Kickstart 2025 with smart money habits.

The New Year is all about fresh starts. With 2025 fast approaching, it’s the perfect time to reflect on your finances and take steps to set yourself up for success. While the holiday season may bring extra expenses, it’s also a great opportunity to start building better financial habits for the year ahead.

Review, reset, and prepare for a financially confident new year

Look Back to Move Forward

Understanding your current financial situation is the first step in shaping your financial future. Reflect on the following:

How much have you saved this year?

• Missed savings goals? Don't worry - use this as a chance to learn and reset.
• No goals set? Note your current savings and use that as your starting point for next year.

Where has your money gone?

• Review bank statements: Use your banking app to spot spending trends.
• Identify unnecessary expenses: Cancel unused subscriptions or reduce dining-out expenses to save more effectively.

Set clear, achievable goals

After reviewing your progress, it’s time to plan for 2025. What do you want to achieve?

Goal ideas:

• Build an emergency fund: Prepare for unexpected expenses.
• Pay down debt: Focus on credit cards or personal loans.
• Save for a home deposit: Or future investment property.
• Budget for home renovations: Plan upgrades for your home.

Break goals into manageable steps:

If saving $10,000 for a home deposit, aim to set aside $200 a week. Small wins will keep you motivated.

Start small, think big

Building better financial habits starts with practical, daily actions. Ask yourself: “What small change will I commit to this week?”

Small changes to consider:

• Cook at home: Reduce dining out to manage your budget.
• Use cash for discretionary spending: Withdraw a set amount weekly to stick to your budget.
• Track expenses:Use apps like Frollo or Moneytree to monitor your spending.
• Review accounts weekly: Stay informed about your finances.
• Wait 24 hours for non-essential purchases: Helps clarify if the purchase is necessary.
• Automatic savings transfers: Prioritise saving by setting up automatic transfers after payday.
• Use budgeting tools: Check out our Budget Planner on our website.

By committing to just one small change this week, you’ll take meaningful steps toward building better financial habits for the long term.

Stay on top of your financial commitments

• Monitor your interest rates

Regularly review your mortgage or loans to ensure they suit your financial situation.

• Consider extra repayments

Small extra repayments on your mortgage or loans can reduce the overall amount you pay and shorten the repayment period.

• Explore refinancing options

If your circumstances have changed, refinancing might provide better options aligned with your current needs.

Make habits count in 2025

Building better financial habits starts with small, consistent steps. Whether it’s saving, reviewing your spending, or creating a clear plan, each action brings you closer to your goals.

If your 2025 goals include buying a home, refinancing, or planning your next property move, we’re here to support you. Contact us today to get started. Book an appointment or call us at 1300 780 440.