'Get a job': Centrelink beneficiary garners mixed reactions from fellow Aussies
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In a society where the cost of living is constantly on the rise, financial security could be a distant dream for many.
However, the story of a single mum sparked a heated debate across the nation.
Susie, a 22-year-old mum, managed to save $20,000 for a car deposit while relying on Centrelink payments—a feat that has left many Australians both outraged and inspired.
It took her two years of frugal living while making the most of government subsidies to save a massive amount.
Her weekly Centrelink income is about $850, including benefits from social housing and the Family Tax Benefit.
However, her disciplined lifestyle made a difference and contributed heavily to her savings.
Susie gave up vices like smoking and drinking, forgoing professional beauty treatments, and cutting out non-essential expenses like takeaway coffee and dining out.
'These are just a few of the small sacrifices that I have made personally that have helped me reach my savings goal,' Susie shared in a video.
While Susie saved up the said amount, she continues doing so to fund her studies and a house in the future.
Susie's story became a testament to the power of budgeting and prioritising long-term goals.
However, her story also highlighted the struggles of many Australians unable to save as much as she did.
Several frustrated citizens aired their concerns, which showed the challenges of saving in today's economic climate.
'I don't know how people do it. I'm on $75,000 plus super, and I feel like a serf. I exist, occasionally eat and sleep,' one lamented.
'I can't save $20k, and I work a full-time job, struggle to pay bills and don't rely on handouts,' another shared.
The debate also touched on the purpose of Centrelink benefits.
'My wages are going to your savings. Get a job,' one wrote in disappointment.
'What do you mean "save up" while on Centrelink? I thought it was to cover essential costs, not to save up?' another asked.
However, others defended Susie and praised her goal-oriented mindset.
'This is the type of person I want Centrelink to go to—goal driven and financially intelligent,' one comment read.
'People don't understand that saving anything while on Centrelink is incredibly hard; you have to be super disciplined for a long time. Well done,' another commented.
Centrelink payments for pensioners, job seekers, and students were increased in March this year and aimed to provide relief from cost-of-living pressures.
For single parents like Susie, fortnightly payments rose by $17.50, while couples saw an increase of $12.30.
Aged, disability support and carer payments also saw a boost, with singles now receiving a maximum fortnightly rate of $1140.40 and couples up to $1,725.20.
Watch Susie's story here:
Source: @_arcane_02/TikTok
Susie's story raised important questions about the social safety net in Australia and its role in helping Aussies achieve financial independence.
It also served as a reminder that, regardless of income source, financial literacy and discipline are key to building savings.
What do you think of Susie's story? Are the current Centrelink payments enough to support those in need? Share your thoughts and opinions with us in the comments section below.
However, the story of a single mum sparked a heated debate across the nation.
Susie, a 22-year-old mum, managed to save $20,000 for a car deposit while relying on Centrelink payments—a feat that has left many Australians both outraged and inspired.
It took her two years of frugal living while making the most of government subsidies to save a massive amount.
Her weekly Centrelink income is about $850, including benefits from social housing and the Family Tax Benefit.
Susie managed to save up while being in university. Image Credit: TikTok/Susie
However, her disciplined lifestyle made a difference and contributed heavily to her savings.
Susie gave up vices like smoking and drinking, forgoing professional beauty treatments, and cutting out non-essential expenses like takeaway coffee and dining out.
'These are just a few of the small sacrifices that I have made personally that have helped me reach my savings goal,' Susie shared in a video.
While Susie saved up the said amount, she continues doing so to fund her studies and a house in the future.
Susie's story became a testament to the power of budgeting and prioritising long-term goals.
However, her story also highlighted the struggles of many Australians unable to save as much as she did.
Several frustrated citizens aired their concerns, which showed the challenges of saving in today's economic climate.
'I don't know how people do it. I'm on $75,000 plus super, and I feel like a serf. I exist, occasionally eat and sleep,' one lamented.
'I can't save $20k, and I work a full-time job, struggle to pay bills and don't rely on handouts,' another shared.
The debate also touched on the purpose of Centrelink benefits.
'My wages are going to your savings. Get a job,' one wrote in disappointment.
'What do you mean "save up" while on Centrelink? I thought it was to cover essential costs, not to save up?' another asked.
However, others defended Susie and praised her goal-oriented mindset.
'This is the type of person I want Centrelink to go to—goal driven and financially intelligent,' one comment read.
'People don't understand that saving anything while on Centrelink is incredibly hard; you have to be super disciplined for a long time. Well done,' another commented.
Centrelink payments for pensioners, job seekers, and students were increased in March this year and aimed to provide relief from cost-of-living pressures.
For single parents like Susie, fortnightly payments rose by $17.50, while couples saw an increase of $12.30.
Aged, disability support and carer payments also saw a boost, with singles now receiving a maximum fortnightly rate of $1140.40 and couples up to $1,725.20.
Watch Susie's story here:
Source: @_arcane_02/TikTok
Susie's story raised important questions about the social safety net in Australia and its role in helping Aussies achieve financial independence.
It also served as a reminder that, regardless of income source, financial literacy and discipline are key to building savings.
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