Posted in Age care, Caring Hands, Community Care, Community Connect, Community services, Community Support, Volunteering

With the cost of living continuing to rise and ongoing global uncertainty, many people in our community are feeling the pressure.

Budgets are stretching with groceries costing more, the prices of fuel and energy bills are climbing, and the housing crisis means rent and mortgages continue to increase.

This shift, and in particular the uncertainty around when it might ease, has understandably created stress, and highlighted some difficult financial choices.

While the challenges are real, there are practical ways to manage them, find support, and build habits that help protect your financial wellbeing.

Practical ways to save money

Saving money during times of rising costs often means making small but consistent changes to daily habits.

  • Track your spending 
    • Many people underestimate how much they spend on everyday purchases. Using a budgeting app, spreadsheet, or even a notebook can help identify where money is going and where you can reduce unnecessary expenses.  Our financial counselling team can assist you in this process.
  • Review your subscriptions 
    • Streaming platforms, app memberships, and other subscriptions can quietly add up. Reviewing and cancelling services you rarely use can free up extra money each month.
  • Plan meals and shop smart 
    • Food is often one of the biggest household expenses. You can reduce costs by:
      • Planning weekly meals
      • Buying in bulk when practical
      • Choosing store brands
      • Cooking more meals at home, like this one
      • Reducing food waste by using leftovers
      • Visiting Southcare’s Mobile Foodbank every Monday for free seasonal fruit, vegetables and bread, plus discounted everyday items (note eligibility conditions apply)
  • Manage fuel costs 
    • With fuel prices fluctuating, these simple tips will help you save when travelling
      • Reconsider your journey – use public transport instead of driving
      • Ask colleagues or friends to carpool – this will also reduce traffic congestion
      • Download the FuelWatch app to see fuel prices ahead of time to help you locate the best savings in your area
      • Refuel on Tuesdays when the price at the bowser should be the lowest
  • Reduce energy use 
    • Energy bills can often be lowered through small adjustments:
      • Turn off appliances and lights when not in use
      • Use energy-efficient light bulbs
      • Wash clothes in cold water
      • Adjust appliance settings, with optimal temperatures being between 3-5 °C for your fridge and between -15 to -18°C degrees for your freezer
  • Buy second hand 
    • Second-hand stores, community groups, and local marketplaces often offer furniture, clothing, and household goods at a fraction of the retail price. Shopping second-hand can save money while also reducing waste.  The Southcare op shop is open Monday – Thursday 10am – 2.30pm and carries a large range of quality clothes, shoes, jewellery, homewares, linen and more.

Building financial resilience 

Beyond cutting costs, building stronger financial habits can make it easier to manage economic challenges. Consider the following:

  • Start an emergency fund
    • Even saving a small amount regularly can build a safety net. Setting aside a small weekly amount can help cover unexpected expenses like car repairs, medical bills, school supplies or urgent home costs.
  • Pay down high-interest debt
    • High-interest debt can worsen financial stress. Prioritising credit cards or loans with the highest interest rates can reduce the overall financial burden over time.
  • Increase income where possible.
    • Some people choose to supplement their income through freelance work, casual shifts, selling unused items, or learning new skills that lead to better job opportunities.

How Southcare can help 

If the rising cost of living becomes overwhelming, it’s important to know that help is available. Many not-for-profit organisations provide practical support and guidance for individuals and families experiencing financial pressure.

At Southcare you can access the following to help you stay independent, connected, and supported during difficult times.

Some of the support available includes:

For those needing support, Southcare’s community support team and op shop are located at:
54 Bickley Crescent
Manning WA 6152
Phone: (08) 9450 6233

Reaching out early can make a big difference. Many services are free or low-cost and designed to help people get back on their feet with dignity and support.

A final note on your well-being

Financial stress can affect mental and emotional wellbeing. It’s important to remember that struggling with rising costs is not a personal failure — it’s a widespread challenge affecting many people.

Helpful steps include:

  • Talking openly with trusted people about finances (including Southcare!)
  • Seeking advice early rather than waiting until problems escalate
  • Staying connected with community groups and support networks
  • Taking time for activities that help reduce stress
Posted in Age care, Caring Hands, Community Care, Community Connect, Community services, Community Support, Volunteering