Christmas 2024 messages: MLC Sandra Carr’s 12 Saves of Christmas for Mid West families on tight budget

While we are very lucky in WA with low unemployment and a strong economy, the fact remains many are dealing with a tight household budget and cost-of-living challenges. So, this Christmas I’ve created a budget version of the Twelve Days of Christmas. Presenting Twelve Saves of Christmas: 1. Audit all your direct debits and subscriptions — small amounts add up fast! 2. Save water and save on bills. For water saving tips visit the “Waterwise” tab at — watercorporation.com.au. 3. Enrich your life through giving. Donate to places like Foodbank Geraldton, the Centacare Christmas Appeal, the Salvation Army Christmas Tree at Kmart Geraldton and Mission Australia. 4. Stay cool — Visit Western Power to learn how to save on your power bills this summer westernpower.com.au. 5. Beat the bank! If you have a home loan — check and compare rates, ask your bank for a reduction, or consider switching lenders for a better deal. There are also lots of tips and help to manage your money at moneysmart.gov.au. 6. Find an unexpected cash bonus. Check online to see if you have any unclaimed money unclaimedmonies.treasury.wa.gov.au. 7. Consolidate your superannuation. Having your super in one place helps it work for you. It’s easy, just visit moneysmart.gov.au/how-super-works/consolidating-super-funds. 8. Make space. Clean out your wardrobe, cupboards, or shed and sell or donate anything you no longer need or want. 9. Friends enrich our lives — call a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while and remind them you care. 10. Keep your precious people and belongings safe by doing your bushfire plan at mybushfireplan.wa.gov.au. 11. Give yourself the gift of time — a long bath, a beach walk, an afternoon nap — whatever brings you a bit of calm this silly season. 12. A gift for your household — Check you have received your $350 electricity credit this December/January billing cycle. Wishing everyone a safe, happy and budget savvy festive season!