The rising cost-of-living is burning holes in many pockets.
And although high prices might feel inescapable, Logan’s business and community leaders have the tips and tricks needed to get the most bang for buck.
Local business coach Stewart Fleming said food banks were a cheap way of purchasing essential goods.
“Services like Lighthouse Care or Tribe of Judah Care Services are doing absolutely incredible work,” Mr Fleming said.
“At Lighthouse Care, you can get a trolley of food for $25.
“There’s also cheap food at Dunamis Church on their market days – I think it’s $5 for as much as you can carry.”
Mr Fleming said people shouldn’t shy away from assistance services because – “the more you buy from them, the more they can help other people”.
He said another way to save money was by reducing phone bills.
“Most phones now allow WiFi calling, so you can actually ditch your plan,” he said.
“If you’re at the shops, you can use the free WiFi.”
Vice President and Tourism Champion for the Logan Chamber of Commerce, and owner and founder of high-tea house Devon Pixies, Arwen McGregor, is a shrewd saver.
“Plan your menu – plan what you eat, and therefore, what you buy,” Ms McGregor said.
“Not everyone does it, but it does keep costs down.
“And if you’re making a pot of spaghetti, double it and put it in the freezer, so then you’ve got meals ready for the days when you don’t want to cook.”
Ms McGregor also said to use credit cards wisely.
“Pay your credit card off every month – if you can’t afford to pay your credit card off every month, you can’t afford to have a credit card.”
CEO of local family services organisation YFS, Christopher John, said the organisation had seen an increase in the number of people in crisis.
He recommended people with financial difficulties “seek help early” and work with experts, like YFS’ financial workers and counsellors, to build their money management skills.
“For example, we advise people to seek out better deals on regular bills like electricity, internet and phones and check if they are eligible for any concessions,” Mr John said.
“It’s estimated that around 16,000 households in Logan and Beaudesert are missing out on energy concessions.
“The Queensland Government is encouraging people to make sure they are getting any energy concessions they are entitled to.”
Founder and president of the Women’s Empowerment and Leadership Association, Rita Anwari, said electricity bill concessions and free kindergarten would be helpful to many locals.
She said petrol was one of the easiest ways she saves on costs.
“There’s actually an app you can get on your phone that tells you where to find the cheapest petrol,” Ms Anwari said.
She said she noticed certain foods were also cheaper at the end of the week.
“By the end of the week, a lot of things will be on sale.”
Business radio host, business coach and local business owner Nicki Christensen said shopping at outlet-style stores could help reduce spending.
“Outlet-style shops like our Southside Flower Market provide a better pricing structure than full retail operations,” he said.
“So look where you’re purchasing from.”
The director of Yarrabilba-based family services charity 5Fold, Melinda Hartley, said people should identify their “needs versus their wants”.
“You need to make your money go further for you,” she said.
“There are a lot of people living in the here and now and not forward thinking.
“I like to draw out a budget and work out how much money I need for all my essential needs.”
