No wonder pensioners are doing it tough – new research shows just how expensive Australia has become

Have you noticed that it’s getting harder to pay the bills? You’re not alone – and it’s not because you’re poorly managing your money, either.

Analysis by the South Australian Council of Social Service (SACOSS) has found that the cost of essentials such as household fuels, water access and rates have increased at a much greater rate than the consumer price index (CPI) over the past decade, leaving people on pensions or other allowances significantly short.

The ABC reports that the SACOSS found prices on the following were up more than double CPI:

• Gas, household fuels 111pc
• Water, sewerage 95pc
• Property rates and charges 81pc
• Medical costs 79pc
• Electricity 78pc

There is some good news: clothing, computers, electronics and other household appliances have come down in price comparatively.

For those who are living on a tight budget and aren’t busy buying new TVs and fridges, the discrepancy is hard to take.

“This is another blow for households living on hopelessly inadequate support payments. It means they are going backwards both in their own household budgets and in comparison with the rest of the population,” said SACOSS executive director Ross Womersley.

Tell us, do you find your bills are getting out of hand? Which bills or expenses have you noticed are creeping up?