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The launch comes as new RACQ research reveals two-thirds of Queenslanders are becoming savvy spenders, taking steps to combat cost of living pressures, including more than half using discounts.

Four in five Queenslanders have cut back on luxury items, two thirds spend less on eating out and takeaway, and 65% now opt for cheaper food brands or buying items on special.

RACQ spokesperson Ashleigh Paterson said as the festive season looms, it was encouraging to see Queenslanders making conscious spending decisions.

“We’re heading into one of the biggest spending times of the year, so it’s great to see many Queenslanders thinking about ways to save,” Ms Paterson said.

“RACQ Member Benefits is designed to make day-to-day life a little more affordable by offering discounts for some of the items we know are putting the most pressure on Queensland families.”

Ms Paterson said after mortgage and rent, the research revealed groceries and bills were having the biggest impact on household budgets.

“It’s been a challenging year for many people. We have faced six months of consecutive interest rate rises and the cost of food, fuel, and electricity have also increased substantially, leading to more and more people spending beyond their means.

“Our research indicates many Queenslanders aged between 25 – 34 and 65 - 74 are spending more than they can afford on rent/mortgage, bills, groceries, and/or fuel/transport.

“It’s also concerning that a third of all respondents use their credit card to pay for their everyday expenses and more than one in 10 (11%) rely on buy now, pay later schemes.”

Ms Paterson said now is the time to assess the family budget because taking simple steps can make a big difference down the track.

“Assess your spending habits by reviewing and highlighting the unnecessary purchases you make each day on your bank account statement,” she said.

“Shop around for deals on essentials such as petrol, phone and internet and contact your service providers to ask if you’re getting the best deal.”

Acknowledging the challenging environment, Ms Paterson said help was available for RACQ members who were experiencing financial hardship.

“We urge anyone who is feeling overwhelmed by their finances not to suffer in silence and to reach out.

“The earlier we’re contacted, the sooner we can find ways to help whether that be fast-tracking financial hardship requests or providing assistance and flexibility with payment options.”

RACQ members can access savings on everyday essentials from Woolworths Supermarket Store eGift Cards, Caltex and OPSM as well as a range of discounts on shopping, travel and experiences.

How RACQ Member Benefits platform works

• Go to racq.com/benefits.
• Login or register for MyRACQ
• Access discounts across car and fuel, movies and experiences, food and dining, shopping, travel and holidays.

Any advice contained in the document is general advice and does not take into account any person's particular investment objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on anything based on this advice you should consider its appropriateness to you, having regard to your objectives, financial situations and needs.