Nine surprisingly simple tricks Australians use to make extra $20,000 per year
- Replies 0
Let’s face it: the cost of living in Australia keeps going up, and for many, tightening the belt only goes so far.
Whether you’re looking to top up your super, save for a memorable holiday, or just make life a little more comfortable, finding ways to boost your income can make a difference—especially for those of us in the over-60s club!
The good news is that there are plenty of clever, practical ways to put more money in your pocket without having to take on a second job or sacrifice your precious free time.
We’ve rounded up nine surprisingly simple tricks that could help you make (or save) up to $20,000 a year—no complicated investments or get-rich-quick schemes required.
1. Get Paid to Shop: Use Cashback Apps
If you’re already shopping online or in-store, why not get a little something back for your trouble?
Cashback apps like ShopBack and Cashrewards reward you with real cash every time you make a purchase through their platforms.
Simply install the browser extension or app, and you’ll be notified when cashback is available on your favourite sites.
The trick is to use these apps only when you’re already planning to buy—don’t let the lure of a big cashback tempt you into unnecessary spending!
Over the course of a year, savvy shoppers can pocket upwards of $1,000 just by clicking a button before they check out.
2. Rent Out Your Stuff (Without Saying Goodbye)
We all have things lying around the house that we don’t use every day—think caravans, spare rooms, driveways, power tools, or even your swimming pool!
Instead of letting them gather dust, consider renting them out on platforms like Camplify (for caravans), Spacer (for storage and parking), or even Swimply (for pools).
You can also rent out designer clothes, camera gear, or even panels on your car for advertising.
The possibilities are endless, and you could easily make $1,500 or more a year—without having to part with your beloved belongings.
3. Make Spare Time Pay: Complete Online Surveys
Waiting at the doctor’s office? Sitting in the car while the grandkids are at sport? Instead of scrolling through social media, why not earn a few extra dollars by completing online surveys?
Sites like Octopus Group, Stable Research, and Askable pay you for your opinions, and while you won’t get rich overnight, it’s a great way to turn idle moments into cash.
Some surveys pay up to $50 each, and if you’re consistent, you could add a few hundred dollars to your annual income with minimal effort.
4. Slash Your Mortgage: Ask for a Better Rate
This tip could save you thousands if you’re still paying off your home.
Simply email or call your mortgage broker and ask if you’re on the best possible rate.
It takes just a few minutes to get the ball rolling, and you might be surprised at how much you can save—some Aussies report saving upwards of $3,500 a year just by negotiating!
Even if you’re mortgage-free, this is a great reminder to regularly review any loans or credit products you have.
5. Use Tech to Cut Food Costs
Food waste is a hidden drain on many households, with the average Aussie family throwing out around $50 worth of food every week.
Apps like Supercook help you use up what’s already in your pantry by suggesting recipes based on what you have, while grocery comparison apps like Frugl, Wiselist, and Half Price help you find the best deals and avoid paying the dreaded 'loyalty tax'.
By being a little more strategic with your shopping and meal planning, you could save upwards of $2,600 a year—money that’s much better in your pocket than in the bin!
6. Get Paid to Walk or Pet-Sit
Love animals? Turn your daily walk or time at home into a money-maker by signing up as a pet walker or sitter.
Sites like Mad Paws and Pawshake connect you with pet owners in your area who need a helping hand.
Some people make up to $15,000 a year doing this part-time, and it’s a great way to get some exercise and furry cuddles at the same time.
7. Don’t Be Shy—Ask for a Pay Rise
If you’re still working, don’t underestimate the power of simply asking for a pay rise.
The key is to come prepared: gather evidence of your contributions, research what others in similar roles earn, and make a strong case for why you deserve more.
Even a modest increase of $2,000 a year can make a big difference over time.
8. Find Forgotten Money
It might sound too good to be true, but there’s a surprising amount of 'lost' money out there—old bank accounts, forgotten shares, unclaimed super, and more.
The Australian Tax Office and MoneySmart websites have tools to help you track down any cash that’s rightfully yours.
You might only find $10, or you could uncover thousands!
And don’t forget to check under the couch cushions, in old handbags, or in the glovebox—every little bit counts.
9. Negotiate Your Bills
When did you last check your phone, internet, or electricity bill?
Many of us set up direct debits and forget about them, but a quick call to your provider can often result in a better deal.
Don’t be afraid to shop around or mention competitor offers—companies are keen to keep your business and may offer discounts or bonuses to stay.
Even shaving a few dollars off each bill can add up to hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars a year.
Bonus Tip: Keep Your Extra Cash Safe
Once you start finding and saving all this extra money, don’t let it disappear into everyday spending.
Open a separate bank account and transfer your 'found' money there.
Whether you use it to pay down debt, build a rainy-day fund, or treat yourself to something special, being intentional with your extra cash will help you make the most of your efforts.
Final Thoughts
Making an extra $20,000 a year might sound like a tall order, but as you can see, it’s often a matter of making small, smart changes and being more proactive with your money.
Whether you try one or all of these tips, every bit helps—and you might be surprised at how quickly it adds up.
And remember, every dollar counts—so why not start today?
Have you tried any of these tricks, or do you have your own money-making tips to share? Let us know in the comments below—we’d love to hear your stories and ideas!
Whether you’re looking to top up your super, save for a memorable holiday, or just make life a little more comfortable, finding ways to boost your income can make a difference—especially for those of us in the over-60s club!
The good news is that there are plenty of clever, practical ways to put more money in your pocket without having to take on a second job or sacrifice your precious free time.
We’ve rounded up nine surprisingly simple tricks that could help you make (or save) up to $20,000 a year—no complicated investments or get-rich-quick schemes required.
Quick strategies to boost annual income by up to $20,000 have been used by Australians, including cashback apps, item rentals, and online surveys. Credit: Depositphotos
1. Get Paid to Shop: Use Cashback Apps
If you’re already shopping online or in-store, why not get a little something back for your trouble?
Cashback apps like ShopBack and Cashrewards reward you with real cash every time you make a purchase through their platforms.
Simply install the browser extension or app, and you’ll be notified when cashback is available on your favourite sites.
The trick is to use these apps only when you’re already planning to buy—don’t let the lure of a big cashback tempt you into unnecessary spending!
Over the course of a year, savvy shoppers can pocket upwards of $1,000 just by clicking a button before they check out.
2. Rent Out Your Stuff (Without Saying Goodbye)
We all have things lying around the house that we don’t use every day—think caravans, spare rooms, driveways, power tools, or even your swimming pool!
Instead of letting them gather dust, consider renting them out on platforms like Camplify (for caravans), Spacer (for storage and parking), or even Swimply (for pools).
You can also rent out designer clothes, camera gear, or even panels on your car for advertising.
The possibilities are endless, and you could easily make $1,500 or more a year—without having to part with your beloved belongings.
Waiting at the doctor’s office? Sitting in the car while the grandkids are at sport? Instead of scrolling through social media, why not earn a few extra dollars by completing online surveys?
Sites like Octopus Group, Stable Research, and Askable pay you for your opinions, and while you won’t get rich overnight, it’s a great way to turn idle moments into cash.
Some surveys pay up to $50 each, and if you’re consistent, you could add a few hundred dollars to your annual income with minimal effort.
4. Slash Your Mortgage: Ask for a Better Rate
This tip could save you thousands if you’re still paying off your home.
Simply email or call your mortgage broker and ask if you’re on the best possible rate.
It takes just a few minutes to get the ball rolling, and you might be surprised at how much you can save—some Aussies report saving upwards of $3,500 a year just by negotiating!
Even if you’re mortgage-free, this is a great reminder to regularly review any loans or credit products you have.
Food waste is a hidden drain on many households, with the average Aussie family throwing out around $50 worth of food every week.
Apps like Supercook help you use up what’s already in your pantry by suggesting recipes based on what you have, while grocery comparison apps like Frugl, Wiselist, and Half Price help you find the best deals and avoid paying the dreaded 'loyalty tax'.
By being a little more strategic with your shopping and meal planning, you could save upwards of $2,600 a year—money that’s much better in your pocket than in the bin!
6. Get Paid to Walk or Pet-Sit
Love animals? Turn your daily walk or time at home into a money-maker by signing up as a pet walker or sitter.
Sites like Mad Paws and Pawshake connect you with pet owners in your area who need a helping hand.
Some people make up to $15,000 a year doing this part-time, and it’s a great way to get some exercise and furry cuddles at the same time.
If you’re still working, don’t underestimate the power of simply asking for a pay rise.
The key is to come prepared: gather evidence of your contributions, research what others in similar roles earn, and make a strong case for why you deserve more.
Even a modest increase of $2,000 a year can make a big difference over time.
8. Find Forgotten Money
It might sound too good to be true, but there’s a surprising amount of 'lost' money out there—old bank accounts, forgotten shares, unclaimed super, and more.
The Australian Tax Office and MoneySmart websites have tools to help you track down any cash that’s rightfully yours.
You might only find $10, or you could uncover thousands!
And don’t forget to check under the couch cushions, in old handbags, or in the glovebox—every little bit counts.
When did you last check your phone, internet, or electricity bill?
Many of us set up direct debits and forget about them, but a quick call to your provider can often result in a better deal.
Don’t be afraid to shop around or mention competitor offers—companies are keen to keep your business and may offer discounts or bonuses to stay.
Even shaving a few dollars off each bill can add up to hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars a year.
Bonus Tip: Keep Your Extra Cash Safe
Once you start finding and saving all this extra money, don’t let it disappear into everyday spending.
Open a separate bank account and transfer your 'found' money there.
Whether you use it to pay down debt, build a rainy-day fund, or treat yourself to something special, being intentional with your extra cash will help you make the most of your efforts.
Making an extra $20,000 a year might sound like a tall order, but as you can see, it’s often a matter of making small, smart changes and being more proactive with your money.
Whether you try one or all of these tips, every bit helps—and you might be surprised at how quickly it adds up.
And remember, every dollar counts—so why not start today?
