Anti-Poverty Week is a National event, happening from the 11th to the 17th of October 2020.
During the week surrounding the UN’s International Anti-Poverty Day on 17 October, individuals, communities, organisations and governments are encouraged to act to address poverty, through research, discussion and a multitude of other activities.
https://antipovertyweek.org.au/
During these unprecedented times, it is more important than ever to support those in the Australian community who are struggling the most. The health and economic impact of COVID-19 is hitting marginalised people and communities the hardest. We know that for many people being sick can make your poor and being poor often makes you sick.
Unemployment has doubled as a result of the COVID-19 induced shut-down, affecting many people who may never have needed support as well as those who were already out of work or didn’t have enough work before the bushfires and pandemic hit. In August 2020 there were at least 12 people receiving DSS unemployment payments for every job advertised on the internet.
Poverty in Australia
In Australia, the poverty line is generally defined as 50% of median household income.
This was $457 a week for a single adult, $731 for a sole parent with two children or $960 for a couple with two children in 2017-18.
The ACOSS/UNSW Poverty in Australia 2020 report found:
• In Australia, there are more than 3.24 million people or 13.6% of the population living below the poverty line. That includes 774,000 children or more than 1 in 6.
• Many of those affected are living in deep poverty – on average $282 a week below the poverty line.
https://antipovertyweek.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Poverty-in-Australia-APW-2020.pdf
Child Poverty
Growing up in poverty impacts the hopes and dreams of young people.
How many children are living in poverty in Australia?
774,000 children or 1 in 6 Australian children aged 0-14 years lived in poverty in 2017-18 (the latest available data). At 17.7%, the percentage of children living in poverty is higher than the percentage of any other age group – including those aged 65 years and over.3
https://antipovertyweek.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Child-Poverty-Revised-APW-2020.pdf
Poverty & Housing
Poverty puts pressure on people – it’s constant and strong. If the pressure builds up, people can be pushed into homelessness. We can relieve the pressure on people’s lives by creating affordable housing and helping people get decent jobs. We can also help people withstand this pressure by strengthening our social welfare system and ensuring all payments stay above the poverty line. We can end homelessness and increase housing affordability. Investing in social housing is both the right and smart thing to do.
Poverty & Work
While ‘paid employment can be a route out of a state of disadvantage, it does not guarantee an absence of recurrent disadvantage as some jobs, particularly low-skilled jobs, are low-paid and hours of available work not assured.’
968,000 people or 38% of the 2.6 million people living in poverty (excluding self-employed people) came from households where wages were the main source of income.
https://antipovertyweek.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Poverty-Work-APW-2019.pdf
Poverty in Rural & Regional Australia
More than 4 in 5 people agreed that nobody deserves to live in poverty and that Australia should be a country that looks after those in need. People in rural and regional Australia have even stronger empathy than those in metropolitan locations. Nearly two thirds of people in rural areas said that there are no differences between them and those experiencing poverty, compared with just over a half of people living in metropolitan areas.
https://antipovertyweek.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Poverty-in-Rural-Regional-Aus-APW-2019.pdf
Poverty & Disability
Just under 2 of the 5 Australians living in poverty have a disability (739,200 or 38% of the nearly 2 million adults Australians who are living in poverty).
1 in 6 people with disability were living in poverty, compared with just over 1 in 10 Australians without disability.
https://antipovertyweek.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Poverty-Disability-APW-2019.pdf
Global Poverty
The World Bank states that ‘Poverty is hunger. Poverty is lack of shelter. Poverty is being sick and not being able to see a doctor. Poverty is not having access to school and not knowing how to read. Poverty is not having a job, is fear for the future, living one day at a time. Poverty is losing a child to illness brought about by unclean water. Poverty is powerlessness, lack of representation and freedom.
Lack of income is not the full story – living in poverty can mean limited access to safe water, good schools, health care, stable and clean housing, and electricity. Where 1 in 10 people live in extreme poverty, it is estimated that 1.3 billion people live in multi-dimensional poverty. For example, the number of people living in households without access to electricity is far greater than those living in monetary poverty. Hence, poverty is not solely linked to finances - it also can include sanitation, housing, and proper education.
https://antipovertyweek.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Global-Poverty1-APW-2020.pdf
Important Update
As of January 1st, 2025 the Affordable SA app will no longer be available. If you're looking for assistance or to connect with programs and services near you, please refer to our website: affordablesa.com.au, to access the assistance you need.
Affordable SA will still be available as a FREE service via website, where you can find all the services you need, in the palm of your hand.
50 Ways to Save This Christmas
The holiday season is a time of joy and togetherness, but it can also come with financial stress. From expensive gifts to lavish dinners and decorations, the costs can quickly add up. However, with thoughtful planning, creativity, and a focus on meaningful moments rather than extravagant spending, you can enjoy a magical Christmas without breaking the bank. This guide will show you how to save on gifts, food, decorations, and more, while still making the season special. Whether you’re looking to cut costs on presents, host an affordable dinner, or find ways to decorate your home on a budget, these tips will help you make the most of the holidays without overspending.
Here's some tips to start:
Borrow or Swap Items
Need something special for your Christmas celebration? Borrow from friends or family instead of buying new. Whether it’s a serving dish or decorations, sharing saves money and resources.
Embrace Free Fun
Focus on free or low-cost traditions like watching Christmas movies, driving around to see holiday lights, or hosting a board game night. Sometimes the best moments are the simplest ones.
Remember, saving money this Christmas doesn’t mean sacrificing joy or festive spirit. By planning ahead, getting creative, and prioritising what truly matters, you can celebrate the season without financial stress. Whether it’s through thoughtful gifting, resourceful decorations, or embracing community events, these tips will help you enjoy a budget-friendly holiday that’s rich in meaning.
You can sort Christmas savings tips by category below.
Understanding Electricity Costs and Renewable Energy in 2025
The way Australians generate and use electricity is evolving rapidly, with a significant shift toward renewable energy sources. South Australia, once known for power shortages, became the first major jurisdiction to be powered entirely by solar energy—a remarkable milestone. As renewable energy technology becomes more widespread, you may wonder: 'will electricity become cheaper, and what steps can I take to reduce their bills today?'
The answer is promising: electricity costs are expected to decrease over time, but you can start saving now with smarter energy habits, better provider choices, and a deeper understanding of your rights as a consumer.
Your Rights as an Energy Consumer
As an energy customer in Australia, you’re protected by laws that govern your dealings with energy retailers and distributors. These rights ensure transparency, fair pricing, and access to essential energy services. Familiarising yourself with these regulations helps you make informed decisions when choosing providers and addressing billing concerns.
Choosing the Right Energy Provider
1. Use Energy Made Easy
The Energy Made Easy website is a free government service that allows households and small businesses to compare electricity and gas plans. Simply input your details to view a range of offers that suit your energy usage and location. You can also contact them directly at 1300 585 165 for assistance.
2. Key Factors to Consider
When evaluating energy plans, don’t focus solely on price. Keep these factors in mind:
- Contract Length: Are you locked into a long-term agreement, or can you switch plans easily?
- Fees and Discounts: Look out for hidden fees or discounts that may expire after a set period.
- Special Deals: Some plans offer incentives like sign-up bonuses or rebates, but read the fine print to understand long-term costs.
3. Time-of-Use Tariffs
Did you know the time you use energy can affect how much you pay? Time-of-use tariffs mean energy costs vary depending on peak and off-peak periods. Adjusting your habits, like running appliances during off-peak times, can lead to substantial savings. In South Australia, off peak times for residential is 10am - 3pm.
4. Specific Plan Types
Certain plans may cater to your unique situation:
- Smart Meter Plans: These allow for detailed tracking of your energy use.
- GreenPower Plans: For those committed to renewable energy, these plans offset your consumption with sustainable energy sources.
- Solar Energy Plans: If you have solar panels, look for plans with competitive feed-in tariffs.
- Regional Plans: Some plans are better suited for urban or rural areas, depending on infrastructure.
Reducing Energy Usage to Lower Bills
One of the simplest ways to save money on electricity is to use less of it. Conducting a home energy audit can help identify energy inefficiencies and opportunities to save. You can conduct this audit yourself by borrowing a free Home Energy Audit Toolkit from your local library.
Living Areas
- In Summer: Close windows, doors, curtains, and blinds during the day to keep the heat out. Use fans instead of air conditioners when possible, and if using air conditioning, set it to 26°C.
- In Winter: Seal draughts by closing windows and curtains. Set central heating to 18°C.
- Lighting: Switch to energy-efficient LED lights and turn them off when not in use.
- Standby Power: Switch off appliances at the wall to eliminate standby power usage.
Kitchen
- Ensure adequate space around your fridge for ventilation and check that its seals close firmly.
- Cover pots and pans when cooking to retain heat and reduce energy use.
- Only run the dishwasher when it’s full.
Bathroom and Laundry
- Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible. If using hot water, set it to 60°C.
- Dry clothes on a line instead of using a dryer.
- Install low-flow showerheads to reduce hot water usage and aim for showers no longer than four minutes.
Accessing Financial Help for Energy Bills
If you’re struggling to pay your energy bills, financial assistance may be available. Options include:
- Temporary or ongoing bill relief through government programs.
- Guidance from us at Affordable SA, call us today on 1800 025 539.
Additionally, explore our Utilities Programs listed on Affordable SA, which provide tailored solutions for reducing energy costs and managing bill payments.
The Future of Renewable Energy and Costs
As renewable energy becomes the backbone of Australia’s power grid, the overall cost of electricity is projected to decline. Solar power, wind energy, and advancements in battery storage are paving the way for a greener, more affordable future. Programs such as GreenPower and feed-in tariffs for solar customers offer opportunities to actively participate in this transition while saving money.
However, the key to maximising these savings lies in understanding your energy consumption and making adjustments today. By selecting the right provider, using energy-efficient appliances, and tapping into available support programs, you can enjoy both immediate savings and long-term benefits as Australia transitions to a renewable energy future.