Friendly Finance Blogs
Latest news and updates from Friendly Finance
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Beer Money! Top 8 Ways to Make Money Online in Australia
A roundup of 8 legitimate ways Australians can earn extra income through online and side jobs.
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Top Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Personal Loan
Avoid common personal loan mistakes and borrow smarter with these essential tips.
Loans In Australia
How to Spot Hidden Fees in Personal Loans
Uncover hidden personal loan fees and learn how to avoid unexpected borrowing costs.
Loans In Australia
How to Qualify for an Unsecured Personal Loan
When you’re thinking about getting a personal loan, it’s crucial to be cautious and do your homework before making any commitments.
Loans In Australia
Understanding the Total Cost of a Loan
Understanding the true financial implications of a loan involves more than just the borrowed amount.
Loans In Australia
Loan Type – SACC vs MACC
There are many loan types for consumers such as secured, unsecured, lines of credit, home loans, etc.
Personal Finance
Credit Building for Beginners
Credit building is a crucial financial practice that involves establishing a positive credit history as well as a high credit score.
Loans In Australia
In-Person vs Online Loans
While both in-person and online loans serve the same purpose, they differ in how they are obtained and processed.
Loans In Australia
What is an Instalment Loan?
Instalment loans in Australia are a type of loan where the borrower receives a lump sum of money and repays the loan over a fixed period of time in regular instalments.
Loans In Australia
Is Debt Consolidation a Good Idea?
When the number of your active debts becomes too much to handle, one option you can consider is debt consolidation.
Loans In Australia
How to Get a Quick Cash Loan Online
Many factors can contribute to a loan application being denied, but there are measures you can do to ensure an approved application the next time you apply for a loan.
Loans In Australia
Is Getting a Holiday Loan a Good Idea?
Holiday loans have become a popular and useful financial tool for Australians seeking to fund their holidays.
Loans In Australia
Tips to Ensure You Get Approved on Your Large Loan
Applying for a big loan can be more difficult than quick, short-term loans. Here are a few tips to get your application approved.
Personal Finance
Credit Accounts – How Many Should You Have?
Credit accounts build the framework for any credit score. How many should you have?
Money & Parenting
Creative Ways to Instill Financial Literacy in Children
When we teach financial literacy to children, we empower them to plan for their future, understand the value of money, and make responsible financial choices.
Loans In Australia
Credit Card Debt Consolidation
As cost-of-living pressures are still expected to get worse, it is highly likely that credit card debt will continue to increase.
Personal Finance
Credit Card Details Stolen? Here’s What You Can Do
Credit card information can get stolen in various ways: through theft of a physical card, through data breaches, by card skimmers—the list goes on.
Personal Finance
Credit Reports: Frequently Asked Questions
In this article, we have outlined the most common questions Aussies have about their credit reports.
Personal Finance
Cybercrimes: Identity Theft – What to look out for?
Identity theft is a type of cybercrime where a person’s personal information is used without their permission.
Loans In Australia
Debt Management 101: Types of Debt and How to Handle Them
Learn how to manage eight common types of debt with tailored strategies and practical tools.
Personal Finance
Emergency Fund: Your Safety Net in Times of Crisis
Unexpected money problems can creep up when we least expect them. That’s where having an emergency fund becomes vital.
Personal Finance
Financial Hacks for Online Shopping
Are you losing money due to your online shopping habits? Plan your purchases better with these financial hacks and see your finances improve.
Personal Finance
Financial Implications of Freelancing
Understanding the financial implications of freelancing is essential for making informed career decisions.
Financial Planning
Financial Independence: Achieving F.I.R.E
One popular approach to attaining financial independence is through the concept of FIRE.
Loans In Australia
Bridging Loans Explained
Bridging loans are a type of short-term financing commonly used in Australia to bridge the gap between buying a new property and selling your existing one.
Personal Finance
Budgeting Money in 10 Easy Steps
Follow our simple guide on how to budget in 10 easy steps.
Money & Parenting
Building Smart Spending Habits
Teaching our children the difference between wants and needs can help build a strong foundation on financial literacy.
Loans In Australia
Buy Now Pay Later or Personal Loans
Buy Now Pay Later or personal loans? Which option would work best for your financial need?
Loans In Australia
Car Loans Explained
This article explains everything you need to know about car loans in Australia
Loans In Australia
Cash Advance Loans: What Is It & How To Get One?
Cash advance loans are perfect for people who need fast cash to cover unexpected expenses.
Loans In Australia
Centrelink Micro Loans
Centrelink Micro Loans are a type of loan that is specifically designed for people who receive Centrelink benefits.
Personal Finance
10 Credit Score Apps in Australia You Can Use for Free
Top 10 credit score applications in Australia you can use for free.
Personal Finance
10 Reasons Why You May be in Debt
Understanding the reason why you are in debt is the first step to overcome it.
Personal Finance
13 Credit Score Myths Debunked
There are a lot of common myths and misunderstandings regarding the factors that effect your credit score.
Personal Finance
2023 Cost of Living in Different Parts of Australia
We have collated the most recent estimates of usual expenses needed to live in different Australian states.
Personal Finance
5 Factors that May Affect your Credit Rating
There are several factors that may affect your credit rating. In this article, we have listed out 5 of the most common factors.
Personal Finance
5 Helpful Tips if You Miss a Credit Card Payment
You might be able to minimise the effects of a missed payment with quick action. Know more here!
Personal Finance
Simple Steps to Easily Finance Your Next Property
It’s crucial to be aware of the different ways you can finance your property purchase.
Personal Finance
9 Best Debt Management Apps
We’ve listed the best management apps that can help you handle your finances in a way that makes it easier to keep up with the payments each month.
Personal Finance
Advice on How to Build a Credit Profile
This article provides some basic guidelines to help you down the path to credit acceptance.
Personal Finance
Bad Financial Habits You Should Avoid
Developing good financial habits is crucial for achieving long-term financial stability and success.
Money & Parenting
Balancing Parenthood and Financial Well-being in Australia
Explore the various strategies and resources available to parents to help them achieve financial well-being while raising families.
Business
2025 Bank Holidays in Australia
In Australia, bank holidays vary by state and territory, in addition to nationwide holidays.
Personal Finance
Be Smart with Your Credit Card Whilst Travelling
Here are a few tips to keep control of your finances and maximise your card benefits to make your trip go smoothly.
Business
Compare Australia Business Loan Rates
The best business loan is usually the one with the lowest interest rate and the best terms.
Loans In Australia
Comparing Credit Cards and Personal Loans
This article provides a steer on the key differences between credit cards and online loans.
Personal Finance
Financial Lessons in Pop Culture
These familiar characters we all love and adore can also be a source of financial lessons and not just entertainment.
Personal Finance
Financial Literacy for Teenagers
Financial literacy is crucial for teenagers as they navigate a rapidly changing economic landscape.
Personal Finance
Financial Pitfalls to Avoid During the Holiday Season
Navigating finances during the holiday season requires careful planning and awareness to avoid potential financial pitfalls.
Financial Planning
Financial Planning for Major Life Events
Learn how to financially prepare for major life events and transitions.
Financial Planning
Financial Planning for Newlyweds
Set joint financial goals to build a strong foundation as newlyweds.
Personal Finance
Financial Tips for Getting the Best Deals
The ability to negotiate effectively is a skill that can help you tremendously.
Business
Financial Tips for Small Business Owners
Essential financial tips to help small business owners budget, grow, and manage cash flow.
Personal Finance
Financial Wellness for Millennials
Embracing technology-driven tools and resources is a great way to enhance the journey towards financial wellness.
Personal Finance
Four Ways to be Smarter With Your Money
Smart money choices only work when aligned with your personal financial goals and priorities.
Personal Finance
Green Financing Options
Green financing is becoming a pivotal strategy for driving sustainable economic growth.
Financial Planning
Health Insurance in Australia: A Must-Have or Not?
Health insurance helps Australians access medical care and manage healthcare costs effectively.
Personal Finance
How Can I Improve My Credit Score
There are several measures you can do to recover from a low credit score. Read on here to find out!
Loans In Australia
How Do Personal Loans for Vacation Work?
In this article, we’ll go over how a vacation loan works and what terms are available.
Financial Planning
How to Achieve Financial Freedom
Achieving financial freedom requires mindful spending and avoiding harmful financial habits.
Personal Finance
How to Reduce Your Tax Bill: Tax Efficiency Tips for Australians
Australia's tax system is progressive which makes strategic planning even more vital.
Personal Finance
How To Save Money On Water Bills
Saving money on water bills is good for your wallet and benefits the environment by reducing waste and conserving valuable resources.
Personal Finance
How to Save Money while Living a Sustainable Lifestyle
Explore practical and achievable ways on how you can contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.
Financial Planning
How To Use Online Investing To Create a Reliable Emergency Fund
Build your emergency fund with low-risk online investments that grow your savings securely.
Personal Finance
I Can’t Pay Back My Loans
If you are unable to pay back your loan, there are several options available to you.
Loans In Australia
Identifying Illegal Online Lenders
While there are many reputable online lenders, there are also illegal lenders that engage in fraudulent practices.
Financial Planning
Insurance Types You Should Consider Getting
Shield your finances with these 9 essential insurance policies for Australians.
Loans In Australia
Interest Rates Explained: Everything You Need to Know
Borrowers need to know about interest rates because they directly affect the cost of borrowing money.
Money & Parenting
Introducing Kids to Banking
Introducing kids to banking offers numerous advantages beyond just saving money.
Financial Planning
Investing for Retirement
Investing for retirement secures your future and protects your long-term financial goals.
Personal Finance
Latest Budget-Friendly Cars in Australia as of April 2023
Looking for a new car to buy? Check out our list of budget-friendly vehicles in Australia here.
Loans In Australia
Lender Spotlight: Cash Converters
Always do your research before considering to take out a loan from any lender. Learn more about Cash Converters here.
Loans In Australia
Lender Spotlight: MoneyMe
Always do your research before considering to take out a loan from any lender. Learn more about MoneyMe here.
Loans In Australia
Lender Spotlight: MoneySpot
Always do your research before considering to take out a loan from any lender. Learn more about MoneySpot here.
Loans In Australia
Lender Spotlight: Nimble
Always do your research before considering to take out a loan from any lender. Learn more about Nimble here.
Loans In Australia
Lender Spotlight: Wisr
Always do your research before considering to take out a loan from any lender. Learn more about Wisr here.
Personal Finance
Lifestyle Inflation: Managing Rising Expenses as Your Income Grows
It’s crucial to strike a balance between income growth and responsible spending habits to achieve financial stability.
Loans In Australia
Loan Application Rejections
Many factors can contribute to a loan application being denied, but there are measures you can do to ensure an approved application the next time you apply for a loan.
Loans In Australia
Loan Options for Expatriates and Non-Residents
Australia’s strict financial regulations and unique requirements for non-residents can make securing a loan challenging for expatriates.
Loans In Australia
Loan Options for Self-Employed Individuals
Self-employed individuals often face unique challenges when seeking financial assistance, particularly in securing loans.
Loans In Australia
Loan Refinancing vs. Restructuring
Facing high repayments or changing financial goals? Many Australians explore options to manage their loans more effectively.
Loans In Australia
Can You Get a Loan While on Centrelink? Your Guide to Borrowing Options and Risks
Being on centrelink benefits doesn’t mean you will not be eligible in applying for loans. Know more about it here.
Personal Finance
Maximising Rewards Programs in Australia
Leveraging loyalty programs effectively in Australia requires understanding your spending habits, aligning with programs that best suit your needs, and staying informed.
Personal Finance
Maximising Value and Minimising Expenses
To live a frugal life is all about getting the most out of what you have while cutting back on wasteful expenses.
Financial Planning
Money Management Apps You Can Use
Money management apps offer a convenient and efficient way to track your finances.
Personal Finance
Navigating Finances During Higher Education
Navigating finances during higher education can be a daunting task, especially for college students in Australia.
Personal Finance
Navigating Personal Finance: Strategies for Financial Wellness
Managing personal finances is all about striking the right balance between essential expenses and leisure activities.
Loans In Australia
Online Loans in Australia: A Guide for Beginners
There are several important factors to consider when applying for an online loan for the first time.
Loans In Australia
Payday Loans vs Personal Loans: What’s the Difference?
There are several ways you can borrow money. Two of the most common ones are payday loans and personal loans.
Loans In Australia
Peer to Peer Lending Explained
Peer-to-peer (P2P) lending emerged as a disruptive force against traditional banking systems.
Personal Finance
Preparing Financially for Parenthood
Welcoming a child into the family is a joyous milestone, but it comes with significant financial implications that parents must navigate carefully.
Loans In Australia
Renovation Loans: How to Finance Home Improvements in Australia?
Learn about the funding alternatives for remodelling projects, including loans for renovations.
Financial Planning
Renting or Buying a Home? Which Should You Choose
Deciding whether to rent or buy depends on your financial situation, lifestyle goals, and current market conditions.
Loans In Australia
Should You Take Out a Personal Loan to Invest?
Before taking out an investment loan, ensure that you can afford the costs associated with the loan, including repayment of the loan.
Personal Finance
Side Hustle Ideas for Australians: How to Earn Extra Income
The appeal of side hustles to earn extra income has skyrocketed as more individuals seek to bolster their financial security.
Personal Finance
Simple Everyday Practices That Can Help You Save Money in 2024
Here are some practical tips that can help you stretch your dollars further and build a more secure financial future.
Personal Finance
Strategies for Protecting Your Purchasing Power
Let’s delve into the world of inflation and its far-reaching consequences on your wallet.
Personal Finance
Smart Shopping Habits: Stretching Your Dollar in Australian Retail
Shopping in Australia is about more than just buying; it’s about becoming a savvy consumer.
Personal Finance
Spotted an Error with Your Credit Report? Here’s What to Do
Whilst credit report errors are infrequent, it’s important that you have the right to dispute any inaccurate information.
Money & Parenting
Teaching Financial Literacy in Schools
Financial literacy is an essential life skill that enables people to make wise financial decisions and successfully negotiate the complicated world of money management.
Money & Parenting
Teaching Kids About Money Management
Teaching our children the difference between wants and needs can help build a strong foundation on financial literacy.
Loans In Australia
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Loan Forbearance
Loan forbearance is a temporary pause or reduction in your loan repayments. Know more about it here.
Personal Finance
The Cheapest Way to Get to Work
Are you overspending on your commute by choosing the wrong mode of transport?
Personal Finance
The Coffee Index: Coffee Prices in Australia [Updated 2024]
We have gathered information on the average cost of a cup of coffee in different parts of Australia, including major cities and regional areas.
Personal Finance
The Differences Between Hard and Soft Credit Enquiries
When a prospective lender makes a credit enquiry to a credit bureau, there are two different options of data available for them to pull.
Personal Finance
The Financial Benefits of Minimalism
By reducing unnecessary purchases and decluttering, individuals can significantly cut down on expenses, avoid debt, and focus on what truly matters.
Personal Finance
The Financial Journey of Migrating to Australia
When contemplating a move to Australia, it’s essential to establish a thorough financial plan to oversee the expenses and ensure a seamless transition.
Financial Planning
The Link Between Health and Wealth
Lifestyle choices affect both your health and long-term financial stability.
Loans In Australia
The Pros and Cons of Co-Signing a Loan
Explore the pros and cons of co-signing a loan to understand the considerations for both borrowers and co-signers.
Personal Finance
The Psychology of Spending
Gain valuable insights into your financial health by understanding your money mindset.
Personal Finance
The Rise of Digital Wallets for Modern Finance
Digital wallets are unlocking new opportunities for banks, particularly in emerging markets, helping advance financial inclusivity.
Money & Parenting
The Value of Saving, Spending, and Giving
By teaching the value of saving, spending, and giving, parents can guide their children towards a healthy and responsible relationship with money.
Personal Finance
Traveling Smart: Budget-Friendly Tips for Exploring Australia
Budget-friendly tips and insider secrets that will enable you to experience the wonders of Australia while keeping your wallet happy.
Personal Finance
Understanding Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) in Australia
If HSAs are implemented effectively, they could offer individuals greater control over their healthcare spending, leading to more personalised and proactive health management.
Loans In Australia
Understanding Centrelink Loans
In Australia, Centrelink loans serve as a vital lifeline for those who rely on government benefits to meet their basic needs.
Loans In Australia
Understanding Loan Terms and Conditions
Before embarking on the loan application process, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the loan terms and conditions.
Loans In Australia
Understanding the Mortgage Process in Australia
The path to homeownership often begins with saving for a down payment and navigating the intricacies of the mortgage process.
Personal Finance
Upgrading Your Space Without Overspending
There are many ways to upgrade your space without breaking the bank.
Personal Finance
What Happens if You Missed a Credit Card Payment?
Missing a credit card payment can lead to negative consequences such as a bad credit score.
Personal Finance
What Is a Good Credit Score?
Your credit score is more important than you think and affects more than just your finances.
Loans In Australia
What You Should Know About Getting a Home Renovation Loan
Getting a home renovation loan requires careful planning, research, and financial management.
Personal Finance
Why Having a Good Credit Score is Important?
Having a strong credit score can set you up for many perks offers in the future.
Personal Finance
Why You Should Monitor Your Credit Report?
There are several reasons why monitoring your credit report regularly is a good idea.
Loans In Australia
When to Use a Line of Credit Instead of a Loan
Compare loans and lines of credit to make smarter borrowing choices for your financial goals.
Loans In Australia
The Importance of Comparing APRs When Choosing a Loan
APR reveals the true cost of borrowing—learn how to compare and choose the right loan.
Business
Choosing the Best Car Financing Option for Your Startup
Discover six smart tips for financing a company car for your startup business.
Personal Finance
Creating a Budget That Works for You
Creating a budget that works for you requires consistency, self-awareness, and a disciplined approach.
Personal Finance
How to Cut Your Aircon Cooling Bills This Summer
Save on energy costs this summer with smart aircon tips!
Personal Finance
How to Reduce Your Heating and Cooling Bill This 2025
As energy prices rise across Australia in 2025, many households are feeling the pinch when it comes to heating and cooling costs.
