How to save money

CWA has published list of tips for survival during financial stress

l EARLVILLE | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

WITH the rising cost of living and a rampant housing crisis across Cairns and the Far North, Country Women’s Association North Queensland division president Meg Trimble has prepared the best tips for survival in financially distressing times.

With over 30 years of experience as a real estate agent and 25 years with the CWA, Ms Trimble knows struggle, so with other CWA members, she created a list of hints for locals to survive the current crisis.

“It’s distressing that young parents are not equipped to deal with difficult times,” she said.

“My generation lived through very high interest rates in the 80s and 90s, I was a real estate agent then. Many houses were being repossessed, and many people lost their jobs.

“I’m worried that saving face seems more important than reality nowadays, and people don’t like to admit they’re in trouble.”

Ms Trimble said the first step to addressing a crisis was reassessing your lifestyle and taking short and long-term measures.

“In the short term, watch your power usage,” she said.

“If you’re not in the room, the lights shouldn’t be on, and don’t keep appliances on standby –you’ll immediately save money doing that.

“Second, people waste too much food, don’t buy so much takeaway, look at buying on special and don’t waste it.

“In the long term, you need to reassess all your contracts. If you use Stan more, why keep Netflix? You should also reas-