Account Conduct: Why it matters

The good news? Nothing is stopping you from doing this. It’s about a mindset shift. Don’t try to overhaul your whole life overnight. Start with small, realistic steps. Here are two things I’d focus on: 1. Budgeting It’s not rocket science. It’s simple math. Let’s say you want to save $500 a fortnight: Income minus savings ($500) minus expenses equals your leftover discretionary spending. Prioritise your savings over your spending. If you’re serious about saving, you have to do this. If you’re not, that’s fine too. Just don’t complain about not having savings. 2. Education There’s so much good info out there now. There’s really no excuse for not having basic financial literacy. Follow people like me for mortgage-specific advice, but also look for content on investing, mindset, and money management. Try swapping out music for a podcast for an hour a day. I like Keep The Change (not a sponsor, but would be cool). It’s honest and straight to the point. Remember, it’s good to listen to information but it’s even better to get individualised advice. A practical reminder: When you apply for a mortgage, banks generally want to see the last three months of statements. That’s it. Three months of showing you can live within your means. So, tidy up your account conduct for that period. You don’t have to cut out everything that makes you happy but cut out the stuff that doesn’t add value. Dining out with friends might be worth it. Takeaways three times a week? Maybe not. Stop buying luxury clothes on Afterpay. If you can’t afford it now, that’s fine. Life goes on without the latest Hoodrich clothing. At the end of the day, it depends what you want. But remember, your bank statements are like your financial CV. Make sure they tell the story you want them to.