Some young Australians today are really doing it tough. They may struggle to pay for things, save, and plan ahead. This guide is here to help. It talks about how to manage money in simple ways. It gives young Aussies easy tips to deal with money problems better. The guide covers things like making a budget, saving money, and smart ways to use money.

Financial Awareness for Young People

Understanding money is really important. It helps with making smart choices. Here are a few tips and resources to help:

1. Get budget savvy: Track your income and spending to see where your money goes. This will help you see areas where you can cut back and save more.
2. Explore affordable housing options: Consider sharing a place with roommates and moving to a cheaper suburb to save on rent.
3. Seek scholarships and grants: Don’t just rely on student loans. Look for scholarships and grants that can help fund your education.

Tackling Debt 

Debt from students, cars, or personal loans can be super stressful. Here’s how to handle it:

1. Create a debt repayment plan: Figure out the minimum repayments for each debt and identify extra money you can put towards paying them off. Focus on high-interest debts first to save on interest.
2. Consider debt consolidation: Combining multiple debts into a single loan with a lower interest rate can simplify repayments and save money. Talk to a financial advisor if this is an option for you.
3. Seek professional help: If you’re struggling to manage your debt, think about getting professional financial advice. They can help you make a special plan to manage your debts. You can also get help with your mental health if things get too stressful. 

Handling Income Ups and Downs

With the rise of the gig economy and contract work, income can be up and down. Here’s how to adapt:

1. Diversify your income streams: Don’t rely on just one job. Consider freelancing, working part-time, or using your hobbies and skills to make extra money.
2. Build an emergency fund: Save money to cover unexpected expenses like car repairs or medical bills. Aim to save at least three to six months of living expenses.
3. Negotiate for better pay: Research salary benchmarks for your industry and experience level to see if you’re getting paid fairly. Gather evidence of your accomplishments to support your negotiation.

Common Financial Challenges

Young Australians often encounter rising costs, debt burden and income instability. Here are some tips and resources to help with this: 

• Rising Costs: The growing cost of living, especially in housing and education, puts pressure on finances.
• Debt Burden: Loans for education, cars, and personal needs can lead to huge debt.
• Income Instability: Changing income due to the gig economy and contract-based work.

The Value of Financial Wellness

Financial wellness means being secure and in control of your finances. It involves:

• Building Security: Creating an emergency fund for unexpected expenses.
• Reaching Goals: Achieving things like buying a first home.
• Peace of Mind: Less stress about money.

In today’s digital world, it can be easier  than ever to improve your financial well-being, thanks to practical tools and resources. Here are some important tools that can help young Australians manage their money better:

• Your Bank’s App: Many Australian banks offer apps with budgeting features, allowing you to track spending, set savings goals, and manage your finances.
• Raiz: This app lets you invest small amounts of money, starting from $5. You can add money to your Raiz account by rounding up your purchases, making regular payments, or depositing a large amount at once.
• Pocketsmith: A web-based service that connects to your bank accounts, allowing you to create budgets, track spending, and view your net worth.
• Frollo: A budgeting app that connects your bank accounts to track spending and create budgets automatically without password sharing.
• ATO App: Useful for individuals and sole traders to manage tax accounts, record tax deductions and mileage, and more.

By following these money tips and using these helpful tools, young Australians can begin their journey toward financial success and long-term well-being.

Just remember that achieving financial wellness takes time and effort. Using these tools regularly and making smart money choices will help you secure your financial future.

Goals for Young Australians

Some typical financial goals include:

• Homeownership: Saving for a first home.
• Emergency Funds: Building a fund for unexpected costs.
• Investing for the Future: Leveraging compound interest through early investments.

Practical Steps for Financial Management

Proactive steps young Australians can take:

• Create a Detailed Budget: Using tools like those mentioned above.
• Automate Savings: Set regular transfers to a savings account.
• Strategise Debt Repayment: Prioritise high-interest debts while managing other loans.
• Explore Diverse Investments: Research different investment options.
• Consult Financial Experts: For personalised financial advice.

Learning how to handle money is super important. It helps you make smart choices, reach your goals, and feel secure. By learning finance basics and using different tools, you can become really good at managing your money as you age.

If you’re stuck with money issues, remember that Credit24 is here to help you. They offer loans up to $10,000, which could help with school costs and emergencies or help manage your money better.

Note: This article is general information and does not consider your situation. Before acting on the information, please seek independent financial advice tailored to your unique circumstances. 

Disclaimer

IPF Digital Australia Pty Ltd, trading as Credit24, ABN 59 130 894 405. Australian Credit Licence 422839. The information in this article is of a general nature and does not take into consideration your objectives, financial situation or needs. Lending criteria, fees and charges apply. For more information about our products, eligibility criteria and terms and conditions, please visit www.credit24.com.au.

Sources:

1. Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS)
2. Commonwealth Bank (CBA)
3. The Australian Government: Money Help website