For older Australians, managing day-to-day expenses can be a constant balancing act. Between rising grocery prices, transport costs, and household bills, it’s easy to feel like your money just doesn’t go as far as it used to.

But small, practical changes in how you shop, travel, and manage utilities can add up to significant savings over time—without compromising your lifestyle or comfort.

To help navigate these challenges, Carrie-Ann McLean, author of Budget Right: Eliminate debt and improve your financial and mental wellbeing, shares practical ways to reduce costs in everyday life, offering tips that are simple, realistic, and easy to implement.

Groceries

Groceries are often one of the largest household expenses. But with a little planning and a few smart swaps, you can cut costs significantly. McLean recommends:

• Plan meals around specials – Use catalogues and apps like Half Price or Frugl.
• Shop home brands – They’re often just as good and can slash grocery bills.
• Cook in batches – Freeze leftovers for ready-made meals that save time and money.

Transportation

Whether it’s commuting, running errands, or enjoying day trips, transport costs can add up quickly. McLean suggests practical ways to save:

• Public transport – Take advantage of Seniors Cards that offer free or discounted off-peak travel.
• Fuel savings – Use apps like FuelMap or 7-Eleven’s Lock In feature to save on petrol.

Utilities

Energy and water bills can be a hidden drain on the budget, but small changes and informed decisions can reduce them:

• Energy comparison sites – Use Energy Made Easy to find the best deal.
• Concessions – Check if you’re eligible for energy rebates, especially state-run schemes.
• Reduce use smartly – Simple changes like washing clothes in cold water or switching off unused appliances can reduce your bills over time.

Even with these strategies, many older Australians still face financial pressures—a reality underscored by recent changes to the Age Pension.

From September 20, 2025, over 2.6 million older Australians are set to receive a welcome boost to their Age Pension payments. Those receiving the full single rate of the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, or Carer Payment will see their payments rise by $29.70 per fortnight, while couples on the full pension will receive an extra $22.40 each.

While the increase offers some relief, many older Australians say it barely scratches the surface when it comes to covering rising everyday costs.

Following the announcement, hundreds took to the Starts at 60 Facebook page to share their thoughts — and the message was clear: while every dollar helps, life on the pension is still a financial balancing act.

However, combining smart budgeting strategies with the recent increase to the Age Pension increase, older Australians can make their money go further—while still enjoying the things that matter most.

IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your financial or legal situation, objectives or needs. That means it’s not financial product or legal advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a financial or legal decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get independent, licensed financial services or legal advice.