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.

As businesses continue navigating the shifting landscape of work models in Australia, the debate about returning to the office versus working from home (WFH) remains at the forefront. Many companies face a dilemma: how can they bring employees back to the office full-time, especially when remote work has proven effective for many workers? One possible solution may be to offer a higher pay to encourage a return to full-time site work. This article will explore the need for potential salary increases, discuss the pros and cons of working on-site versus working from home, and examine the arguments made by Robert Half Australia’s recent survey on the topic. Debate on Returning to Full-Time On-Site Work The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated a global shift towards working from home, with Australian businesses and employees quickly adapting to remote work setups. In many industries, this shift became not just a temporary solution but a long-term strategy. Productivity didn’t necessarily drop as expected; in some cases, it even improved. Employees enjoyed the flexibility of not commuting, improved work-life balance, and the ability to work in an environment of their choosing. However, as Australia has transitioned out of pandemic-related restrictions, many companies have started issuing site-recall orders to bring staff back to the office full-time, such as betting company Tabcorp and ecommerce behemoth Amazon (permanently starting January 2025, per CEO Andy Jassy’s memo). Even the NSW government pulled that trigger two months ago.  Despite this, not all employees are keen to give up the benefits of remote work, which has sparked a new debate: what incentives would make a return to full-time on-site work more attractive? Can Higher Salaries Bring Teams Back? One argument for bringing employees back to the office is that certain industries require the structure and collaboration that only on-site work can provide. In sectors like finance, healthcare, and engineering, the physical presence of teams can be essential to ensuring smooth operations, quick decision-making, and hands-on management. However, many workers are now used to the freedom and flexibility that WFH provides, making it difficult for businesses to convince them to return to the office. Offering higher salary levels is one strategy that companies may consider to incentivise a return to full-time site work. After all, if employees are asked to give up the conveniences of WFH, they may need more compensation to make the sacrifice worthwhile. Such an option may lead to businesses acknowledging the costs employees incur with full-time site work, such as commuting expenses, child-care arrangements, and even the loss of personal time. Additionally, a higher salary could signal to employees that the company values their presence and recognises the contribution of being on-site. The Robert Half Survey The Australian arm of recruitment firm Robert Half weighed in on the site-recall discussion and whether offering higher pay works to get the people back on site. The findings revealed that 44 per cent of workers were open to full-time work provided there was a higher salary premium attached. When asked by how much their salary premium should be, 18 per cent of respondents said they were happy being offered up to ten per cent more while 16 per cent would bite offers of between 11 to 20 per cent. Nine per cent of respondents want at least 20 per cent more wages. Meanwhile, 17 per cent of employees said they do not need a salary premium to come back on-site, and 15 per cent are not willing to return even with a salary premium offer. WFH vs. On-Site: Balancing Productivity and Collaboration The WFH versus full on-site productivity debate is complex. On one hand, many studies have shown that employees working from home can maintain or even increase productivity. Without the distractions of the office, lengthy meetings, and daily commutes, workers have more time to focus on their tasks and may feel more autonomous in managing their work. Some managers, meanwhile, believe that on-site work allows for better collaboration, spontaneous problem-solving, and innovation. In creative industries or roles that require hands-on teamwork, being physically present may facilitate quicker decision-making and reinforce team dynamics. Additionally, there are concerns that remote work can lead to isolation and disengagement over time, particularly for employees who thrive in social or team-oriented environments. Balancing Flexibility and In-Person Work For businesses considering how to bring workers back on-site, it may not be as simple as offering higher salaries. Many employees are not just motivated by money; they are also seeking a balance between work and life. In fact, the flexibility that WFH provides has become one of the most valued benefits for Australian employees. Instead of focusing solely on salary increases, companies may want to explore hybrid models that combine both on-site and remote work. This approach offers a compromise: employees would benefit from the flexibility of WFH while also maintaining an in-person presence in the office for key meetings, collaboration sessions, or high-priority tasks. Employers could also introduce other perks, such as subsidised transport or meal allowances, to offset the costs associated with commuting or working on-site. Offering higher salary levels along with additional benefits might make the transition back to the office more attractive to employees who are hesitant about giving up remote work. Workplace flexibility issues may also play a role in whether a person joins or leaves a company. The Robert Half survey found that for applicants who were finally sent a job offer, 39 per cent of them will not accept it if the company was not flexible about their work location and 33 per cent will turn it down over flexibility of hours. Another 21 per cent will pass on the job offer if they do not have hybrid work options. All three factors played heavily in staff resignations – 39 per cent over work location, 34 per cent due to lack of shift time flexibility and 19 per cent over lack of hybrid work options. This may even dovetail into the immediate fallout of Mr Jassy’s recall orders at Amazon – a

Relocating to a new city is a major decision, and for many Australians, moving interstate brings both challenges and opportunities. Among Australia’s cities, Melbourne, Victoria, is particularly appealing for those seeking a fresh start. With its vibrant culture, strong job market, and high quality of life, Melbourne is an attractive destination for those considering a move. Why Move to Melbourne? Melbourne is Australia’s second-largest city and has consistently ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities. The city’s reputation is built on a combination of factors that make it an attractive option for new residents. Cultural and Lifestyle Appeal Melbourne is often referred to as Australia’s cultural capital festooned with theatres, music venues, and art galleries, plus close access to the Great Ocean Road.  Festivals and events, such as the Melbourne International Film Festival and the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, draw visitors and locals alike. For sports enthusiasts, Melbourne is home to major sporting events, including the Australian Open, the Melbourne Cup, and the AFL Grand Final. The city’s café culture is another drawcard, with its laneways and streets lined with cafes offering some of the best coffee in the world. Melbourne’s diverse population has also contributed to its rich culinary scene, with a wide variety of restaurants offering cuisines from around the globe. Strong Job Market Melbourne’s economy is diverse and robust, offering opportunities across various industries. The city is a hub for finance, technology, education, and healthcare, making it an ideal destination for professionals in these fields. The rise of tech companies in Melbourne has also created a burgeoning startup ecosystem, attracting talent from across Australia and beyond. For those considering moving to Melbourne, the city’s job market is a significant advantage. Whether you’re seeking a new career opportunity or looking to advance in your current field, Melbourne provides ample opportunities for professional growth. Excellent Education and Healthcare Melbourne is home to some of Australia’s revered universities, including RMIT, University of Melbourne, and Monash University. The city’s education system is well-regarded, offering high-quality education from primary school through to tertiary levels. For families moving to Melbourne, the availability of excellent schools and educational institutions is a key consideration. The city’s healthcare system is top-notch, with world-class hospitals and medical facilities. The city is a leader in medical research and healthcare innovation, ensuring residents have access to the best possible care. Housing Market Dynamics The housing market in Melbourne has experienced fluctuations in recent years, but it remains one of the most desirable locations for property investment opportunities in Australia. For those moving to Melbourne, the city offers a range of housing options, from inner-city apartments to suburban homes. While property prices in Melbourne can be high, the city’s diverse neighbourhoods provide options for various budgets. CANSTAR reported in May 2024 that suburbs like Frankston, Ascot Vale, and Brunswick East have become increasingly popular among new residents, offering a balance of affordability and proximity to the city centre. The ongoing developments in Melbourne’s outer suburbs also provide opportunities for those seeking more space and a quieter lifestyle. The Muval Relocation Survey A survey by national removals booking provider Muval provides valuable insights into why people are choosing to move to Melbourne, particularly from cities like Sydney and Brisbane. An analysis of Muval’s bookings for the first half of 2024 revealed that 30 per cent of all capital moves during February and April 2024 were directed to Melbourne. The most recent period of such high activity was recorded in September 2023 at 28 per cent. On the other hand, a 25 per cent tally of capital outbound moves for February was recorded as coming from Melbourne. When accounted for net migration, the city posted 13 per cent positive migration in February and two per cent in April. Evaluators hailed the data as a stunning rebound for the city, whose last positive net migration was three per cent in January 2020. The grip of the COVID-19 lockdowns later brought serious negative results at -61 per cent in August 2020 and -64 per cent in September 2021, with Sydney and Brisbane actually benefiting from the exodus of Melburnians. However, cost-of-living issues have gradually made living in Sydney and Brisbane more or less untenable in those six months. Muval’s data for Brisbane recorded an average 22 per cent inbound metro moves and outbound metro bookings reached 23 per cent in April, with net migration reaching record lows that month at -13 per cent. Down south in Sydney, Muval’s H1 2024 inbound metro moves included 19 per cent overall in January and June, but accounting for 30 per cent overall during the period – the net migration teetered between -41 and -52 per cent. Looking back at the data, Muval co-founder/CEO James Morrell said it may be easier to acquire a new house in Melbourne than in other capitals because of a less severe housing shortage. AMP chief economist Shane Oliver postulated in July 2024 that an upcoming round of lower interest rates can put Melbourne at a commanding lead nationwide in terms of affordable property and larger rental yield. Tips for a Smooth Move to Melbourne If you’re considering resettling in Melbourne, the following are some tips to ensure a smooth transition. Research Neighbourhoods Take the time to explore different suburbs in Melbourne to find the one that best suits your lifestyle and budget; access to basic services, schools and your potential workplace must be factored as well. Plan Your Move Engage with professional movers who are familiar with interstate relocations. Companies listed on platforms like Muval can offer competitive quotes and ensure your belongings are safely transported. Budget for Housing Be prepared for the cost of living in Melbourne, especially in terms of housing. If buying, explore different financing options and consider seeking advice from a property expert. Embrace the Lifestyle Melbourne is known for its cultural diversity and vibrant lifestyle. Take advantage of the city’s offerings, from its café culture to its arts and sporting events. Conclusion Moving to

Tax cuts can have a significant impact on the economy and the financial well-being of individuals. For a country like Australia, cutting tax rates can provide numerous benefits, from stimulating economic growth to increasing disposable income for households. The Stage III Cuts The federal government announced earlier this year a new round of tax cuts aimed at providing financial relief to individuals and businesses. Going effective on 1 July 2024, the so-called Stage III measures are designed to support economic recovery in the wake of global economic challenges and to ensure that Australians can enjoy greater financial security.  The measures are defined under the Treasury Laws Amendment (Cost of Living Tax Cuts) Act 2024 and the Treasury Laws Amendment (Cost of Living – Medicare Levy) Act 2024. Both bills were approved on 5 March 2024. Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers expressed optimism of the tax cuts being able to help the general public’s coffers in ways unthinkable under the previous administration. New tax brackets The above Acts laid down a new set of tax brackets to cover all 13.6 million taxpayers in Australia. Under the measures, the current 19 per cent tax rate is trimmed to 16 per cent while the current 32.5 per cent tax rate is shaved down to 30 per cent.  Increased Tax-Free Threshold The tax-free threshold has been raised, allowing low-income earners to retain more of their income and reducing the tax burden on the most vulnerable. People earning up to $18,200 a year are still tax-exempt under the new matrix, the above-mentioned 16 per cent rate applies to taxpayers earning $18,001 to $45k a year and 30 per cent is for taxpayers earning between $45,001 to $135,000. For thresholds above where the 37 per cent tax rate applies, the $120,000 limit is going up to $135,000. When it comes to the threshold above which a 45 per cent rate is applicable, it is now at $190,000 up from $180,000. The changes in tax rates will also affect the senior Australian and pensioner tax offset (SAPTO) thresholds. Single people can stand to have a $2,230 offset but their shade-out threshold is at $34,919 and the cutout at $52,759. The partners in a legal union can each have a $1,602 offset, $30,994 shade-out, and $43,810 cut-out. However, partners in a legal union but are separated by illness can have an offset of as much as $2,040, with the shade-out at $33,732 and the cutout at $50,052.  The projected savings will be reflected for FY25. For example, if a certain professional earns $90k a year, the Stage III cuts will enable them to save as much as $1,929. Medicare Levy The Treasury Laws Amendment (Cost of Living – Medicare Levy) Act 2024 has its own set of perks. The current two per cent levy will not apply to people earning under $26,000 a year, but it will fully apply on incomes above $32,500; incomes coming in between will have partial levies. Make the Most of Tax Cuts Tax cuts offer a valuable opportunity to improve your financial situation. Here are some tips to help you take full advantage of the latest tax relief measures: Review Your Budget With extra disposable income from tax cuts, it’s a good time to review and adjust your budget. Identify areas where you can allocate the additional funds to enhance your financial stability, such as paying off debt or increasing savings. Increase Your Savings Consider putting a portion of your tax savings into a high-interest savings account or an investment account. Building a robust savings fund can provide financial security and help you achieve long-term goals. Invest in Education Use the additional funds to invest in your education or professional development. Taking courses or obtaining certifications can improve your skills and increase your earning potential. Pay Down Debt If you have high-interest debt, such as credit card balances or personal loans, use your tax savings to pay down these liabilities. Reducing debt can improve your financial health and free up more money for future needs. Upgrade Your Home Consider using tax relief to make home improvements or energy-efficient upgrades. These investments can enhance your living environment and potentially increase the value of your property. Boost Retirement Savings Increase contributions to your superannuation fund. Additional contributions can grow over time, providing a more comfortable retirement. Support Local Businesses Spend some of your tax savings at local businesses. This not only supports the economy but also helps sustain the community and create local jobs. Explore Investment Opportunities With extra funds, consider exploring various investment opportunities such as stocks, bonds, or real estate. They can help you earn passive income in due time, but may require monitoring Donate to Charity Use a portion of your tax savings to support charitable organisations. Not only does this help those in need, but donations can also be tax-deductible, providing additional financial benefits. Plan for Major Expenses If you have upcoming major expenses, such as a wedding, a new car, or a family vacation, use your tax savings to plan and budget for these events. This can reduce financial stress and ensure you enjoy these milestones without incurring debt. The Bottom Line Tax cuts can be a blessing, providing significant benefits to both individuals and the broader economy. The Stage III tax cuts in Australia aim to stimulate economic growth, boost disposable income, and encourage investment. By taking proactive steps to make the most of tax relief, Australians can enhance their financial security and contribute to a more robust and resilient economy. Whether it’s increasing savings, investing in education, or supporting local businesses, the opportunities provided by tax cuts can lead to greater financial wellness and a brighter future. DISCLAIMER: This article is for informational purposes only and does not reflect official tax advice. 2 Ezi is not affiliated with the Federal Government and its associated agencies or employees. Please consult your tax agent and financial advisor.

As Queensland continues to lead the charge towards a more sustainable future, the introduction of rebates for electric vehicles (EVs), specifically e-scooters and e-bikes, marks a significant step forward. With a growing focus on reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly transportation, the Queensland Government has recognised the need to incentivise greener commuting options. Queensland Offers E-Scooters and E-Bike Rebates On 23 September 2024, the Queensland Government introduced a rebate scheme for e-scooters and e-bikes as part of the state’s Zero Emission Vehicle Strategy 2022-2032. The E-Mobility Rebate Scheme will have $1m in funding. The Department of Transport and Main Roads has tasked the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) to oversee the Scheme’s implementation. Eligibility The Scheme is open exclusively to Queensland residents at least 18 years old and up to three people per household. To qualify for the rebate, they must have bought their e-scooter or e-bike as a brand-new unit from a Queensland store or online seller in Australia on/after 23 September 2024. The unit must be bought only for personal use; applicants using the unit for business purposes such as sole traders or companies are excluded. At the same time, applicants who may have affiliations with QRIDA must declare it to properly address conflict of interest. For hardware requirements, the Scheme generally mandates eligible units to have a maximum speed of 25 kph under motor power, have a battery management system, and be sold with regulator-approved charger units that are also listed on the Electrical Equipment Safety System database. The Scheme also has more stringent parameters for both categories. E-Scooter Approved e-scooters will include handlebar-controlled two-wheeler or tricycle units with motors that deactivate when the vehicle goes above 25 kph. They must have footboards at the wheels. For dimensions, the unit must have a dry mass of 60 kilos, and measure up to 1,250 millimetres long, 1,350mm high, and 700mm wide. The unit should also be certified roadworthy under Queensland Road Rules Sec 15A.  E-Bikes E-bikes per the Scheme are broken down into electrically-assisted bicycles or electrically power-assisted cycles (EPAC). For electrically-assisted bicycles, an eligible unit should only have one electric motor with up to 200 watts’ power output; if there’s at least one motor, their combined output is not more than 200W. The unit’s maximum speed on motors only must not exceed six kph and no more than 25 kph on combined pedal motor power – the motor should stop if the speed is above 25 kph. Eligible EPACs should have max continuous power not exceeding 250W. Like the electric-assisted bike, the EPAC must cut the motor on no-pedalling speeds over six kph and combined runs over 25 kph. Rebate Amounts The Scheme mandates the rebate available at $200 for each eligible e-scooter and $500 for each eligible e-bike as stated above, which will also include those with cargo capability. However, if the device’s purchase price was under $500 including GST, the applicant will be reimbursed the total cost. Each applicant under the Scheme can only be accorded the rebate once and the QRIDA will have secure identification protocols in place to identify potential fraud. Why Offer Rebates for E-Scooters and E-Bikes? The shift towards greener transportation options is essential in combating climate change. Cars powered by petrol and diesel are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. In promoting the use of e-scooters and e-bikes, Queensland aims to reduce emissions and ease traffic congestion in urban areas. There are several key reasons why offering rebates for these electric vehicles makes sense: Reducing Carbon Footprint E-scooters and e-bikes produce zero emissions, making them ideal for short commutes. They help reduce the overall carbon footprint of daily transportation, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment. With Queensland’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, promoting electric vehicles aligns with the state’s broader environmental goals. Encouraging Sustainable Transportation Offering rebates for e-scooters and e-bikes encourages commuters to consider switching from cars to more sustainable options. By making these vehicles more affordable, the Queensland Government is actively supporting the transition to green, electric-powered transport, which is particularly beneficial for inner-city travel. Improving Public Health Active transport options, like e-bikes, promote physical activity, improving public health outcomes. Commuters who choose e-bikes over cars for short trips are not only reducing their environmental impact but also increasing their physical activity, which can lead to better health and well-being, especially under current state safety rules. It is also a balancing act, however, as the presence of e-scooters and bikes on the streets have also generated injuries treated in Queensland’s emergency services, with 1,273 cases logged in 2023.   Reducing Traffic Congestion E-scooters and e-bikes take up far less road space than cars, making them a practical solution for reducing traffic congestion in busy urban centres. By offering rebates, the Queensland Government hopes to make these compact vehicles more appealing to city dwellers. Supporting the Green Economy The rebate scheme is not just about encouraging individuals to make greener transport choices — it is also about supporting Queensland’s growing green economy. E-scooters and e-bikes are becoming an integral part of Queensland’s sustainable infrastructure, and the rebates are expected to create further demand for eco-friendly products and services. The rise of electric vehicles, including e-scooters and e-bikes, is expected to boost local businesses involved in the sales, maintenance, and infrastructure of these vehicles. This, in turn, contributes to job creation in Queensland’s green economy, aligning with the state’s long-term economic and environmental strategies. Speaking at the Scheme’s unveiling on 21 September 2024, QLD Transport Minister Bart Mellish said Queensland’s warm climate and the public’s interest to ride longer without worrying about fuel costs is a nudge to acquire e-scooters or e-bikes. The Scheme also comes as the state government closed applications for an EV rebate scheme dating back two years offering rebates of up to $6,000 for new purchases, and the Brisbane City Council voiding a scooter rental contract it had with Beam over fraud charges. The Bottom Line The rebates offered by the

Amid rising losses from online scams, Australian banks may soon be required to compensate customers tricked into transferring money to scammers. Australians lost over $2.7 billion to scams last year, with few refunds issued. Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones has proposed new codes of conduct for banks, telcos, and social media platforms, enforcing stricter obligations to prevent and detect scams. Failure to comply could result in penalties and liability for victim reimbursement. This initiative aligns Australia with global efforts to protect consumers and hold institutions accountable. Online Scams in Australia Online scams in Australia have surged in recent years, with scammers employing sophisticated techniques to deceive and exploit unsuspecting victims. These scams range from phishing emails and fraudulent websites to complex schemes involving cryptocurrency and online marketplaces. The ACCC’s Targeting Scams report for 2023 registered losses due to scams at $2.74 billion, with over 601,000 complaints filed to the National AntiScam Centre. While the above amount is a 13.1 per cent drop from 2022, ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe admits there’s still much work to do in terms of pooling together efforts to cut scam losses. The impact of these scams is not only financial but also emotional, as victims often experience significant distress and loss of trust in digital platforms. Federal Coordination Given the scale and complexity of cybercrime, addressing online scams requires coordinated efforts at the federal level. Localised or piecemeal approaches are insufficient to tackle the sophisticated nature of modern cyber threats. The federal government plays a crucial role in setting policies, allocating resources, and fostering collaboration between various stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, private sector companies, and international partners. By adopting a comprehensive and unified strategy, the government can enhance its ability to detect, prevent, and respond to online scams effectively. Finance Minister Urges Banks and Telcos to Step Up Finance Minister Stephen Jones went to the National Press Club of Australia to tackle the current administration’s drive to combat online scams as part of further cybersecurity pushes, under an address entitled “Fighting Scammers, Fighting for Australians.” The minister said the federal government was considering setting up codes of conduct for banks, telcos, and social media platforms, and they must be enacted before the next election. The object is to put them more to task for detecting and stopping scam activities before they do the most damage on consumers, while at the same time, pushing them to provide compensation for consumers who were hit in a scam. Failure to do so will cop them considerable fines from the government. The above Targeting Scams report tagged a 17 per cent increase in scams run over social media. Jones, noted for example, how a certain Facebook page charged attendance fees to last year’s funeral of Labor MP Peta Murphy. A link posted on the page of a funeral home hosting Murphy’s wake redirected to a page that required credit-card payments to “access” the live stream. Jones claimed social media platforms were already earning much money from advertising for scam operations.  The banking industry element of the codes of conduct are aimed at increasing their power to shut down “mule” accounts that carry wired money for scamming operations. Telcos, Jones said, need to be held accountable even more as scammers used their networks to send erroneous text messages containing potentially malicious links. Minister Jones’ outlining of further policy attracted a mixed response. David Braga, assistant Australia country director of the International Justice Mission, said that while the move was in the right direction, Australia can do further by collaborating with other countries to stamp out human trafficking operations that perform much of the scam work. He noted that some of the text messages received by Aussies actually come from scam centres in Southeast Asia, where the employees are actually kidnap victims forced to work. A UN Office on Drugs and Crime report from 2023 estimated that the cyberscam sector in Cambodia alone is worth $18 billion. Consumer Action Law Centre CEO Stephanie Tonkin lauded the government action, but said it must be at par with anti-scamming efforts in the UK, which are slated to go active in October 2024. The UK government digital reforms, for example, will prompt banks to reimburse customers who can prove they were tricked into sending money to a scammer – but also hold scammed customers accountable for gross negligence, like ignoring their bank’s warnings on suspicious transactions. The object is to also incentivise the banks to further improve their scam countermeasures. Conclusion The federal government’s proposal for stringent codes of conduct represents a significant step forward in Australia’s fight against online scams and cybercrime. Through mandating stringent action from stakeholders such as banks and social media platforms, the government is taking decisive action to protect citizens and businesses from digital threats. However, the success of these initiatives depends on the active participation and collaboration of all stakeholders, including the private sector and international partners. DISCLAIMER: This article is for informational purposes only and contains information based on the most accurate data available at the time of writing. 2 Ezi has no business relationships with any major tech company, bank or government office, and will not be a party to development of any industry code of conduct.