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As Australians brace for the holiday season, a significant increase in job and financial scams is raising alarms. New findings from global cybersecurity leader Trend Micro Incorporated reveal that economic pressures are making consumers more susceptible to scams, with 42% of Australians having been targeted by job scams and nearly one in three experiencing financial fraud.

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The comprehensive global survey, which included over 1,000 Australians among more than 7,000 participants across eight markets, highlights a worrying trend. The Australian figures surpass the global average, with 42% of Australians targeted by job scams compared to 38% globally. Of those targeted, 18% have fallen victim. Additionally, 29% of Australians have been ensnared in financial scams or fraud, illustrating how economic stress is driving digital risk.

Half of the Australian respondents reported that their financial security or income has been adversely affected over the past year, slightly higher than the global figure of 48%. Furthermore, 38% of Australians express significant concern about the current economic climate and its potential impact on their financial security in the upcoming year.

Economic pressure turns into digital vulnerability

As Australians grapple with escalating living costs, scammers are exploiting individuals’ desperation for extra income through deceptive job offers and investment schemes. Among those whose income was negatively impacted, 65% cited increased living expenses, while 13% reported job loss or layoffs.

More than half of Australians (56%) have received unsolicited texts or emails offering jobs or additional income opportunities. Alarmingly, 43% of these contacts were from unidentified companies, and 37% were from unrecognised entities. A significant 68% were promised substantial earnings for minimal work hours, while 77% were directed to continue communication via phone, email, or messaging apps like WhatsApp or Telegram — a common tactic to evade detection.

Nearly a quarter (23%) of Australians responded to these messages, with almost half (46%) doing so out of a need for extra income. However, only 35% are currently earning money from these engagements, and a mere 25% are employed through them. Of those who did not earn money, 40% were asked to invest their own funds.

For the 18% of Australians who fell victim to job scams, 28% realised the scam only after their accounts were hacked, and 27% after losing a significant amount of money. "Job scams are among one of the most insidious forms of online fraud because they target people’s livelihoods," said Ashley Millar, Trend Micro’s Director of Consumer Education. "When living costs rise and genuine job opportunities feel scarce, offers that promise a quick buck can look incredibly convincing. Scammers exploit that pressure, turning consumers’ search for financial stability into their biggest vulnerability."

Discount desperation: the new scam goldmine

Australians’ quest for bargains is also leading to riskier online behaviour. Many consumers are clicking hastily, trusting unfamiliar retailers, and ignoring warning signs, creating new opportunities for scammers. Over half (58%) of Australians feel compelled to spend more time hunting for the best deals compared to last year, with 74% attributing this to concerns about rising prices and 13% citing tighter budgets.

A significant 36% of shoppers almost always click to learn more or make purchases when they see attractive online discounts or promotions. Additionally, 23% typically click on links in text messages offering promotions or discounts.

Cutting corners on cyber safety

Despite increasing awareness of online threats, one in five Australians (20%) admit to disabling their antivirus or security software, either temporarily or permanently, to enhance device performance. This risky behaviour leaves them more vulnerable to cyber threats.

"When money’s tight, people are more likely to take risks, and that is exactly what scammers count on," explained Millar. "The holiday shopping season, especially high-pressure moments like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, is prime time for scams. Shoppers are rushed, distracted, and eager to save, which makes them more likely to click impulsively or ignore red flags. For cybercriminals, it’s the perfect storm."

Millar advises, "The best defence isn’t complicated. If a deal looks too good to be true, assume it is. Go directly to trusted websites, avoid clicking links directly from messages or ads, and always keep your security software switched on. A few extra seconds of caution can mean the difference between a genuine bargain and a costly mistake."

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As Australians brace for the holiday season, a significant increase in job and financial scams is raising alarms. New findings from global cybersecurity leader Trend Micro Incorporated reveal that economic pressures are making consumers more susceptible to scams, with 42% of Australians having been targeted by job scams and nearly one in three experiencing financial fraud.

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In an alarming trend that has caught the attention of cybersecurity experts worldwide, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in investment scams has surged dramatically. Between March and October 2025, NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro™ intercepted over 4.5 million malicious domains linked to fraudulent activities, including phishing, fake online shops, and scam calls. This staggering figure underscores the growing sophistication and volume of these attacks, which have resulted in annual losses of $5.7 billion.

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Marijus Briedis, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at NordVPN, highlighted the evolving threat landscape, stating, “Scammers are evolving at an unprecedented pace, using AI not just to automate attacks but to make them deeply convincing.” Briedis emphasised the importance of staying ahead in the cybersecurity race by leveraging advanced technology to detect and neutralise threats before they reach users. “But ultimately, public awareness and education remain the best defenses,” he added.

New tactics: AI meets social engineering

Gone are the days when cybercriminals relied solely on simple spam or basic phishing attempts. Today, they are deploying AI-generated voice calls that impersonate trusted contacts or financial institutions, making scams more convincing than ever. This new breed of phishing campaigns uses AI to craft highly believable emails and text messages, fooling even the most vigilant users.

The proliferation of fake online shops has also been notable, with over 120,000 malicious sites impersonating Amazon alone in just two months. Briedis explained the dual nature of AI in this context: “AI is a double-edged sword: while it powers incredible innovations, it also equips scammers with tools to mimic legitimate communication flawlessly. This fusion of AI and social engineering creates a challenging landscape where technology alone isn’t enough; users must stay alert and question what they see and hear.”

Scale of the problem

The scale of the problem is enormous, with fraudsters increasingly targeting individuals through sophisticated investment scams. These scams often use stolen personal data to enhance their credibility, making them harder to detect. From March to October 2025, millions of scam-related domains were intercepted, highlighting the heightened threat level.

Tomas Sinicki, Managing Director at NordProtect, pointed out the psychological aspect of these threats: “Cybersecurity threats are no longer just about technology — they’re increasingly about the psychology of people and their resilience to social engineering attacks. Investment scams have surged by nearly 25% year by year recently, costing victims an estimated $5.7 billion in 2024 alone.”

Sinicki further explained that these scams often begin with stolen personal data, such as an email, phone number, or even just a name. While technology can help shield identities, once data is compromised, protection depends on vigilance, strong identity monitoring, and safety nets like cyber insurance.

Prevention, protection, and ongoing commitment

To safeguard against the rising tide of investment scams, experts advise scrutinising unsolicited offers, especially those promising unusually high returns via email or social media. Verifying websites by checking domain names and avoiding suspicious templates is also crucial.

Briedis recommended additional protective measures, saying, “Enabling identity monitoring and alerts can help detect data breaches early, while multi-factor authentication adds an essential layer of security. Consumers should also consider cyber insurance and educate themselves about emerging threats like deepfake voices, impersonation, and fake shops.”

As cybercriminals continue to weaponise AI, the responsibility falls on both technology companies and individuals to adapt and respond. While the battle against AI-driven scams is ongoing, public awareness and education remain pivotal in combating these sophisticated threats.

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In an alarming trend that has caught the attention of cybersecurity experts worldwide, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in investment scams has surged dramatically. Between March and October 2025, NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro™ intercepted over 4.5 million malicious domains linked to fraudulent activities, including phishing, fake online shops, and scam calls. This staggering figure underscores the growing sophistication and volume of these attacks, which have resulted in annual losses of $5.7 billion.

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As the global retail landscape gears up for another round of Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, consumers worldwide are being advised to proceed with caution. HSBC, one of the leading financial institutions, has issued a warning to international shoppers about the increased threat of fraud during this peak shopping period. The bank emphasises the necessity of vigilance, especially for those engaging in cross-border transactions.

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Matthew Hannan, Head of Fraud at HSBC, highlighted the dual nature of Black Friday. "Black Friday is a time of great opportunity for both shoppers and fraudsters," Hannan stated. "We urge our customers to shop smart and stay alert to protect themselves from scams."

With the rise in international shopping, particularly online, the risk of encountering scams has become more pronounced. Consumers are often lured by the promise of unbeatable deals, but this can sometimes lead them into the traps set by fraudsters. Hannan's advice is timely and crucial for anyone planning to partake in the global shopping frenzy.

Key strategies for safe cross-border shopping

HSBC has laid out several strategies to help shoppers protect themselves. Firstly, the bank advises using trusted global platforms or major marketplaces that offer buyer protection and verified sellers. This is crucial because many fraudulent sites mimic well-known brands but are registered in different countries. Shoppers should always verify the merchant's country before making any payments.

Another important tip is to secure banking across countries. Enabling transaction alerts for each account is a recommended practice. These alerts provide immediate notifications of any suspicious charges, allowing consumers to act swiftly if something seems amiss. It's also essential to ensure that contact details are consistent across all regions to receive fraud alerts promptly.

When it comes to travel-related purchases, caution is advised. Hannan suggests being mindful when booking travel, particularly if advertisements for great deals appear on social media. "Independently verify you’re clicking through to an official, trusted website and company," he advises. He also recommends avoiding the use of shared computers or unsecured Wi-Fi for online purchases or currency transfers while travelling.

International delivery and customs scams are another area of concern. Shoppers are advised to verify delivery updates through official courier websites or retailer tracking links. Import duties or fees should never be paid through links in texts or emails, as this is a common scam tactic.

Lastly, consumers should be wary of foreign-currency and investment scams. Advertisements for "exclusive" foreign investment offers or "discounted" international gift cards should be approached with scepticism. Hannan underscores this by stating, "Legitimate banks will never ask you to transfer money between international accounts for security reasons."

Fraudsters are becoming more sophisticated

The sophistication of fraudsters has increased, especially during global shopping events like Black Friday. Hannan remarks, "Fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, especially during global shopping events like Black Friday. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, shoppers can enjoy the deals without falling victim to scams."

The advice from HSBC is not just for their customers but for all international shoppers. With the right precautions, consumers can enjoy the benefits of Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals without falling prey to scams.

In the event that a shopper suspects they have been targeted by a scam, immediate action is crucial. HSBC advises contacting the bank immediately using the international helpline number listed on the card or app. Quick reporting can often mitigate the damage and help in recovering any potential losses.

As the shopping season approaches, the message from HSBC is clear: stay informed, remain vigilant, and take proactive measures to safeguard your finances. With these strategies, shoppers can navigate the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales safely, ensuring that their holiday season remains joyful and scam-free.

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As the global retail landscape gears up for another round of Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, consumers worldwide are being advised to proceed with caution. HSBC, one of the leading financial institutions, has issued a warning to international shoppers about the increased threat of fraud during this peak shopping period. The bank emphasises the necessity of vigilance, especially for those engaging in cross-border transactions.

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After a flat first half of 2025, first-home buyer (FHB) activity is set to lift—nudged by a five per cent deposit guarantee and the Reserve Bank’s first rate cut since 2020. But a rebound won’t be uniform. With activity still 31% below 2021 levels and investors re-entering hot pockets of Melbourne and beyond, the next six months will be a test of execution for lenders, brokers, developers and proptechs. This case study breaks down the market mechanics, the operational decisions that matter, the implementation realities—and where the ROI will materialise first.

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Case Study: Australia’s FHB market—From flatline to fragile recovery

Context: A demand pulse meets policy tailwinds

Fresh data cited by Money.com.au shows first-home buyer lending barely moved in the first half of 2025—up just 0.2%, essentially a standstill. Broker Daily reports activity to June sits 31% below the 2021 peak, underscoring how far the market remains from its pandemic-era crescendo. Two forces now point to a turn: policy and price of money. On policy, the federal government’s five per cent deposit guarantee is designed to reduce the deposit hurdle and lenders’ reliance on lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) for eligible buyers. On rates, the Reserve Bank’s February 2025 25-basis-point cut to 4.10%—the first since late 2020—offers modest serviceability relief and improves sentiment.

The counter-current is competition for stock. Investor confidence is on the rise, with reports of interstate buyers flying into Melbourne suburbs and pushing prices in family corridors—one Sunshine West home changing hands for $950,000—creating acute friction with entry-level buyers. In short: a modest cyclical tailwind is colliding with structural supply constraints and investor demand in select postcodes.

Decision: Where businesses pivot to capture the cycle

Across the mortgage value chain, the strategic question is where to commit resources now to gain share when volumes rebound:

• Lenders: Tilt product design and credit policy to the five per cent deposit cohort without over-extending risk appetite. Tighten to risk-based pricing and dynamic serviceability models to protect net interest margins.
• Brokers: Double down on scheme navigation, property caps, and eligibility coaching. Speed to pre-approval becomes a marketable edge when inventory turns quickly.
• Developers: Repackage stock to price points align with scheme caps and FHB budgets. Consider staged releases and incentives to smooth absorption.
• Proptechs: Build eligibility engines for the guarantee scheme and embed rate scenarios post-RBA cut. Link inventory discovery with pre-approval readiness.

The strategic calculus is simple: the rebound is not a tide that lifts all boats. It will primarily lift businesses that remove friction for first-time buyers faster than rivals, especially in markets with investor spillover.

Implementation: The mechanics that make a rebound real

Policy enablement: The five per cent deposit guarantee reduces the effective loan-to-value ratio risk for lenders by substituting part of the equity shortfall with a government guarantee, subject to eligibility and price caps. Operationalising this requires clean integration into credit workflows: eligibility checks, documentation templates, and automated LMI bypass logic. Missteps here slow cycle times—the kiss of death in competitive auctions.

Credit and risk: After a long rate-tightening cycle, many lenders still run elevated serviceability buffers. The February rate cut allows recalibration, but credit teams need guardrails to avoid whiplash. A prudent approach: scenario test 50–75 bps of additional buffer while enabling high-quality FHBs using the guarantee to pass serviceability. Risk-weighted asset (RWA) discipline matters—particularly for mid-tier banks—so risk-based pricing tied to postcode, property type, and borrower profile is essential to defend margin.

Distribution velocity: Brokers are the FHB front line. Investing in same-day document verification, digital income verification, and broker portal UX pays off. The benchmark to beat: one-touch conditional approval within 24–48 hours for clean files. Where investors are active, delays translate to lost deals.

Supply alignment: Developers and project marketers should calibrate releases to the scheme’s price caps and local demand elasticity. In investor-contested corridors (e.g., parts of Melbourne’s west), micro-targeting townhouse and apartment stock at FHB affordability bands helps counter bid pressure from cashed-up investors.

Results: Early signals, hard numbers

The macro picture is beginning to shift. Key datapoints:

• Activity base: FHB lending was essentially flat in H1 2025 (+0.2%), per Money.com.au, indicating a low base for growth.
• Gap to peak: Activity remains 31% below 2021 levels (Broker Daily), implying runway for reversion if affordability stabilises.
• Cost of funds: The RBA’s 25 bps cut to 4.10% in February 2025—modest on repayments but powerful for sentiment and serviceability margins at the edge.
• Competitive pressure: Investor resurgence is visible in Melbourne suburbs, with high-energy auctions and interstate buyers pushing a Sunshine West sale to $950,000, crowding FHBs at the margin.

Read together, these markers suggest a fragile but investable upturn. For businesses, the ROI case hinges on cycle-time gains and conversion uplift rather than price-led growth. If a lender or broker shaves 2–3 days off pre-approval and lifts FHB conversion by even 5–10% off a low base, the revenue impact compounds as volumes normalise.

Technical deep dive: Why the five per cent guarantee matters in practice

The guarantee’s power is friction reduction. For eligible borrowers with a five per cent deposit, the government guarantee can replace a portion of the usual 20% equity requirement, enabling purchase without LMI. That removes a multi-thousand-dollar upfront cost and reduces capital drag for lenders. The catch: limited places, income and property price caps, and strict documentation. Operational excellence beats promotion here. Embedded eligibility tools in broker CRMs, automated cap checks by postcode, and real-time place availability tracking are not nice-to-haves—they’re the difference between funded loans and lost customers.

Market trends and competitive dynamics

Using a simple PESTLE lens, policy (guarantee) and economic (rate cut) drivers are positive; social pressures (household formation) persist; legal/regulatory stability remains supportive; technological capability (digital verification, broker portals) is the lever early adopters can pull now. Porter’s Five Forces suggests rising rivalry for FHB share among mid-tier lenders and non-banks; buyer bargaining power increases with more options and faster pre-approvals; supplier power (capital markets, deposit funding) remains manageable post-cut; substitutes (renting) are less attractive where rents inflate; threat of new entrants from fintechs is credible in origination UX but constrained by funding scale.

Lessons: What leaders should do next

1) Prioritise eligibility and speed over rate gimmicks. In a tight inventory market, cycle time wins deals. Target sub-48-hour conditional approvals for clean FHB files using digital verification and pre-populated scheme workflows.

2) Make risk-based pricing the default. Protect margin by aligning price to risk at a granular level (postcode, dwelling type, LVR). The rate cut widens room for precision rather than blanket discounts.

3) Build FHB-specific product bundles. Pair guaranteed loans with budgeting tools and post-settlement support to lift retention. Propensity models should flag refinance risk at 18–24 months as incomes rise.

4) Align stock and marketing with scheme caps. Developers and agents should package and promote inventory at price points that fit local caps and FHB budgets, especially in suburbs seeing investor spillover.

5) Treat investor competition as a design constraint, not a surprise. In contested markets, buyer coaching (auction tactics, conditional offers), flexible settlement timelines, and pre-approved grant/guarantee documentation can tilt outcomes for FHB clients.

6) Plan for a staged upturn, not a snapback. With activity still a third below the 2021 peak, build capacity in modular blocks—scaling broker support, credit ops, and funding lines as volumes return.

Bottom line: Australia’s FHB rebound will reward operators who de-friction the journey and defend margin simultaneously. The macro nudge is here; the micro execution will decide who banks the upswing.

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• Yes

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After a flat first half of 2025, first-home buyer (FHB) activity is set to lift—nudged by a five per cent deposit guarantee and the Reserve Bank’s first rate cut since 2020. But a rebound won’t be uniform. With activity still 31% below 2021 levels and investors re-entering hot pockets of Melbourne and beyond, the next six months will be a test of execution for lenders, brokers, developers and proptechs. This case study breaks down the market mechanics, the operational decisions that matter, the implementation realities—and where the ROI will materialise first.

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As the festive season approaches, Australians are preparing to spend more on Christmas gifts and festive feasts compared to previous years. However, despite larger budgets, many are still on the hunt for bargains to make the most of their holiday spending, according to new research by Pureprofile Limited (ASX: PPL).

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The study reveals that the average Australian expects to spend $491 on gifts, up from $468 last year, and $506 on food and drinks, significantly higher than the $406 spent in 2024. This increase in spending comes as 78% of Australians adjust their Christmas budgets, up from 67% last year, to stretch their dollars further. Notably, 38% intend to spend less on gifts overall, a slight decrease from 41% in 2024, while 18% focus their gift-giving on children.

A significant driver of this budget-conscious approach is the growing popularity of Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, with 55% of Australians planning to do their Christmas shopping during these events, up from 45% in 2024. Retailers looking to attract these bargain hunters should note that percentage-off discounts are the most appealing to Australians (48%), followed by free shipping offers (15%).

Interestingly, despite the convenience of online shopping, Australians are increasingly favouring brick-and-mortar stores, with 61% preferring in-store shopping compared to 59% last year. This shift indicates a desire for tangible shopping experiences, even as online shopping remains popular with 38% of consumers.

The 2025 Christmas Report by Pureprofile, now in its seventh year, is a comprehensive global study based on insights from over 4,600 panel members across Australia, New Zealand, the UK, the USA, and Singapore. The report highlights that Australians are more inclined to give gifts than receive them, reflecting a value-driven and cautious mindset. The majority plan to spend between $301 and $1,000 on gifts, with 15% expecting to spend over $1,000, a figure that skews towards those aged 45–54.

This year, Australians are also changing their payment methods, with debit card usage rising to 56% from 50% last year, while credit card usage has fallen to 40% from 47%. Martin Filz, CEO of Pureprofile, commented on this trend, stating, "Australians are heading into Christmas spending with a blend of practicality and cautious optimism. A shift from credit card to debit card use signals a strong intent to celebrate within tighter financial control."

Gift cards and money remain the most desired gifts among Australians, though slightly less so than last year, with 43% preferring gift cards and 36% opting for money. Meanwhile, clothing and shoes have grown in popularity, with 41% of Australians favouring them, particularly among 18–24-year-olds. High-value gifts like technology and jewellery are also on the rise, reflecting a shift in consumer preferences.

In terms of festive feasting, three in five Australians plan to spend under $500 on food and drinks, with 21% opting for budget-friendly options. A third of Australians hope to receive food, confectionery, and drinks as gifts this year, up from 30% last year.

Travel is also high on the agenda, with nearly half of Australians intending to travel during the festive season. Of these, 25% plan to travel locally, 19% domestically, and 11% overseas. Younger Australians, particularly those aged 18–24, show a significant increase in interstate travel intentions.

Looking ahead to the new year, over half of Australians (56%) aim to save more money, reflecting ongoing cost-of-living pressures. Health and fitness goals (42%), travelling more (34%), and spending time with family (30%) are also top priorities. This blend of prudence and fulfilment is evident in spending plans, with travel, fashion, and household items ranking strongly.

As Australians navigate the festive season, the balance between celebration and financial prudence is clear. With rising costs and a cautious economic outlook, the focus remains on stretching budgets while maintaining traditional holiday cheer.

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As the festive season approaches, Australians are preparing to spend more on Christmas gifts and festive feasts compared to previous years. However, despite larger budgets, many are still on the hunt for bargains to make the most of their holiday spending, according to new research by Pureprofile Limited (ASX: PPL).

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In a year marked by persistent financial strain, only a meagre 7% of Australians believe that the cost of living has improved, according to the 2025 Household Budget Barometer released by Compare the Market. Despite attempts at economic stability and government interventions, the outlook remains grim for many households across the nation.

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The report, which serves as an annual gauge of financial wellbeing, reveals a troubling picture of economic sentiment. Just 22% of Australians express optimism about the future of the economy, even as inflation shows signs of moderation and the cash rate experiences a downward trend. These figures underscore the ongoing challenges faced by everyday Australians in navigating their financial landscapes.

In response to these pressures, a significant number of Australians are taking proactive measures to mitigate rising costs. The report highlights that nearly three-quarters of those surveyed (73%) have actively shopped around for better deals in the past year. This trend reflects a growing awareness and determination to maximise savings in an environment where every dollar counts.

Key insights from the Household Budget Barometer

The report sheds light on several key areas where Australians are seeking financial relief. Notably, there has been a year-on-year increase in the number of individuals searching for cheaper car insurance, with the figure rising to 47% in 2025. Additionally, 32% of respondents have compared home and contents cover, and 34% have switched electricity plans in search of savings. These statistics underscore a widespread shift towards more cost-conscious consumer behaviour.

However, the report also highlights the mounting financial pressures that continue to burden households. Average insurance premiums in Australia's five largest capitals have surged, with the cost of covering a four-bedroom home up nearly 23%, and car insurance premiums increasing by almost 18%. These rising costs contribute significantly to the financial strain experienced by many families.

Credit card debt among survey respondents has also seen a notable increase, rising by 9% year on year. Additionally, the use of Buy Now, Pay Later services has jumped by 8%, indicating a reliance on alternative payment methods as Australians strive to manage their expenses.

The report also notes that the median quarterly electricity bill has remained steady at $350, equating to an annual spend of $1,400. This stability offers a small reprieve amidst the broader landscape of rising costs. However, groceries continue to be a major concern, with one in five Australians (21%) rating them as their most worrisome household bill. The average Australian spends a staggering $10,304.32 on groceries annually, highlighting the significant impact of food costs on household budgets.

The Role of Intergenerational Support

David Koch, Compare the Market’s Economic Director, emphasises the importance of comparing, switching, and shopping smarter as essential tools for Australians navigating these challenging times. "Prices aren’t coming down – we’re just getting better at looking for value," Mr Koch stated. "Australians are comparing more than ever – whether it’s car insurance, electricity plans or grocery items. But that doesn’t mean life is getting easier."

The report also underscores the critical role of intergenerational support in helping families cope with financial pressures. From grandparents assisting their adult children to young people providing support for their ageing relatives, these family dynamics have become vital in weathering the economic storm. "While the government has chipped in with energy and childcare rebates, the most meaningful support has come from individuals supporting their families," Koch noted.

Despite the resilience shown by Australians, Koch calls for stronger action from governments and regulators to hold companies accountable when price hikes become excessive. "Tough times bring out the best in our communities, but it shouldn’t be up to everyday Aussies to carry such a heavy load alone," he said. "We need stronger action from governments and regulators to step in and hold companies to account when price hikes go too far."

As Australians continue to navigate the complexities of the cost-of-living crisis, Compare the Market remains committed to empowering consumers to push against high prices. By shopping around and switching where savings are available, individuals can take control of their financial situations and make informed decisions that benefit their back pockets.

The 2025 Household Budget Barometer, based on a survey of over 3,000 Australian adults, offers a comprehensive snapshot of the financial challenges and coping mechanisms employed by households across the country. Compare the Market's ongoing efforts to monitor spending trends and track insurance quote prices provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of Australia's cost of living.

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• Yes

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In a year marked by persistent financial strain, only a meagre 7% of Australians believe that the cost of living has improved, according to the 2025 Household Budget Barometer released by Compare the Market. Despite attempts at economic stability and government interventions, the outlook remains grim for many households across the nation.

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string(3) "url" ["default_value"]=> string(0) "" ["context"]=> string(19) "com_content.article" ["group_id"]=> int(3) ["label"]=> string(17) "First article URL" ["description"]=> string(0) "" ["required"]=> int(0) ["only_use_in_subform"]=> int(0) ["language_title"]=> NULL ["language_image"]=> NULL ["editor"]=> NULL ["access_level"]=> string(6) "Public" ["author_name"]=> string(18) "Jeremiah Sebastian" ["group_title"]=> string(16) "Related Articles" ["group_access"]=> int(1) ["group_state"]=> int(1) ["group_note"]=> string(0) "" ["value"]=> string(0) "" ["rawvalue"]=> string(0) "" } [8]=> object(stdClass)#10148 (33) { ["id"]=> int(8) ["title"]=> string(18) "Second article URL" ["name"]=> string(18) "second-article-url" ["checked_out"]=> NULL ["checked_out_time"]=> NULL ["note"]=> string(0) "" ["state"]=> int(1) ["access"]=> int(1) ["created_time"]=> string(19) "2020-07-08 05:42:04" ["created_user_id"]=> int(2351) ["ordering"]=> int(0) ["language"]=> string(1) "*" ["fieldparams"]=> 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NULL ["editor"]=> NULL ["access_level"]=> string(6) "Public" ["author_name"]=> string(18) "Jeremiah Sebastian" ["group_title"]=> string(16) "Related Articles" ["group_access"]=> int(1) ["group_state"]=> int(1) ["group_note"]=> string(0) "" ["value"]=> string(0) "" ["rawvalue"]=> string(0) "" } [9]=> object(stdClass)#10142 (33) { ["id"]=> int(9) ["title"]=> string(17) "Third article URL" ["name"]=> string(17) "third-article-url" ["checked_out"]=> NULL ["checked_out_time"]=> NULL ["note"]=> string(0) "" ["state"]=> int(1) ["access"]=> int(1) ["created_time"]=> string(19) "2020-07-08 05:42:42" ["created_user_id"]=> int(2351) ["ordering"]=> int(0) ["language"]=> string(1) "*" ["fieldparams"]=> object(Joomla\Registry\Registry)#9562 (3) { ["data":protected]=> object(stdClass)#9552 (1) { ["relative"]=> string(0) "" } ["initialized":protected]=> bool(true) ["separator":protected]=> string(1) "." } ["params"]=> object(Joomla\Registry\Registry)#9555 (3) { ["data":protected]=> 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string(0) "" } [4]=> object(stdClass)#10141 (33) { ["id"]=> int(4) ["title"]=> string(9) "Video URL" ["name"]=> string(9) "video-url" ["checked_out"]=> NULL ["checked_out_time"]=> NULL ["note"]=> string(0) "" ["state"]=> int(1) ["access"]=> int(1) ["created_time"]=> string(19) "2020-06-19 05:54:21" ["created_user_id"]=> int(2351) ["ordering"]=> int(1) ["language"]=> string(1) "*" ["fieldparams"]=> object(Joomla\Registry\Registry)#9559 (3) { ["data":protected]=> object(stdClass)#9557 (2) { ["filter"]=> string(0) "" ["maxlength"]=> string(0) "" } ["initialized":protected]=> bool(true) ["separator":protected]=> string(1) "." } ["params"]=> object(Joomla\Registry\Registry)#9558 (3) { ["data":protected]=> object(stdClass)#9586 (10) { ["hint"]=> string(0) "" ["class"]=> string(0) "" ["label_class"]=> string(0) "" ["show_on"]=> string(1) "2" ["render_class"]=> string(0) "" ["showlabel"]=> string(1) "1" ["label_render_class"]=> string(0) "" ["display"]=> string(1) "2" ["layout"]=> string(0) "" 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string(0) "" ["required"]=> int(0) ["only_use_in_subform"]=> int(0) ["language_title"]=> NULL ["language_image"]=> NULL ["editor"]=> NULL ["access_level"]=> string(6) "Public" ["author_name"]=> string(18) "Jeremiah Sebastian" ["group_title"]=> string(22) "Summary points + video" ["group_access"]=> int(1) ["group_state"]=> int(1) ["group_note"]=> string(0) "" ["value"]=> string(0) "" ["rawvalue"]=> string(0) "" } [5]=> object(stdClass)#10156 (33) { ["id"]=> int(5) ["title"]=> string(22) " Essential information" ["name"]=> string(21) "essential-information" ["checked_out"]=> NULL ["checked_out_time"]=> NULL ["note"]=> string(0) "" ["state"]=> int(1) ["access"]=> int(1) ["created_time"]=> string(19) "2020-06-25 06:10:20" ["created_user_id"]=> int(2351) ["ordering"]=> int(4) ["language"]=> string(1) "*" ["fieldparams"]=> object(Joomla\Registry\Registry)#9591 (3) { ["data":protected]=> object(stdClass)#9599 (4) { ["buttons"]=> string(0) "" ["width"]=> string(0) "" ["height"]=> string(0) "" 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"Public" ["author_name"]=> string(18) "Jeremiah Sebastian" ["group_title"]=> string(22) "Summary points + video" ["group_access"]=> int(1) ["group_state"]=> int(1) ["group_note"]=> string(0) "" ["value"]=> string(0) "" ["rawvalue"]=> string(0) "" } [2]=> object(stdClass)#10172 (33) { ["id"]=> int(2) ["title"]=> string(14) "Embedded Video" ["name"]=> string(14) "embedded-video" ["checked_out"]=> NULL ["checked_out_time"]=> NULL ["note"]=> string(0) "" ["state"]=> int(1) ["access"]=> int(1) ["created_time"]=> string(19) "2020-06-20 01:43:32" ["created_user_id"]=> int(2351) ["ordering"]=> int(5) ["language"]=> string(1) "*" ["fieldparams"]=> object(Joomla\Registry\Registry)#9598 (3) { ["data":protected]=> object(stdClass)#9603 (4) { ["buttons"]=> string(0) "" ["width"]=> string(0) "" ["height"]=> string(0) "" ["filter"]=> string(0) "" } ["initialized":protected]=> bool(true) ["separator":protected]=> string(1) "." } ["params"]=> object(Joomla\Registry\Registry)#9600 (3) { ["data":protected]=> object(stdClass)#9605 (10) { ["hint"]=> string(29) "Paste your embedded code here" ["class"]=> string(0) "" ["label_class"]=> string(0) "" ["show_on"]=> string(1) "2" ["render_class"]=> string(0) "" ["showlabel"]=> string(1) "1" ["label_render_class"]=> string(0) "" ["display"]=> string(1) "2" ["layout"]=> string(0) "" ["display_readonly"]=> string(1) "2" } ["initialized":protected]=> bool(true) ["separator":protected]=> string(1) "." } ["type"]=> string(6) "editor" ["default_value"]=> string(0) "" ["context"]=> string(19) "com_content.article" ["group_id"]=> int(2) ["label"]=> string(14) "Embedded Video" ["description"]=> string(0) "" ["required"]=> int(0) ["only_use_in_subform"]=> int(0) ["language_title"]=> NULL ["language_image"]=> NULL ["editor"]=> NULL ["access_level"]=> string(6) "Public" ["author_name"]=> string(18) "Jeremiah Sebastian" ["group_title"]=> string(22) "Summary points + video" ["group_access"]=> int(1) ["group_state"]=> int(1) ["group_note"]=> string(0) "" ["value"]=> string(0) "" ["rawvalue"]=> string(0) "" } } ["link"]=> string(82) "/save-money/how-to-budget/australians-grapple-with-stubborn-cost-of-living-in-2025" ["image"]=> string(115) "https://res.cloudinary.com/momentum-media-group-pty-ltd/image/upload/v1760642371/pexels-bekka419-1452717_dummr9.jpg" ["image_alt"]=> string(56) "Australians grapple with stubborn cost of living in 2025" } }