12 Ways to Beat the Cost of Living in Melbourne

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The price of living in beautiful Melbourne just keeps going up and up, but that doesn't mean you need to have less fun or go without. Here are a dozen great tips and tricks so you can get the most out of your hard-earned money, enjoy life, and get the most out of this marvellous city

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIESSome museums and galleries in Melbourne with free basic entry are the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) , Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) , Science Gallery Melbourne , and many more.



TRANSPORTThere is a free tram zone in the Melbourne CBD, and you can travel between many city locations and it won't cost you a cent.

OP SHOPSOp Shops used to be a cheap source of second-hand clothes, toys, homewares, and furniture, and many are overpriced these days. One chain that has stayed surprisingly cheap is Savers with locations across Melbourne.

DINING AND PUBS The Happiest Hour website lists most of the best meal and drink specials at pubs and other venues in Melbourne and beyond.



GROCERIESAldi is a discount supermarket chain, with grocery prices generally lower than the competitors. The ' unit price ' is clearly shown so you know you are getting the best value on quality items. I'd also suggest you check out the great value wine, beer and spirits section near the front counter if you like to imbibe now and then. You can find your nearest store in Melbourne here .

BANKINGING often have the highest savings rate on the market. If you don't have one already, you can open an online account with ease at this link . I'd be interested to hear if you can find a better rate in Australia.

LIBRARIESIf you haven't been to your comfortable, temperature-controlled and inviting local library yet, then their address in Melbourne is here . Pop in and get a card, and it's not just about the books, many libraries have magazines, newspapers, DVDs, games, and more. Most libraries also hold free events for kids and host community groups and classes.



BIRTHDAYSThe list of birthday freebies here is simply astonishing - why not live like a royal for a day and get totally spoiled and shouted across Melbourne?

FITNESS

Go for a walk. There are over 1000 walks mapped and detailed here in metropolitan Melbourne. Bring a drink and a snack (and an umbrella), and get out there and explore.

INTERNET Whistleout is a site that lets you compare the price of mobile data and internet plans depending on your needs. The price of plans from providers changes regularly and depends on features like the size of the data plan, so it is best to shop around.

HEALTH INSURANCEHealth Insurance plans are confusing and difficult to compare. There is a government site here that does allow Victorians and others to compare features and levels of cover. If suitable, you can generally reduce your premium with a higher excess.

GIFT CARDSGet Stocard on your phone, do your shopping, and before you get to the counter, buy a discounted gift card and use it to pay. You can reduce your cost at major retailers like Kmart, Target JB Hi-Fi, Country Road, and many others, by about 2% to 7% or more.This is just a start, and there are many ways to save money, get more for less, and experience more in wonderful Melbourne this season. With a bit of planning and some smart choices, you'll stand a better chance at balancing the budget in challenging times.

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