Utilities and living costs

Utilities Help

There are lots of steps you can take to reduce your expenses and make it easier to make manage your bills.

Be energy smart! These sites have some great tips for reducing your energy bills:

Energy Accounts Payment Assistance (EAPA):

  • EAPA vouchers can help you pay for your electricity or gas bills if you're in a short-term financial crisis. You can check your eligibility and apply here: EAPA | Service NSW

Check out these websites to find savings and discounts:

Look for small changes you can make to help you save on regular expenses and manage your bills:

  • Work out how much your regular bills cost each year, then put an amount aside each week or fortnight into a separate account, to pay important expenses like your rent, phone, car registration and insurance.
  • Ask your utility company or service provider if you can pay your bill in regular small payments fortnightly or monthly, to avoid having to pay a large bill in one go. If you get a Centrelink payment from Services Australia, you can use their free Centrepay to do this.
  • Shop around and compare prices for things like car insurance and phone plans. Think about changing your phone to a pre-paid service.

If you get behind on your bills, there are steps you can take to get back on track. You can find information on your options and rights here: Living Expenses - National Debt Helpline

Eating on a Budget

When you’re a busy student, it’s easy to be tempted by the convenience of takeaways and home deliveries, but these can be expensive options. Check your bank statement to add up how much you spend each month on takeaway food, coffees and eating out – you might be surprised!

To save on food costs:

  • Plan your meals for the week ahead.
  • Write a shopping list and stick to it.
  • Resist impulse buys. Don’t shop hungry!
  • Compare prices and look for specials.
  • Buy in bulk if you can afford it. (Can you share bulk items with friends or housemates?)
  • Check out UNSA’s Free Food Friday and Grocery Pantry.

These sites have some great tips on how to eat healthily on a budget: