In a world where the cost of living seems to be perpetually on the rise, and the pressures of financial obligations can weigh heavily on our shoulders, the story of Jo Nemeth is nothing short of remarkable. This 46-year-old woman from the NSW North Coast has been living a life that many of us might find unimaginable: she has not used a single cent of money nor owned a bank account for nearly a decade.


Jo's journey into a moneyless existence began in 2015 when she decided to step away from the rat race. Overwhelmed by the relentless cycle of rent, bills, and the corporate grind, she took a leap of faith that would drastically change her life. She handed over all her money and bank accounts to her then-18-year-old daughter and embarked on a new path, one that led her to a friend's farm, where she built a small shack from salvaged building materials.


Living in her humble abode, Jo has found a way to thrive without the need for currency. She works around the house, putting in ten-hour days, five days a week, doing tasks she genuinely enjoys. In lieu of paying rent, she contributes by cooking, cleaning, gardening, and creating essential household items like soap, vinegar, and bread. Her lifestyle is a testament to the power of self-sufficiency and the value of bartering—trading her goods with others or waiting for special occasions like birthdays or Christmas to ask for what she needs.


Jo's resourcefulness extends to her use of technology. Without personal funds, she relies on the generosity of neighbours and the community spirit found on 'Buy Nothing' Facebook pages. She accesses the internet through household Wi-Fi and communicates with a phone that was gifted to her. When it comes to healthcare, she turns to home remedies and takes advantage of free healthcare services when necessary.

The simplicity and freedom of her lifestyle have brought her a profound sense of happiness, far removed from the stress of financial burdens. Jo's story is a powerful reminder that alternative ways of living are not only possible but can also create mutually beneficial relationships. She has found a community that values her contributions and shares in the benefits of a cooperative living arrangement.

However, even the most idyllic lifestyles face challenges. For Jo, the hurdle that she cannot overcome without money is dental care. As she approaches her ten-year anniversary of living without money, she has set up a GoFundMe to cover the costs of necessary dental work, a poignant reminder that some aspects of modern life still require financial transactions.

Reflecting on her journey, Jo expresses some disappointment in the lack of widespread change towards the climate crisis and consumer culture. Despite her hopes that her example might inspire others to reconsider their consumption habits, she acknowledges the powerful grip of a culture centred on materialism. Yet, this realisation has not dampened her determination to continue her moneyless lifestyle.

For our readers over 60, Jo's story might resonate on different levels. Whether it's the desire to simplify life, reduce environmental impact, or find freedom from financial stress, there's inspiration to be found in her approach. While not everyone is ready to give up money entirely, there are lessons to be learned about living with less and finding joy in non-materialistic pursuits.
We invite you to share your thoughts on Jo's lifestyle. Could you see yourself adopting any of her practices, or do you have your own strategies for living a fulfilling life on a budget? Let's discuss in the comments below how we can all find our own ways to thrive in today's world.