With extreme weather on the rise, Australians must invest in home maintenance and insurance to safeguard against potential damage. As wild weather patterns become more frequent and unpredictable, Australian homeowners are being urged to take steps to better protect their homes. From destructive hailstorms to flash floods, extreme weather events pose a serious threat to homes across the country. Yet, a recent NRMA survey has revealed a concerning trend – many Australians are underprepared for such events, and are failing to invest in the necessary home maintenance and insurance coverage. This blog will explore the growing importance of preparing your home for unusual weather patterns in Australia, including the financial benefits of home maintenance insurance and why ignoring this issue can lead to significant and costly damage. The Growing Threat of Extreme Weather Australia is no stranger to unpredictable weather, and in recent years, climate change has exacerbated the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. From devastating hailstorms that can strip a house of its exterior in minutes to torrential rain causing severe water damage, Australian homeowners are increasingly at risk of significant damage to their properties. Severe storms and flash flooding have affected vast regions across Australia, leaving many households with unexpected repair bills. Hailstorms, in particular, have become more frequent, causing considerable damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles. One only needs to remember the 1999 and 2018 hailstorms in Sydney, and the March 2010 hailstorm in Melbourne to see the danger. Some hailstones have been shown to be bigger than cricket balls.   Water damage at home due to poor drainage or blocked gutters often goes unnoticed until the damage is irreversible. It is in these moments that the importance of adequate home insurance and regular maintenance becomes glaringly clear. Australians Underprepared for Wild Weather Despite the obvious risks, a survey conducted by NRMA Insurance revealed that a large portion of Australians are underprepared for the impact of wild weather. In the latest spring 2024 forecast, the NRMA found that 67 per cent of Australians have shown meagre or no interest to shore up their homes for extreme weather events. Fifty-nine per cent admit they have not had a roofing inspection in the past year and 11 per cent never came up the roof at all.  NRMA meteorologist Zac Segger said checking the property for hail damage will be paramount this spring as warmer-than-normal sea surface temperatures can trigger a higher amount of rainfall on the east coast. The same is also expected for all of Tasmania and the southeast SA frontier with Victoria. Meanwhile, much warmer ocean temperatures can result in northern Australia and Tasmania having warmer days and nights this spring.  A look at the NRMA spring 2023 tally of wild-weather claims also bears much reflection. Amongst the +5,700 claims filed that year, a considerable bulk of them reported water damage.   The lack of urgency can be attributed to various factors, including complacency due to years of stable weather or a reluctance to spend on preventative measures. However, as weather patterns become increasingly erratic, this mindset needs to shift. The Importance of Home Maintenance  Investing in regular home maintenance is the first line of defence against the unpredictable nature of Australian weather. Simple tasks like cleaning out gutters, repairing worn roofing, and ensuring proper drainage around the property can go a long way in preventing expensive repairs after a major storm. Ensuring your home is weatherproof not only protects your property but can also reduce the likelihood of your insurance premiums rising after claims for damage. Here are a few key maintenance tips to help safeguard your home against extreme weather: Roof Maintenance Regularly inspect and repair any loose tiles or damaged shingles. Hailstorms can cause severe roof damage, leading to leaks and water damage inside the home. Gutters and Downpipes Blocked gutters can cause water to overflow, potentially damaging walls, foundations, and basements. In addition, roof gutters stand to get loose from the weight of any debris buildup, leaving water to enter the eaves. The NRMA study covered nearly half of Australians stating that their gutters have overflowed during rains and 19 per cent admit they never cleaned out the gutters at all. A simple solution would be to climb up to gutter level on a clear day and take the time to strip out all debris. A general contractor may be needed to inspect and fix the gutter’s attachment to the roof. You can also invest in installing gutter guards, mesh screens that cover the roof gutter from debris buildup and send them over to the ground. Windows and Doors Ensure all windows and doors are well-sealed to prevent water ingress during storms. Invest in storm shutters or reinforced windows if you live in a hail-prone area. Yard Maintenance Trim overhanging trees and branches to prevent them from falling on the house during a storm. Outdoor furniture and other loose items should be anchored to the ground to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles. By staying on top of these simple tasks, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage and the need for costly repairs following a storm. Investing in Home Maintenance Insurance While home maintenance plays a vital role in protecting your home, it’s equally important to ensure that your insurance policy provides adequate coverage for extreme weather events. Not all home insurance policies are created equal, and some may not cover certain types of weather-related damage. For example, a standard policy might not fully cover hail damage repairs or water damage at home caused by inadequate maintenance. When reviewing your home insurance policy, it’s essential to consider the specific weather risks in your area. If you live in a region prone to hailstorms, flooding, or severe storms, look for a policy that provides comprehensive coverage for these events. It’s worth investing in a more robust insurance policy to avoid being left out of pocket when disaster strikes. Investing in both home maintenance and comprehensive insurance coverage is a smart financial decision.

Struggle meals are becoming common as Australians face rising living costs. Learn how to manage a tight food budget without compromising on health. In a time of growing living costs, managing a tight food budget has become a common pain for many Australians. The term “struggle meals” has surfaced, referring to low-cost, often nutritionally lacking food options that individuals or families turn to when finances are stretched.  While these meals may keep hunger at bay, they can come at a significant cost to health. This article explores the dangers of relying on struggle meals, why so many Aussies are turning to them, and provides practical tips to maintain a balanced diet while managing food budgets in Australia. What Are Struggle Meals? “Struggle meals” are inexpensive meals that often rely on highly processed or instant foods. While they can be quick and easy to prepare, they typically lack essential nutrients needed for good health. Food such as instant noodles, frozen pizzas, or budget frozen dinners might satisfy hunger, but they are often high in sodium, unhealthy fats, and lack the vitamins and minerals our bodies need. For Australians facing financial hardships, struggle meals may seem like a necessary compromise. Rising costs of groceries, rent, and utilities have forced many to make tough decisions about where to cut corners, and food is often the first to suffer. Why Are Struggle Meals Common in Australia? The Consumer Sentiment Tracker of comparison site Finder for July/August 2024 revealed a disturbing pivot towards struggle meals to get by, collating responses from 1,049 people. The data revealed that 46 per cent of the respondents – equal to 9.5 million people – had problems with pooling enough grocery money to last the whole week. Twenty per cent said that because of limited budgets, they only made do with fewer groceries while another 14 per cent applied some creativity with their meals.  On the budget aspect for August 2024, Finder evaluators found that the average Aussie household’s grocery expenses topped $190 per week, but that number rose to $251 if the household had at least one child under 18 years old.  It’s the food choices that become a problem – and Finder found that 62 per cent of Australians had common go-to food options when needing a struggle meal. When polled by the types of food people had to buy as a struggle meal, instant noodles and leftovers were the most prominent options tying at 17 per cent, with toast (12 per cent), and breakfast cereal (five per cent) completing the podium. Plain noodles and rice were at four per cent each. This trend reflects a growing number of Australians who are being forced to sacrifice health for affordability, leading to long-term consequences such as malnutrition and diet-related illnesses. Commenting on the survey results, Finder money expert Rebecca Pike said the challenges of families being able to eat well under a tight budget were becoming deceptively close to that of university students with their allowances dangerously low. In some cases, a family might be forced to switch supermarkets that offer more affordable prices for their shopping list. Managing Food Budgets During a Cost-of-Living Crisis Managing food costs while maintaining a healthy diet can be challenging, but not impossible. With some planning and smart choices, it’s possible to stretch a limited budget without compromising on nutrition. Below are some practical tips for managing a food budget effectively: Plan Your Meals Meal planning is one of the most effective ways to stick to a food budget. By planning out meals for the week, you can avoid impulse purchases and ensure you are using ingredients efficiently. Sticking to a grocery list based on your meal plan can help you stay on track. Buy In-Season Produce Fresh fruit and vegetables are light on the budget if they are sold in-season, as it is usually cheaper and fresher. Frozen fruits and vegetables can also be a more affordable option and are just as nutritious as fresh produce. Pike said the meal planning must account for what produce are at hand. Cook in Bulk Cooking larger portions and freezing leftovers is a great way to save both time and money. Bulk cooking allows you to buy ingredients in larger quantities, which is often more cost-effective. Dishes like soups, stews, and casseroles are perfect for bulk cooking and can be reheated for quick meals throughout the week. However, to prevent spoilage, any reheated food must be consumed immediately. Use Budget-Friendly Proteins Protein is a vital element of a meal but the sources can be expensive, especially choice cuts of meat. Consider using cheaper protein sources such as beans, lentils, and eggs. These alternatives are not only affordable but also packed with nutrients. Canned tuna, chickpeas, and tofu are other excellent low-cost options. Reduce Food Waste Australians waste over 7.6 million tonnes of food each year, according to government reports. Reducing food waste can significantly help manage your food budget. Be mindful of portion sizes and use up leftovers creatively to minimise waste. Embrace Finance Apps Finance apps in Australia, like 2 Ezi, allow you to monitor your expenses and set budget limits for different categories, including groceries. These tools provide visibility into your spending habits and help you identify areas where you can cut back without sacrificing the essentials. The Health Impact of Struggle Meals While struggle meals can seem like a temporary solution to financial stress, the long-term impact on health cannot be ignored. Many struggle meals are highly processed and contain excessive amounts of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats.  According to the Australian Dietary Guidelines, a balanced diet should include a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to support optimal health. Frequent consumption of struggle meals can lead to nutritional deficiencies, particularly in vitamins A, C, D, calcium, and iron. These deficiencies increase the risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. The high sodium content in instant meals, for example, has been linked

Couples deep into each other might overlook money issues. In fact, financial issues are one of the leading causes of relationship breakdowns in Australia. A 2023 survey by Aussie financial advisor Jessica Brady revealed that 36 per cent of Australians believe that money is the most common cause of relationship conflict. Despite this, many couples avoid talking about their finances altogether. They may feel uncomfortable discussing money or they may fear that it will lead to arguments or even a breakup. However, avoiding the issue can lead to even more problems down the line. In this blog post, we’ll explore why it’s important for couples to talk about their finances and spending habits, and provide tips for how to have an honest and productive conversation about money. Why Is It Important to Talk about Money in a Relationship? There are many reasons why it’s important for couples to talk about their finances and spending habits. Some of the key benefits include: Tips for Having an Honest Conversation about Money If you’re ready to have an honest conversation about money with your partner, here are some tips to help you get started: Financial Stress Impacting Australian Couples Let’s take a look at some statistics on couples and finance in Australia to understand the scope of the issue: According to a survey conducted by Relationships Australia, finances were a common source of stress in relationships, with 20 per cent of respondents reporting that financial issues affected their relationship. A 2019 report from Westpac Bank even found that at least 36 per cent of Aussies in committed relationships are not financially stable. To add more salt to the wound, 65 per cent of respondent  couples considering breaking up were hesitating to make the decision because of the feeling they will have to start over after letting go. On the bright side though, the bank noted that 85 per cent of couples were identified as financially compatible when they were able to talk better about the state of their finances.  A 2022 study by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and Beyond Blue found that almost five per cent of Australian adults felt financial stress affected their mental health and wellbeing. Some of those respondents admitted they could not sleep at night thinking of the big debts they have to settle. Finder data from the end of FY23 noted that each Australian, on average, has outstanding debts of at least $20,238 – which may be worse if either partner in a committed relationship has some heavy spending habits.   These statistics highlight the need for couples to have open and honest conversations about their finances. When couples avoid talking about money, they may not realise the extent of their financial issues and may struggle to find a solution. Conclusion By talking openly about their finances and creating a budget together, couples can work together to reduce their financial stress and create a more stable and secure future. Seeking the help of a financial planner or relationship counsellor can also be beneficial for couples who need extra support in managing their finances. DISCLAIMER:  This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to replace or supersede official financial advice. All data is based on the most recent materials available as of presstime. 2 Ezi is not associated with any organisation mentioned. Please consult a financial advisor.

Some Australian suburbs have bucked the trend of skyrocketing house prices. A survey shows certain areas stagnating, offering unique opportunities for homebuyers. The Australian property market has long been a topic of national obsession, with house prices in many areas skyrocketing over the years. However, not all suburbs have followed this trend. In fact, a recent survey by PropTrack has revealed that some suburbs across Australia’s major capitals have seen house prices stagnate or even decrease over the past decade. For prospective homebuyers, especially those looking to invest in their first home, these suburbs represent unique opportunities—bargain properties that offer the chance to own a home at prices reminiscent of 2014. In this blog, we’ll explore the implications of these findings, discuss why some suburbs have remained stagnant in terms of property value, and outline the benefits of buying in these areas now. We’ll also touch on strategies for saving for a house deposit over ten years, and why timing your entry into the property market can make all the difference. The PropTrack Survey: Suburbs Defy Australia’s Property Boom PropTrack’s recent survey has uncovered a surprising trend. While most of Australia’s property market has surged in value, a handful of suburbs in major capital cities have seen little to no change in property prices over the last decade. These areas have remained largely immune to the rapid price increases seen in other parts of the country, making them an intriguing option for potential homebuyers. Some of these suburbs, located in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, are seeing house prices that are either on par with or even lower than what they were in 2014. For those who have been saving diligently for a home deposit, these suburbs represent a rare opportunity to buy a property at a price point that seems almost frozen in time. Sydney The city that often comes to mind whenever people speak about Australia does have a high standard of living. What if you discover some suburbs’ property values have remained firm in ten years, despite the 2014 median price for a house shooting up from $712,750 to $1.42m now? The evaluators analysed listings in the city and found stable or declining prices in at least three areas. In Parramatta, there’s much sales activity in the Olympic Park, where a property that averaged $700k ten years ago now sells for close to $685k, and some Rosehill places lost value by $10k over the past decade. If you’re eyeing the northwest, how about Box Hill? Over the past decade, property values there went down by close to $1m because changes to the large land stock enabled more houses to be built on a single tract.      Melbourne Down in Melbourne, the PropTrack team identified Caulfield East, Werribee South, and Essendon North as those with the largest ten-year price declines for apartments, as many of them were 40 per cent cheaper – in hard currency, they are estimated at $220k less. If you are looking to buy a unit in Docklands and South Yarra, observers noted that prices there have not changed much in ten years. The news comes as the Melbourne city government revealed plans to build as many as 140,000 new houses in the inner city areas. Brisbane If you are considering settling in the Greater Brisbane area, a look at the PropTrack data may point to underperforming suburbs that are now generating competition for investors and first-time owners. For example, if you were eyeing an apartment in Dutton Park, Bowen Hills, and Kelvin Grove but missed out ten years ago, look again – the listings have reduced prices by as much as $39,000. Despite a price boom generated by the pandemic, some properties did not see a major increase over ten years but still changed hands. The evaluation team stated that a typical flat in Brisbane City may be offered for sale at $590k – when it was just $520k a decade ago. If that place is for rent, landlords may be setting the median weekly rent at $700.   One local property agent hinted that because of cost-of-living issues, some Brisbane buyers were content with getting an entry-level flat. Some price declines were also reported at 12 Townsville suburbs, and a certain suburb in Ipswich. Why Some Suburbs Have Stayed the Same Understanding why certain suburbs have seen stagnant or declining house prices requires a closer look at the factors that influence property values. The following are several reasons why a suburb might experience little to no growth in property prices over a decade. Economic Factors Suburbs that have struggled with economic downturns, lack of employment opportunities, or a decline in local industries are less likely to see a significant increase in property values. If a suburb’s economy has been stagnant or in decline, the demand for housing may also drop, leading to stable or falling prices. Infrastructure and Amenities The lack of new infrastructure projects or amenities can impact a suburb’s appeal. Areas that haven’t seen improvements in public transport, roads, schools, or shopping facilities may not attract new residents, leading to stable property prices. Population Trends Some suburbs may have seen a decline in population or slower population growth compared to other areas. Without an influx of new residents, demand for housing can remain flat, contributing to stagnant prices. Reputation and Perception Perceptions of a suburb can significantly impact property values. If a suburb has developed a negative reputation over the years—whether due to crime rates, environmental issues, or other factors—its property prices may remain stagnant. The Benefits of Buying in Stagnant Suburbs For those looking to buy their first home or invest in property, suburbs with stagnant house prices offer several potential advantages. Affordability The most obvious benefit is affordability. With prices remaining at or near 2014 levels, these suburbs provide an entry point into the property market that would be unattainable in other, more rapidly appreciating areas. Potential for Future Growth While these suburbs have seen little growth over the past

Home insurance affordability stress is on the rise as living costs soar. Reports show a big hike in rates, causing homeowners to struggle. As the cost of living continues to rise, Australians are feeling the pinch in various aspects of their lives, and home insurance is no exception. Recent reports, including one from the Actuaries Institute in 2024, have highlighted a significant increase in insurance rates, leaving many homeowners grappling with what is now termed “home insurance affordability stress.” In this blog, let’s look deeper into its definition, reasons behind the rising costs, and offer some practical strategies to help ease the burden of paying higher property insurance rates. What is Home Insurance Affordability Stress? Home insurance affordability stress occurs when the cost of insuring one’s home becomes a significant financial strain on a household. This situation can force homeowners to choose between maintaining adequate insurance coverage and meeting other essential expenses, such as mortgage payments, utilities, and groceries. The Actuaries Institute’s Home Insurance Affordability and Home Loans at Risk Report brought attention to the growing concern of affordability stress in Australia. The report highlights that rising insurance premiums are outpacing wage growth, making it increasingly difficult for many households to afford comprehensive coverage. It categorised home insurance affordability stress in terms of pressure on how many week’s gross household income is needed to pay off home buildings and contents premiums, ranging from No Pressure to Extreme Pressure, as determined by the Australian Actuaries Home Insurance Affordability Index (AAHIA). For instance, the percentage of households across the country that reported Extreme pressure was 15 per cent up from 12 per cent last year, or 1.6 million households, paying an average premium of $4,613. The number of weeks’ of gross income they need for paying varied from four weeks to 9.2 weeks. On the far end, the number of No Pressure households – paying $2,182 average premium – was judged at 4.3m down from 5.1m last year – in terms of percentages, that’s down from 49 per cent to 41 per cent. The AAHIA tags No Pressure households normally taking over a week’s gross income to pay the premium. This issue is particularly pronounced in regions prone to natural disasters, where the risk of damage is higher and, consequently, so are the insurance premiums. Increased Insurance Rates Several factors contribute to the rising cost of home insurance in Australia. Climate Change and Natural Disasters Australia’s susceptibility to natural disasters such as bushfires, floods, and cyclones has been exacerbated by climate change. These events have become more frequent and severe, leading to higher claims for insurers. As a result, insurers are adjusting premiums to reflect the increased risk. Rebuilding Costs The cost of rebuilding homes after damage has surged due to inflation in the construction industry, driven by higher labour costs, supply chain disruptions, and increased prices for materials. Insurers factor these costs into their premiums to ensure they can cover potential claims. Regulatory Changes Changes in government policies and regulations, such as building codes and safety standards, can also impact insurance costs. Stricter requirements mean higher rebuilding costs, which are passed on to homeowners through increased premiums. Insurance Market Dynamics The insurance industry itself is subject to market dynamics, including competition, profitability, and investment returns. In periods of economic uncertainty or low returns on investments, insurers may increase premiums to maintain profitability. Regions Most Affected by Home Insurance Affordability Stress The Actuaries Institute report identified certain regions in Australia are experiencing higher levels of home insurance affordability stress due to their vulnerability to natural disasters and rising insurance costs. A mapping analysis of local government areas (LGA) had massive splotches of Extreme Pressure on the AAHIA scale, except Victoria. For WA, Extreme LGAs include the entire Pilbara, Gascoyne (except Upper Gascoyne), and Northern Country. The other such areas around the country include NT’s MacDonnell, Victoria-Daly and the Roper Gulf, SA’s northwest region, four shires in southwest QLD (Burroo, Barcoo, Paloo, and Murweh) and the Gulf of Carpentaria coast in QLD’s Far North. However, when crosschecked against annual gross household income, some of those Extreme areas have incomes over $100k, such as the Pilbara, and QLD’s Burroo and Barcoo Shires. Northern Queensland Known for its high cyclone risk, Northern Queensland has some of the highest insurance premiums in the country. Homeowners in this region are particularly affected by affordability stress, as premiums have risen sharply in response to recent severe weather events. When checked through AAHIA, most of the QLD coastline is tagged for High Pressure – the only No Pressure LGA is Isaac Regional. Western Sydney While not traditionally associated with natural disasters, parts of Western Sydney are experiencing affordability stress due to increasing flood risks. Urban development in flood-prone areas has led to higher insurance premiums, placing pressure on households in this region. AAHIA analysis for the entire sector graded their LGAs at No or Low Pressure and their annual gross household incomes at over $100k, meaning they can somehow cope with paying higher premiums. Coastal Areas Coastal regions across Australia are also feeling the strain, as rising sea levels and the increased frequency of storms contribute to higher insurance costs. Homeowners in these areas face the dual challenge of protecting their properties from environmental threats while managing escalating premiums. The balancing act may be true – according to AAHIA, the only coastal areas in Australia that experience No or Low Pressure in affordability stress are southwest WA, SA’s coast and Victoria. Easing Home Insurance Affordability Stress While rising insurance rates can feel overwhelming, there are several strategies homeowners can adopt to ease the burden of paying higher premiums. Shop Around for the Best Deal Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Shopping around and comparing policies from different insurers can help you find the most competitive rate. Many online comparison tools allow you to easily compare coverage options and premiums. Increase Your Excess Opting for a higher excess (the amount you pay out of pocket when making a

Offset accounts are a popular tool for homeowners aiming to pay off their mortgage. Learn how they work and why they’re a smart option in Australia. Purchasing a home in Australia is a significant financial milestone, but the journey doesn’t end there. For most homeowners, paying off their mortgage becomes a top priority. While there are several strategies to achieve this goal, one increasingly popular method is using offset accounts.  In this article, we’ll explore how offset accounts can help you pay off your home loan and why they’re an attractive option for homeowners in Australia. Understanding Offset Accounts An offset account is a financial tool linked to your home loan. The basic idea behind offset accounts is to help borrowers reduce the amount of interest they owe on their home loan. This is done by offsetting the balance of your home loan with the balance of your offset account. Here’s how it works: Offset Accounts vs. Redraw Facilities It’s essential to distinguish between offset accounts and redraw facilities, as they serve similar purposes but have significant differences. Offset Accounts Redraw Facilities The key difference is the separation of funds in offset accounts, which allows borrowers to save on interest while still having access to their savings. How Much to Put in Your Offset Account? Now that you understand how offset accounts work, the question arises: how much money should you put into your offset account to make a real impact on your home loan repayment? The answer depends on your individual financial situation, but here are some general guidelines: The Benefits of Offset Accounts for Paying Off Your Home Loan Using an offset account to pay off your home loan in Australia offers several benefits: Conclusion Offset accounts have become a powerful tool for homeowners in Australia seeking to pay off their home loans more efficiently. By using the balance in your offset account to offset your home loan, you save on interest payments, reduce the loan term, and gain more financial freedom. While the ideal balance for your offset account may vary depending on your specific financial situation, the more you can contribute, the more you’ll benefit from the reduced interest. With the right strategy, you can make significant progress toward fully owning your home. DISCLAIMER:  This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute official financial advice. 2 Ezi is not affiliated with any bank or lender.