Whether you’re saving for a holiday, home renovations or want a little extra in the bank for a rainy day, having a savings goal will help you get there.

Work out how much money you need and how long it will take you to save.

 

HAVE A SAVINGS PLAN

The secret to saving is starting early and save often. Create a savings plan so you can manage your money and stick to your goal.

 Know where your money is going
 Have a clear picture of your regular expenses and spending habits. This helps you see where you can cut back and save. For example, cancel an unused gym membership or bring your lunch to work. It may surprise you how little things add up.
 See track your spending for practical ways to get started.
 Start a budget
Once you know how you're spending your money, you can set a realistic budget. Your budget will help you to stay on track, review your progress and reach your money goals sooner.

 

PAY OFF SOME DEBT

If you have some money left over after your regular expenses, use it to make extra repayments towards any credit card debt or loans you have.

Paying off your debts sooner can save you thousands in interest. Pay off the one with the highest interest rate first.

 

SHOP AROUND FOR THE BEST DEAL

Do your research before you sign up for a financial product like a credit card or loan. Make sure the product is right for you and that you're getting the best deal. For example, choosing a credit card with a lower interest rate and fewer fees can save you a lot.

Similarly, when it's time to renew your insurance, compare premiums with other providers online. Your current insurer may offer to beat competitors' offers if you stay.

Comparison websites can be useful, but they are businesses and may make money through promoted links. They may not cover all your options. See what to keep in mind when using comparison websites.

Find the best deal on your electricity and gas on the Australian Government's Energy Made Easy website. 

 

SET UP A SEPARATE SAVINGS ACCOUNT

An online savings account is a great way to manage your money. Unlike a transaction account, you can’t spend money directly from a savings account, so it's harder to dip into your savings. Look for an account with the highest interest rate and no fees, to grow your savings faster.
Automate your savings

Transfer part of your pay into your savings account. You can ask your employer to do this for you or you can set up a direct debit. This way, you're saving without even having to think about it.

Round-up transactions
Some savings accounts let you round-up your daily transactions to the nearest $1 or $5. The change then goes directly into your savings account.

For example, James buys a coffee before work each morning:
 The coffee costs $4.20.
 His account is debited $5.
 80 cents goes straight into his online savings account.
After a year, James will save more than $200.

 

CHANGE A SPENDING HABIT AND SAVE

Change one regular spending habit and save. Small spending changes add up to big savings in the long run.

 Switching from a large to a small latte can save $1.50 a day. This saves more than $500 a year on buying coffee.
 Cut down on alcohol – it will save you money and can have health benefits.
 Make your lunch at home. Saving even $5 a day on buying lunch adds up to $1,200 over a year.
 Cut back on eating out or ordering in. Australians spend 34% of their food budget eating out on average – or $1,600 a year.