No-ground evictions — where landlords evict tenants without providing a reason — are a contentious issue in housing law, creating significant uncertainty for tenants. These evictions disrupt lives, destabilise communities, and often lead to homelessness. With rising rental populations across Australia, addressing no-ground evictions has become a priority for policymakers, legal advocates, and tenants’ rights organisations. This discussion explores the impact of these evictions, the legal avenues available to challenge them, and the proposed reforms aimed at creating a fairer rental market. Understanding and Challenging No-Ground Evictions Tenants facing forced evictions often experience immense stress and uncertainty. Forced evictions can occur for various reasons, but no-ground evictions — where landlords do not provide a specific reason for eviction — are particularly problematic. These evictions can disrupt lives, destabilise communities, and lead to homelessness. It is crucial for tenants to know their rights and seek legal assistance to challenge such evictions. Tenants can apply for legal action through several avenues: Preventing a Forced Eviction Stopping a forced eviction involves several key steps, such as the following. Understanding Your Lease Agreement Tenants should thoroughly review their lease agreement to understand their rights and any clauses related to eviction. Responding to Eviction Notices It is crucial to respond promptly to any eviction notice. Tenants should seek legal advice immediately upon receiving such a notice. Gathering Evidence Collecting evidence that supports the tenant’s case is essential. This can include communication with the landlord, maintenance records, and any other relevant documents. Attending Tribunal Hearings Tenants should attend all tribunal hearings and present their case clearly and confidently. Legal representation or advice can be invaluable in these situations. NSW Government Takes Action Against No-Ground Evictions The current NSW government has recognised the need to protect tenants from no-ground evictions. These evictions allow landlords to terminate leases without providing a specific reason, which can lead to unfair and arbitrary displacement of tenants. In response, the NSW government has taken steps to address this issue. On 27 July 2024, state Premier Chris Minns announced that efforts are underway to table sufficient rent control legislation to stop no-ground evictions in September 2024. The legislation in particular will only allow landlords to evict a tenant on bases such as: When it comes to termination notices on fixed-term leases, the proposed measures seek a change. For rental agreements of under six months, the standard 30-day notice would be set at 60 days. If a lease was for over six months, the 60-day termination notice is to be issued at 90 days out. A Portable Rental Bonds Scheme is also being proposed, designed to help tenants transfer their rental bonds when switching properties instead of having to pay out of pocket before moving in. Minns explained that the legislation is meant to align NSW’s rental standards with that of other Australian states and territories such as SA, Queensland, and the ACT. Current NSW residential data, for instance, noted that 33 per cent of the state population were in rental properties up from 17.6 per cent eight years ago. When asked about the government’s action, Tenants’ Union of NSW CEO Leo Patterson Ross said it is a long time coming as frequent moves because of evictions or mutual exits take a physical and mental toll on the tenants and their loved ones. Conclusion Tenants seeking legal action against forced evictions, particularly no-ground evictions, is paramount. By understanding their rights and the legal processes available, tenants can better protect themselves from unfair displacement. The NSW government’s efforts to ban no-ground evictions demonstrate a commitment to tenant protection and housing stability. As these policies continue to evolve, it is crucial for tenants to stay informed and proactive in defending their rights. The proposed legislation, public consultations, and support for tenants are positive steps toward ensuring that no-ground evictions become a thing of the past, providing a more secure and fair rental market in NSW and in the entire country. DISCLAIMER: This article is for informational purposes only. 2 Ezi has no business relationships with any government authority, property agent, or property finance specialist.

The Australian food and grocery industry is a complex and dynamic sector, shaped by the interplay between large retailers, small suppliers, and consumers. As the industry grapples with challenges such as supplier exploitation, price controls, and a lack of transparency, recent legislative developments aim to address these issues head-on. The introduction of the Treasury Laws Amendment 2024 signals a pivotal moment for the sector, promising reforms designed to create a fairer, more competitive environment. This article explores the key challenges facing the industry, the role of the new mandatory code of conduct, and the potential impact on all stakeholders involved. Challenges in Australia’s Food and Grocery Industry The food and grocery industry, especially for a major production power like Australia, is complex, encompassing large retailers, small suppliers, distributors, and consumers.  While competition drives innovation and efficiency, it can also create power imbalances. Large retailers often dominate the market, leaving suppliers with little bargaining power. Similarly, price controls at the retail level can negatively affect smaller producers, squeezing their margins and threatening their viability. Key challenges include the following. Supplier Exploitation Suppliers often face unreasonable demands, such as unilateral contract changes, delayed payments, and excessive penalties. Price Controls Large retailers may artificially suppress supplier prices while maintaining high consumer prices, maximising their profit margins at both ends. Lack of Transparency Complex pricing structures and opaque contractual terms leave suppliers and consumers in the dark about how prices are set. These practices not only harm smaller players in the industry but also undermine consumer trust in the system. What is the Treasury Laws Amendment 2024? The Treasury Laws Amendment (Fairer for Families and Farmers and Other Measures) Bill 2024 introduces a mandatory food and grocery code of conduct, called the Competition and Consumer (Industry Codes—Food and Grocery) Regulations 2024. Based on the results of an independent review by Dr Craig Emerson, it provides a legal framework to regulate the relationships between suppliers, distributors, and retailers by officially making mandatory the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct the ACCC developed in 2015 as per the Competition and Consumer Act 2010. All supermarkets with over $5 billion annual turnovers are to be covered under the Code, first and foremost. It passed first reading on 4 November 2024 and Parliament is slated to debate on it before adjourning for the summer recess on 5 December 2024. The plan is for the new code to be enacted into force on 1 April 2025 if the Bill passed the chambers. The mandatory Food and Grocery Code of Conduct is being prepared with a raft of strong measures to combat unfair trading practices in the retail and grocery sector. The following are some notable points. Huge Fines The single most pronounced sanction is the spectre of massive fines with respect to the Competition and Consumer Act 2010. Under the new mandatory Code, the maximum penalty awaiting violators is up to $10m, three times the value of the benefit from the violation, or 10 per cent of turnovers in the past 12 months. Increased ACCC Powers The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) will have more enforcement powers under the mandatory Code. It can have the authority to issue a supermarket with infringement notices if there is evidence of a Code violation. The federal government will also allot the ACCC $30m in funding to investigate and prosecute deceptive pricing by supermarkets and wholesalers. Any M&As in the retail and supermarket sector must be reported to the ACCC. One of the Emerson review’s main recommendations was about how to process anonymous complaints of suppliers and whistleblowers without threat of retribution. To address this, the ACCC itself is being directed to establish a special pathway to handle those complaints. Price Controls The code includes provisions to address unfair pricing mechanisms, ensuring that suppliers receive reasonable prices for their goods while protecting consumers from excessive markups. To this end, the Unit Pricing Code will be modified for easier understanding, allowing the general public to make simple and timely price comparisons between specific products. Why Government Oversight is Essential The introduction of the mandatory code of conduct is a response to years of lobbying by industry groups, consumer advocates, and policymakers who recognised the need for systemic reform. Below are why more government oversight is essential. Protecting Vulnerable Stakeholders Small and medium-sized suppliers are often at the mercy of large retailers. Government oversight ensures a level playing field, protecting these suppliers from exploitative practices that could threaten their survival. Promoting Fair Competition Unchecked market dominance by a few players stifles competition, innovation, and consumer choice. A mandatory code of conduct curtails anti-competitive behaviour, encouraging a more vibrant and equitable market. Enhancing Consumer Trust Consumers are more likely to support businesses that operate transparently and ethically. Oversight promotes accountability, helping to rebuild trust in the industry. Ensuring Market Stability Fair pricing mechanisms and transparent practices contribute to a more stable food and grocery market, benefiting producers, retailers, and consumers alike. Challenges in Implementing the Code While the Treasury Laws Amendment 2024 represents a significant step forward, implementing the mandatory code of conduct is not without challenges. Resistance from Large Retailers Major retailers may resist the additional regulatory burden, arguing that it could increase operational costs and disrupt established supply chains. Monitoring and Enforcement The ACCC will need adequate resources and expertise to effectively monitor compliance and enforce the code’s provisions. Balancing Interests Striking a balance between protecting suppliers and avoiding excessive regulation of retailers is critical to maintaining a competitive and efficient market. Avoiding Unintended Consequences Regulation must be carefully crafted to prevent unintended consequences, such as increased prices for consumers or reduced availability of goods. Benefits of the Mandatory Code Despite these challenges, the mandatory food and grocery code of conduct offers numerous benefits. What’s Next for the Food and Grocery Sector? The tabling of the Treasury Laws Amendment 2024 is just the beginning. To ensure its success, the following steps are crucial. Engaging Stakeholders Ongoing consultation with suppliers, retailers, and consumer advocacy

Bathroom renovations can be a smart investment, offering the potential to enhance both the functionality and value of a property. However, achieving a strong return on investment (ROI) requires careful planning, an understanding of the market, and a focus on quality. In this article, we explore the key factors that influence the success of bathroom renovations, from choosing the right materials to prioritising essential upgrades. Whether you’re looking to refresh your space on a budget or make more extensive improvements, understanding these elements can help you make informed decisions and maximise the value of your renovation. Maximising ROI in Bathroom Renovations When a homeowner decides to renovate their bathroom, they do want to spend a reasonable sum to ensure the materials are of excellent quality and the workmanship shines through, but expect a considerable tradeoff in terms of return on investment (ROI). This belief is notable, considering that the Housing Industry Association of Australia estimates the average bathroom renovation cost at $26k.   The Potential for Value Increase Bathroom renovations can indeed increase a property’s value, but the extent of this increase varies. A modern, well-executed bathroom can appeal to potential buyers, making the property more attractive and potentially leading to a higher sale price. According to various real estate experts, a mid-range bathroom remodel can offer ROIs of around 60-70 per cent, while an upscale remodel might yield an ROI of approximately 50-60 per cent.  Factors Influencing Value Increase Several factors influence whether a bathroom renovation will significantly boost a property’s value: Quality of Workmanship High-quality work and attention to detail are crucial. Poor craftsmanship can detract from the property’s appeal, potentially negating any value increase, and that may even reflect on the tradespeople you hire for the project. Market Conditions In a hot real estate market, even minor improvements can lead to significant value increases. Conversely, in a sluggish market, the impact of renovations might be less pronounced. Local Preferences Preferences for bathroom styles and features can vary by location. Understanding local trends and buyer expectations is key to maximising the value of renovations. Existing Property Condition If the current bathroom is outdated or in poor condition, a renovation is more likely to result in a noticeable increase in property value. Smart Strategies for Affordable Bathroom Renovations If you are looking to have your bathroom renovated with some quality items, a loved one may ask if you can afford the entire endeavour. It can be done, through some sound pieces of advice. Plan and Budget Carefully In budgeting the renovation, set a steadfast limit for the entire project. Research the costs of materials, labour, and any additional expenses that may arise. The team at GT Constructions also notes that if your renovation involves stripping the interior, factor in prices such as removals for tiles, asbestos, and other debris.  Allocate a portion of your budget for unexpected costs to avoid overspending. Prioritise Essential Upgrades The renovation must place a premium on important upgrades such as replacing worn-out fixtures, improving lighting, and updating tiles and flooring. High-impact changes can transform the look and feel of the bathroom without breaking the bank. Choose Quality Materials While it’s important to stay within budget, opting for quality materials can ensure durability and a higher-end finish. Look for materials that offer a good balance between cost and longevity, such as ceramic tiles, quartz countertops, and modern, water-efficient fixtures. DIY Where Possible Some parts of the renovation may be possible if you did the work. Tasks like painting, installing shelves, or even tiling can be done DIY-style, reducing labour costs. However, leave complex tasks like plumbing and electrical work to the professionals to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Keep the Layout Altering the bathroom layout can significantly increase costs due to plumbing and electrical work. If possible, keep the existing layout and focus on updating fixtures and finishes to save money while still achieving a fresh look. Professional Help For tasks that require professional expertise, such as plumbing, electrical work, or major installations, hire reputable contractors. Check references, read reviews, and ensure they have the necessary licences and insurance. Key Bathroom Upgrades for Maximum Impact Toilets Modern, water-efficient toilets can enhance the functionality of the bathroom and appeal to environmentally conscious buyers. Dual-flush models are particularly popular as they offer water-saving options. Some toilet manufacturers can even offer models with smart controls. Vanities and Sinks Replacing outdated vanities and sinks with contemporary designs can dramatically improve the bathroom’s aesthetics. Consider floating vanities to create a sense of space and modern undermount sinks for a sleek look. Showers and Bathtubs Updating the shower or bathtub can have a significant impact. Walk-in showers with glass enclosures are highly desirable for their modern look and convenience. If space allows, a freestanding bathtub can add a touch of luxury, but adequate safety measures must be in place. Given Australians’ awareness of water sustainability issues, you may be angling to invest in water-efficient showerheads. Tiles and Flooring Worn or outdated tiles and flooring can detract from the bathroom’s appeal. Choose durable, easy-to-clean materials like ceramic or porcelain tiles. For a modern touch, consider large-format tiles that create a seamless look. Lighting Fixtures Good lighting is essential in a bathroom. Replace old fixtures with energy-efficient LED lights that provide ample illumination. Consider installing a combination of task lighting (around mirrors) and ambient lighting (ceiling fixtures) to create a well-lit, inviting space. Storage Solutions Adequate storage is a key selling point. Incorporate stylish and functional storage solutions, such as built-in shelves, medicine cabinets, and vanity drawers, to keep the bathroom organised and clutter-free. Conclusion While bathroom renovations have the potential to enhance a property’s value in Australia, the return on investment is not guaranteed. The outcome depends on factors like the quality of workmanship, market conditions, and local buyer preferences. By carefully planning the renovation, prioritising essential upgrades, and focusing on key fixture replacements, homeowners can achieve a high-quality remodel that stays within budget and improves their property’s appeal. Ultimately, a well-executed

Retaining leftover foreign currency after returning from a trip might seem trivial, but it actually offers a range of surprising benefits. Many travellers find that holding onto these funds can save them time and money, while also providing convenience and a sense of security. Recent studies highlight how Australians are increasingly opting to keep their foreign cash, even amidst rising cost-of-living pressures. Whether for practical travel needs or as a thoughtful gift, leftover currency has more value than many realise, opening up creative ways to make the most of what’s often overlooked. Why Keep Leftover Foreign Currency After Travel? Retaining leftover currency after travelling abroad offers a range of benefits that can help save money, make travel easier, and even increase financial security. An Accor study from October 2024 found some reasons why holding onto these funds might be a smart decision, with 1,001 respondents. The study found that 14 per cent of Australians who returned home from a overseas vacation carried as much as $300 in foreign currency while 34 per cent still have the equivalent of $49. The estimated amount in loose foreign currency simply stashed at home was tallied at $1.04 billion. The current cost-of-living crisis is not a hindrance to Australians deciding to go out – Accor found that 59 per cent of Australians have booked overseas getaways in the past 12 months and when tallied by age, the 18-34 segment was strong at 71 per cent. Future Travel Plans For those who travel frequently, especially to a particular country, keeping foreign currency can save time and exchange fees on future trips. Having local currency on hand means you can immediately pay for essentials like transport, meals, or tips without needing to find an ATM or currency exchange counter at your destination. The Accor study acknowledged this, with 97 per cent of Australians having a small amount of local currency at hand even if they brought along cashless travel cards or a credit card. Forty-three per cent pay by cash to avoid international transaction fees you usually incur from card swipes or to tip locals. When it comes to preferences for cash purchases, 73 per cent of Australians do it for small expenses, 68 per cent buy food and drink, and 60 per cent spend hard cash on local items such as souvenirs. Investment Potential Foreign currency values fluctuate over time due to changes in exchange rates. While saving a small amount won’t lead to massive gains, holding onto foreign currency in a stable economy may result in a minor profit if exchanged when rates are favourable. Conversely, it can serve as a safeguard in times of currency devaluation for Aussie travellers abroad. When it came to preferred currencies brought back, the Accor study found US dollars as king at 37 per cent, with euros a close second at 33 per cent and Singapore dollars at 21 per cent. Twenty percent are comfortable with either a batch of British pounds or NZ dollars. Gifting and Collecting Leftover currency can make a thoughtful gift for someone preparing to travel to the same country. Additionally, some people enjoy collecting foreign currency as souvenirs or mementos of their travels. It’s also a great way to introduce children to the concept of money and currency differences worldwide. This notion is also reflected in the Accor study – 20 per cent enjoy the challenge of collecting foreign money as a souvenir while 26 per cent keep the currency because they do not have time to visit the nearest foreign exchange outlet to convert it into Australian dollars. Emergency Cash It’s a good idea to keep a modest reserve of popular currencies like US dollars or euros. If you find yourself in a foreign country or dealing with currency exchange issues, these can serve as emergency cash. The Accor survey notes that 56 per cent of Australian travellers go to a foreign exchange outlet and 38 per cent want to exchange at a local bank. Certain currencies are widely accepted in places where Australian dollars might not be readily exchanged. However, they must be secured on your person and practice safety measures to prevent theft – some tourists robbed overseas have lost considerable sums of their home currency and the destination currency, plus other currencies they carried. Managing and Saving Foreign Currency If you’re planning to hold onto foreign currency, the following are a few practical tips to help preserve its value and maximise its use. Store It Properly Keeping foreign notes and coins in a safe, dry place will prevent damage. A dedicated envelope, wallet, or small container helps you keep everything organised and easy to locate when needed for your next trip or an emergency. Use Multi-Currency Accounts Several Australian banks now offer multi-currency accounts that allow you to store different foreign currencies. This option is particularly useful for those who travel frequently, as it allows you to keep and use foreign funds without converting them back to AUD, avoiding exchange fees. Plan Currency Exchange Smartly If you want to convert foreign currency to Australian dollars, watch exchange rates and plan ahead. Many currency exchange providers allow you to set alerts to notify you of favourable rates. Even small differences in exchange rates can add up if you have a significant amount of foreign currency. Convert Before Returning If you only have small amounts of foreign currency, it might be worth converting at the airport before returning to Australia, as many Australian banks and exchange services don’t accept foreign coins. That said, airport exchange rates can be less competitive, so consider this only if you have no other options. Donate Leftover Currency to Support Domestic Violence Victims Accor’s Accor Live Limitless (ALL) loyalty programme recently partnered with the Domestic Violence Collective to establish an innovative charity initiative aimed at donating leftover foreign currencies for a good cause. This initiative provides a convenient, meaningful way for travellers returning from abroad with leftover foreign currency to make a real difference in their

Dynamic pricing has long been a controversial practice in various industries, particularly in entertainment and events. The consumer resentment it has generated has led to the federal government taking steps to curb it, marking a significant move to protect consumers from what is seen as unfair trading practices. What is Dynamic Pricing? Dynamic pricing, also known as surge pricing or demand pricing, is a strategy where the price of a product or service is adjusted based on current market demand. Companies use algorithms that factor in variables like consumer demand, competition, time of purchase, and availability to set real-time prices. While this practice is commonly associated with airlines and rideshare services, it has increasingly made its way into event ticketing, including concerts and sporting events. In the context of concerts in Australia, dynamic pricing can cause ticket prices to fluctuate dramatically. When a popular artist announces a tour, the initial wave of high demand can cause ticket prices to skyrocket within minutes. Fans who log in later may find that the prices have significantly increased from the original face value, making it difficult for average consumers to afford tickets. Effects of Dynamic Pricing on Consumers The practice of dynamic pricing has been criticised for creating an uneven playing field for consumers. The following are some of the primary effects dynamic pricing has left on the public. Price Unpredictability Dynamic pricing creates a sense of unpredictability around ticket prices. Consumers often don’t know what they will end up paying, as prices can change from one moment to the next. This lack of transparency can lead to frustration and dissatisfaction among buyers, who feel they are being unfairly charged based on fluctuating demand. Exclusion of Average Consumers One of the most significant criticisms of dynamic pricing is that it caters to those who can afford to pay higher prices, effectively shutting out average consumers. For concerts in Australia, this means that loyal fans of an artist might miss out on tickets simply because they cannot keep up with the rapidly rising prices. Increased Resale Prices Dynamic pricing contributes to the inflation of ticket prices on resale platforms. Scalpers and ticket resellers often use bots to purchase tickets at lower prices, only to resell them at a significant markup. This drives the overall cost of attending an event even higher, making it difficult for genuine fans to secure tickets at reasonable rates. Perceived Unfairness Consumers often perceive dynamic pricing as a form of exploitation, especially when they see significant price discrepancies for the same product or service. In the case of concerts, fans who purchase tickets early may feel cheated if they later discover that others secured the same tickets for a lower price. Government Crackdown on Dynamic Pricing in Event Ticketing  Responding to growing public dissatisfaction and concerns about fairness, the federal government has announced plans to ban dynamic pricing in certain sectors, particularly for event ticketing. This move aims to create a more transparent and equitable market for consumers and to put an end to practices that are seen as manipulative and unfair. The Trigger The Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s (ABC) investigative show, Four Corners, aired an exposé on dynamic pricing, highlighting its impact on consumers and the lack of regulation surrounding it. Airing on 14 October 2024, the show revealed that events company Live Nation’s Ticketmaster tickets service and a rival outfit, Ticketek, were programming hidden fees within the overall ticket price for an event. The most recent occurrence of this in Australia was Ticketmaster’s sale of tickets for American band Green Day’s Australia tour in March 2025, some of which set back fans up to $500 each. Some Australian musicians claimed in the episode that none of the extra charges billed for tickets to their own shows were furnished to them, which they hoped for additional income. The news came after Live Nation announced plans to expand the practice to other events such as the Australian Grand Prix and the Australian Open. Ticketmaster is already facing similar revulsion in the UK for implementing dynamic pricing for the reunion tour of iconic rock band Oasis. This includes adding more fees to ticket buyers who waited hours in the online queue for their turn. Arts Minister Tony Burke said in the episode that the practice had always been around, but Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones emphasised the new exposé is setting off the government in the necessary direction. The situation also brought forth a class-action suit by Gordon Legal against Live Nation and Ticketmaster.  Action The federal government’s interest to ban dynamic pricing is part of a major shakeup designed to stop unfair trading practices. Aside from dynamic pricing, the government also identified five other trading practices that also affected prices and therefore needed similar action: The Australian Treasury is aiming for consultation on the matter before preparing associated legislation. The federal government’s crackdown on dynamic pricing is particularly significant for the entertainment industry. Concerts in Australia have been some of the most heavily impacted by dynamic pricing, with fans often priced out of attending shows by their favourite acts due to steep ticket costs. The new regulations will aim to make concerts more accessible to the general public, ensuring that everyone has an equal chance to enjoy live events without being penalised by fluctuating prices. Mixed Reactions to Dynamic Pricing Exposé The above Four Corners episode has received a mixed bag of responses. A Live Nation statement claimed that the ticketing system does comply with Australian Consumer Law and the additional fees actually support associated services such as marketing and consumer protection. Live Nation Australasia president Michael Coppel said the episode singled out Ticketmaster and Ticketek for using the same business model. Interviewed for the Financial Times, Griffith University cultural sociologist Ben Green said it was odd for the government to think about stopping dynamic pricing for concert tickets when airlines and hotels also use the system for customer bookings. Conclusion The federal government’s proposed ban on dynamic pricing marks a pivotal

The Australian barbecue embodies the spirit of summer gatherings, camaraderie, and mouthwatering grilled feasts. However, hosting a memorable barbie doesn’t have to break the bank, even with the current issues related to food security and cost-of-living. Embracing a more modest and budget-friendly approach to grilling can still result in a fantastic culinary experience that brings friends and family together without straining the wallet. Planning a shoestring budget barbecue can be both a fun challenge and a rewarding experience. While extravagant barbecues can be enticing, opting for a more modest approach doesn’t diminish the enjoyment. In fact, it fosters creativity, encourages resourcefulness, and brings the focus back to the heart of the gathering — the joy of shared moments and delicious food. Smart Meat Selection for Budget-Friendly Barbecues Selecting quality yet affordable cuts of meat is a skill that can elevate your barbecue experience without breaking the bank. Knowing how to choose budget-friendly cuts that don’t compromise on taste or tenderness is key. The following are guides on navigating the meat selection process for your grill. In Australia, meat grading systems ensure quality standards. Look for cuts graded with the Meat Standards Australia (MSA) label, indicating superior tenderness and flavour. However, opting for less expensive cuts that might not be as heavily graded can still yield delicious results with the right preparation. Understanding the different cuts of meat and their characteristics is crucial. Lean towards tougher cuts like flank, brisket, or skirt steak that, with the right preparation, can turn into tender delights. Economical Cuts Opt for Whole Cuts and Butchering Purchasing larger portions or whole cuts and butchering them at home can be more cost-effective. This allows for portion control and creative use of different parts. Consider Secondary Cuts Secondary cuts, often underrated, can offer fantastic flavour and texture. Explore options like oyster blade or beef cheeks that, when cooked right, provide exceptional taste at lower prices. Look for Sales and Specials Keep an eye on sales or specials at local butchers or supermarkets. Often, they offer discounts on larger quantities or less popular cuts. Assess Marbling and Fat Content Marbling, the presence of fat within the muscle, is a key indicator of tenderness and flavour. Look for moderate marbling as it adds juiciness to the meat without significantly increasing the cost. The team at Southern Bancorp claims that well-marbled chucks such as flatiron, fillets, or chuck ribs can help you avoid the pricier cuts. Check for Freshness and Storage Ensure the meat is fresh by checking the colour, smell, and packaging. Buy from reputable sources and store the meat properly to maintain its quality. Consider the Purpose Different cuts serve different purposes. For grilling, opt for cuts that cook quickly and evenly, like sirloin, flank steak, or skirt steak, which are both flavorful and budget-friendly. Explore Ethnic Cuts and Butchers Ethnic markets or specialty butchers might offer a wider variety of cuts at more affordable prices. Don’t shy away from exploring these options for unique cuts and savings. Experiment with Slow Cooking and Marinades Budget cuts often benefit from slow cooking or marinating to break down toughness and infuse flavour. Experiment with different marinades and cooking techniques to maximise taste. Prioritise Versatility Choose cuts that can serve multiple purposes. For instance, a larger cut like a pork shoulder can be used for pulled pork sandwiches, tacos, or served as a main dish, offering versatility and value for money. Cost-Effective Barbecue Planning Tips Strategic Menu Planning Opt for budget-friendly meats and cuts. Chicken drumsticks, sausages, and pork chops are economical options that can still delight meat lovers. Explore local markets for deals on fresh produce and bulk purchases. Potluck Approach Encourage guests to contribute by bringing side dishes, salads, or drinks. This not only eases the financial burden but also adds variety to the spread, creating a communal atmosphere. DIY Marinades and Sauces Create homemade marinades and sauces using basic ingredients like olive oil, herbs, citrus, and spices. These add flavour and personality to the dishes without hefty price tags. Economical Grilling Techniques Explore grilling techniques that make the most of cheaper cuts of meat. Slow-cooking, marinating, and using indirect heat can tenderise and enhance the flavours of budget-friendly meats. Charcoal vs. Gas Consider using charcoal grills, which tend to be more cost-effective than gas grills. Charcoal imparts a unique smoky flavour to the food and can be more budget-friendly for occasional grilling. Smart Shopping for Supplies Purchase disposable plates, utensils, and napkins in bulk from budget stores or consider reusable options to reduce recurring costs for future gatherings. DIY Decor and Ambiance Create a festive atmosphere with DIY decorations using inexpensive items like fairy lights, recycled materials, or themed DIY banners. Ambiance matters more than extravagant decor. Timing and Planning Plan the barbecue during off-peak hours or consider hosting a lunchtime event instead of dinner to reduce food costs. Efficient planning can prevent excessive spending. Free or Low-Cost Entertainment Incorporate low-cost entertainment options such as playing backyard games, setting up a DIY photo booth, or creating a themed playlist for a fun-filled day without extra expenses. Leftover Innovation Repurpose leftover ingredients creatively. Leftover grilled meats can be transformed into sandwiches, wraps, or added to salads for next-day meals, minimising food waste. Conclusion A budget-friendly barbecue doesn’t equate to a lacklustre experience. On the contrary, it can cultivate a sense of resourcefulness, creativity, and community. By implementing practical strategies and innovative ideas, hosting a memorable barbecue on a shoestring budget is not only feasible but also immensely rewarding. It’s even better if you manage to land the right cuts with some money left over. A modest approach to grilling not only respects the budget but also celebrates the essence of togetherness and culinary delight that barbecues are known for. DISCLAIMER:  This article is for informational purposes only. 2 Ezi is not affiliated with any grilling resource or meat manufacturer.