Running a household budget can be a challenge, especially on a student's limited income. There are a lot of bills and expenses to be covered, and often they all come in the mail at once!!

When you first move into a house, you need to pay to connect the power, gas and telephone. Other expenses might include internet access, contents insurance and expenses like furniture, appliances and other household items.

Putting together a household budget - and sticking to it - is important so that you make the most of the income you have. This section will help you consider your costs, manage your money and live on a student budget.

• You need to get power, gas and telephone connected to your new house by setting up an account in your name. This may take a few days, so try to organise it in advance!
• Water costs need to be negotiated between you and the landlord. If the landlord wants to organise for you to pay the bill, make sure you have it recorded in the rental agreement and get the meter read on the day you move in and out so you only pay for the water you have used.
• Decide on your budget [what you can realistically afford] and stick to it – don’t be panicked into paying more than you can afford.
• Write a weekly plan for your meals and set yourself a budget before you go food shopping. Take a calculator to the shops to help you stick to your budget!

Synergy Energy
Find out about getting your power connected.

Alinta Gas

Fido
The ins and outs of finding the right insurance plan for you.

Money Manager
Step by step guide to developing a household budget.

Phone Choice
Compare home internet and telephone package options.

ReachOut
How to organise bill payments with your housemates.

Water Corporation
Info on water rates, water saving measures and water restrictions.

Getting Out
Info about food shopping on a budget and how to keep household costs to a minimum.

Quokka
Buy and sell cheap household items in the Quokka paper.

Better Health Channel
Cooking and eating healthy food on a student budget.