Australians Embrace Unconventional Cost-Saving Tactics Amid Financial Strain

The cost-of-living crisis has forced millions of Australians to reevaluate their spending habits and seek innovative ways to save money. From exploiting free-trial periods to impersonating delivery drivers, Aussies are going to great lengths to trim their monthly expenses. Personal finance expert Sarah Megginson shares insights into the desperate measures some are taking, shedding light on the ethical boundaries that should not be crossed.

Australians Seek Creative Solutions to Survive the Cost-of-Living Crisis

Subscription 'Hacks' and the Thin Line Between Savings and Fraud

As monthly subscriptions for streaming services continue to burden household budgets, some Australians have resorted to questionable tactics to avoid paying. One individual admitted to canceling their Paramount+ subscription before the trial period ended, only to sign back up and watch a movie before immediately unsubscribing again. This practice, known as "subscription hacking," involves deliberately exploiting free-trial periods and manipulating payment methods to avoid charges.While the temptation to outsmart the system may be strong, personal finance expert Sarah Megginson cautions that such tactics can be considered fraudulent. "Technically, that is fraud," she said. "If you do that knowingly because you're trying to get something for nothing, I definitely wouldn't encourage people do that." However, Megginson acknowledges that the financial strain faced by many Australians has driven them to explore unconventional methods to save money.

Exploiting Supermarket Policies for Free Roast Chickens

In a more legitimate approach, some Aussies have discovered a clever way to score free roast chickens from major supermarkets. Both Coles and Woolworths offer vouchers for a free roast chicken if the item is unavailable in the store. One savvy shopper shared his strategy, which involves calling his local Coles to check the availability of the roast chickens. If they are out of stock, he races to the store to claim a voucher for his next visit.While this tactic may seem like a harmless way to save a few dollars, it's important to note that there are some limitations. Coles has specified that the vouchers can only be claimed in-store and cannot be used at Coles Express or online. Additionally, the vouchers are only valid for a limited time, typically within seven days of being issued.

Cashing In on Rental Inspections and Eviction Notices

Renters in Victoria have found a unique way to profit from the sale of their rental properties. When a landlord decides to sell the home, renters are legally entitled to compensation for each sales inspection that takes place. One listener on the Kick it Forward podcast shared their experience, explaining that they were able to pocket for every inspection, ultimately earning 0 in total.This strategy is not only legal but also benefits the renters who are facing the disruption and inconvenience of having their home inspected by potential buyers. According to Tenants Victoria, rental providers must pay compensation equal to half a day's rent or , whichever is greater, for every sales inspection held when a rental property is being sold.

Impersonating Delivery Drivers and Retail Employees for Discounts

In a more questionable move, some Australians have resorted to impersonating delivery drivers and retail employees to score discounts. One individual shared a tactic of pretending to be an UberEats driver at a crowded fast-food restaurant, claiming they were there to pick up an order. By doing so, they were able to receive free food, which the podcast hosts agreed amounted to theft and could have serious legal consequences.Another listener revealed a scheme of posing as an employee at a shopping center, asking retailers for "employee discounts." This strategy has allowed them to obtain free Boost juices and even off a haircut. While the legality of this approach is murky, it highlights the lengths some Aussies are willing to go to save a few dollars.

Exploiting Student Discounts and Avoiding HECS Debt

The pursuit of student discounts has also led to some creative, albeit questionable, tactics. One listener shared that they had signed up for a biomechanical engineering degree at an Australian university, solely to obtain a student card with no expiry date. After receiving the card, they promptly withdrew from the degree, effectively avoiding any HECS debt while still enjoying the benefits of the student discount.While this strategy may seem like a clever way to save money, it raises ethical concerns and could potentially have legal implications. Megginson warns that such actions, while tempting, should be avoided, as they could lead to serious consequences.

The Normalization of Retail Theft and Shoplifting

The cost-of-living crisis has also led to a concerning trend of increased retail theft and shoplifting among Aussie consumers. Recent research from Monash Business School's Australian Consumer and Retail Studies (ACRS) group found that more than a quarter of respondents considered various forms of retail theft, such as not scanning all items at self-checkout or changing price tags, to be at least a little justifiable.Megginson notes that this shift in attitudes is a concerning development, as shoplifting was once seen as a shameful act. "It used to be something you would never admit to… it would be quite shameful," she said. "Now people are almost wearing it as a badge of honour that they are making ends meet."As the financial strain on households continues to mount, the temptation to engage in unethical or illegal cost-saving measures has become increasingly prevalent. While some Australians have found creative and legitimate ways to save money, personal finance experts caution that crossing ethical boundaries can have serious consequences, both legally and morally. As the cost-of-living crisis persists, it's crucial for Aussies to explore responsible and sustainable solutions to manage their finances without resorting to questionable tactics.