christmas season. In fact, consumer …

Make your cancelled holiday count

Make your cancelled holiday count If your usual Christmas travel plans have been put on hold by COVID-19, don’t despair. Your holiday savings could turn out to be a cash bonanza for your finances. COVID-19 has played havoc with our love of travel, forcing many to shelve their annual summer holiday for another year. But while you still can’t take that overseas trip you’ve been craving, there are plenty of ways to put your funds …

Mortgage relief to be extended for struggling Aussies | Money & Life

Mortgage relief to be extended for struggling Aussies There may be some welcome news for distressed Aussie homeowners, with banks extending their offer of mortgage relief to those in need. Find out more about the offer and pay off your home loan sooner. Mortgage holders who are still struggling financially due to the impact of COVID-19 will be eligible for a further four-month extension to repay their home loans. The Australian Banking Association says lenders will work with …

Help with your finances during the COVID-19 pandemic | Money & Life

  Help with your finances during the COVID-19 pandemic Since the COVID-19 pandemic arrived in Australia in 2020, the Federal Government has made financial support available to individuals, households and businesses. Here’s an update on the latest announcements on these economic stimulus measures. You can check back here for regular updates on what’s happening that could help you with your finances. A huge number of people in Australia have experienced the financial impact of COVID-19. You, …

Old and new money lessons for kids | Money & Life

Old and new money lessons for kids One of the most important things you can teach your kids is how to manage their money as this will help them better face the challenges of adulthood. In our world of ever advancing technology, children often don’t see physical money being exchanged. In fact, some Scandinavian countries are even doing away with physical cash altogether. These days, money can be moved with the swipe of plastic card …

Role-reversal: When parents are relying on you | Money & Life

Role-reversal: When parents are relying on you As your parents get older, your whole family will be facing lots of changes. Supporting them during this time can be challenging, with lots of choices to be made. Get some tips to help you prepare for this role-reversal without it becoming a burden or a cause of family conflict. In the later stages of life, many seniors want to stay independent for as long as possible, but …

Caring for our elders at Christmas

Caring for our elders at Christmas We can all feel the pressure on our household budget during the festive season. But when that pressure gets passed on to older family members as a request for a handout or loan, financial abuse can end up being the outcome. Find out more about elder financial abuse, what to watch out for and what to do about it. What is elder financial abuse? According to the World Health Organisation, …

Your festive finances

Your festive finances Debt isn’t a welcome guest for any family at Christmas time. And yet blowing the budget and paying it all back next year is tempting when we’re trying to make it the best festive season ever. Get tips on how to keep your finances in the best of shape as you get ready for Christmas so you can enjoy a debt and stress-free new year. The festive debt hangover Getting into debt …