Step 1: Budget Like You’re Explaining Cricket to a Tourist

First, accept that budgeting is necessary, even if it’s as fun as watching paint dry on a tin shed. Start by tracking your cash flow. Apps like Pocketbook or MoneyBrilliant can help, but if tech ain’t your thing, a good ol’ spreadsheet works too. Label columns with:

• Essential Spending: Rent, bills, fuel, Woolies trips
• Fun Stuff: Flat whites, Netflix, that third pair of Blundstones you don’t need
• Savings: The money you’ll pretend doesn’t exist until you’re staring at a mortgage form

Pro tip: If your “Fun Stuff” category is bigger than your “Savings,” it’s time to ask yourself: Do I really need that artisanal sourdough, or will Coles’ \\$2 loaf do the job?

Step 2: Embrace the Side Hustle (No, Not Selling Your Body… Unless It’s Plasma)

Let’s face it: your 9-to-5 paycheck might not cut it. But Aussies are resourceful! Consider:

• • Renting Out Your Garage: If it’s not full of mismatched thongs and broken surfboards
• • Dog Walking: Earn cash while getting steps in. Warning: may lead to existential crises
• • Selling Unwanted Gear: That lockdown guitar? List it on Marketplace

Step 3: Government Schemes – Your New Best Mate

The Aussie gov’s thrown us a bone:

• First Home Super Saver Scheme: Game the system like a true blue Aussie
• First Home Loan Deposit Scheme: 5% deposit without LMI – rarer than a Bunnings snag discount

Step 4: Cut Costs Like You’re Prepping for a Cyclone

• • Ditch Uber Eats: Two-minute noodles + frozen peas = “meal prep”
• • BYO Coffee: Save \\$1,500/year (enough for a mailbox deposit)
• • Op Shop Flex: Hawaiian shirts never looked so financially responsible

Step 5: Stay Motivated (Or Just Stay Caffeinated)

Celebrate small wins:

• • Hit \$5k? \\$5 Kmart candle
• • Hit \\$10k? Fancy candle

Remember: Every dollar saved means one less possum housemate.