Smart Money Saving and Money Making Strategies for Perth
Locals In 2026

Let's be honest: managing money in 2026 isn't what it used to be. Between rising costs, tech changing everything, and the way we work evolving faster than ever, we all need to get a bit smarter about how we handle our finances.

But here's the thing: it's not all doom and gloom. If anything, there are more ways than ever to both save money and make a bit extra on the side. You just need to know where to look.

Let's Talk About Saving Money First

You know what's sneaky? Subscriptions. Netflix, Spotify, that meditation app you used twice, the meal kit service you forgot to cancel—they all add up. I'm guilty of it too. Take an hour every few months to go through your bank statement and you'll probably find at least a couple of things you're paying for that you don't actually use anymore. Cancel just two or three of these, and you could save a few hundred bucks a year without even noticing.

Here's something else most people don't do enough: negotiate. Seriously. Ring your internet provider, your phone company, your insurance company. Just ask if there's a better deal available. You'd be surprised how often they'll drop your bill just for asking. They're banking on you not bothering, so prove them wrong.

Technology's also getting pretty good at helping us save without much effort. There are apps now that'll compare grocery prices for you, help you plan meals so you waste less food, or find cheaper energy plans. I'm not saying go overboard with the tech, but if a tool can save you money in the background without you thinking about it, why not?

Buying second-hand isn't embarrassing anymore either. It's just smart. Furniture, electronics, tools, whatever. If it's something that loses value the second you buy it new, why not let someone else take that hit? You can save a heap and often get something just as good.

And if you're not already automating your savings, start now. Set up automatic transfers to a savings account or use one of those round-up apps that saves your spare change. When saving happens automatically, you don't have to rely on willpower. It just happens.

Now, Let's Talk About Making More Money

Saving's great, but earning more is even better. And in 2026, there are honestly so many ways to do it.

If you're good at something (anything, really) you can probably turn it into income. Online courses, consulting, templates, guides, newsletters—people will pay to learn from someone who's been there and done that. You don't need to be an expert at everything, just ahead of someone else in one thing.

AI's become a real game-changer too, but not in the scary robot-taking-jobs way. Think of it more as a tool that helps you do more in less time. Content creation, market research, building websites, creating marketing stuff. AI can handle the grunt work while you focus on the bits that actually need a human touch. It's like having an assistant who never sleeps.

Building a personal brand sounds wanky, but it actually works. People trust people more than they trust companies these days. Share what you know on LinkedIn, start a blog, write a newsletter. Whatever feels natural. You don't need millions of followers. You just need the right people paying attention.

Worth thinking about too: what skills could you learn that'd bump up your income? Things like data analysis, digital marketing, sales, negotiation, even just knowing how to use AI tools properly. These all pay well and they're portable. You can take them anywhere.

And don't forget about stuff you already own. Got a spare room? Tools sitting in the shed? A car that's parked most of the time? There are platforms now where you can rent out almost anything. If it's just sitting there doing nothing, it might as well be making you money.

A Few Bigger-Picture Thoughts

One income stream is risky in 2026. Doesn't matter if it's a great job; things change fast. Having a side project, some passive income, or even just multiple skills you could monetize gives you options.

You need both stability and growth. Keep an emergency fund so you can sleep at night, but also invest in things that'll grow, whether that's shares, managed funds, or putting money back into a side business.

And instead of just tracking your income, track your net worth. Watch your assets go up and your debts go down. It's way more motivating than just looking at your paycheck.

The Bottom Line

Saving money protects you today. Learning skills pays you tomorrow. Owning things (whether that's assets, income streams, or intellectual property) gives you freedom.

2026 doesn't have to be about feeling broke all the time. With a few smart moves, this could actually be the year you get ahead.

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Quick Note

This is general information, not financial advice. Everyone's situation is different, so chat to a financial advisor if you need help with your specific circumstances.