September 2, 2024
Private health insurance is failing older Australians
In a recent survey of policyholders over 50, more than half said they were struggling to pay their premiums.
Personal finance and money advice
Unbiased advice on insurance, banking, loans, tax and investments, including independent reviews and comparisons of financial products and institutions.
September 2, 2024
Why the best banks for saving aren’t the ones you’d expect
Most deposit accounts offering the best rates come from little-known institutions.
August 29, 2024
Saving for vet bills vs pet insurance: What’s best?
Is pet insurance worth it or are you better off putting aside savings to cover the cost of veterinary care?
August 21, 2024
Banks continue to leave scam victims in the lurch
The big four are doing very little to prevent scams or help victims, and smaller banks are no different.
Banking
October 22, 2025
CommBank needs to refund unfair fees, say Australians
CHOICE poll finds 88% of people want the bank to refund low-income customers.
October 8, 2025
The day the last bank left town
Like many communities around the country, the Victorian town of Yarram is reeling from the closure of their last bank.
September 25, 2025
Banks imposing non-disclosure agreements on scam victims
When reimbursements come with a gag order, the behaviour of banks stays off the public record.
September 15, 2025
Jordan overdrew her account to flee family violence, CommBank won’t stop charging her fees
The case raises fresh doubts over the bank’s willingness to refund low-income customers unfairly charged
Budget
September 15, 2025
Cost-cutting home entertainment hacks
Slash your home entertainment bills with these creative ideas for accessing low-cost or free books, music, movies and games.
September 8, 2025
How to save money shopping online
We share some unconventional ideas to reduce your online shopping bill.
May 21, 2025
How to shop smart and save money on new appliances in the EOFY sales
Fridge on the fritz or air fryer died? Here's our experts' tips to get the best deal and avoid sales traps and tricks.
May 13, 2025
Eight expert tips to cut your food bills
With food prices surging, our kitchen experts share how you can eat cheaper without sacrificing flavour.
Credit cards and loans
November 18, 2025
Financial counsellors raise concerns about MoneyMe’s lending practices
Quick-fix loans from non-bank lenders often come with high fees and interest rates that can make tight financial situations worse.
September 19, 2025
Using your credit card to buy gift cards? You might be paying more than you think
Helen was caught out by unexpected fees and high interest when using her CommBank credit card.
September 5, 2025
Harvey Norman and Latitude Finance’s appeal shut down in court
The judgement from the Full Federal Court comes on the heels of a 2020 CHOICE Shonky for the lender and retailer.
August 21, 2025
NAB blames victims for unauthorised credit card charges
Brian and his wife kept their card details safe, but the bank says the couple are to blame after a thief used their account and PIN.
Financial planning and investing
December 4, 2025
2026 retirement savings targets for homeowners: How much do you need to retire?
How much you need to maintain your standard of living, based on actual spending by retirees.
November 26, 2025
Self-managed super funds increasingly being used as a tool of financial abuse
Claire's former partner structured their joint SMSF to benefit him and she lost almost her entire retirement savings.
October 10, 2025
Many retirees with low super balances are still missing out on tax benefits
The super funds are using an obscure rule to penalise low-income account holders.
September 29, 2025
How to find a good financial adviser
Before you pay an adviser, make sure they're putting your needs first.
Insurance products
November 21, 2025
Car insurance policies to avoid
Ensure you’re getting the best deal – steer clear of these policies that failed to impress our experts.
November 19, 2025
Home and contents insurance policies to avoid
Looking for home insurance or reviewing your existing cover? CHOICE experts advise you to avoid these bad-value policies.
November 13, 2025
Do you need health insurance for ambulance cover?
Even if you're young and healthy, you might still want ambulance cover – we talk through the options.
November 5, 2025
Expensive Gold health insurance policies to avoid
These policies are costing you $500–$1000 more a year than similar Gold products.
Property and real estate
September 29, 2025
Rental rights are gaining ground, but some parts of Australia are being left behind
A new report reveals that WA, NT and Tasmania have made little progress in the fight for a fair rental market.
July 28, 2025
Rent bidding is now illegal, but tenants say it’s still happening
Agents and landlords are exploiting loopholes in legislation meant to outlaw the practice.
October 15, 2024
What will an end to no-grounds evictions mean for NSW renters?
New legislation is expected to take effect early next year that will require landlords to have a valid reason to kick you out.
September 13, 2024
Inquiry overdue into secret payments in strata insurance
A CHOICE investigation last year uncovered glaring conflicts of interest, now highlighted in a recent Four Corners program.