More than nine million Australians struggling with less than $1000 in the bank, new research from Finder reveals
More than nine million Australians are one major bill away from financial ruin, shock new research from comparison site Finder has revealed.
A new survey found 43 per cent of Australians have less than $1000 in their bank account, putting them just inches away from breaking point.
Of those with less than a grand in savings, the average account balance was $215 which is the average weekly grocery bill for NSW households according to Finder.
More than half of respondents admitted they lived month to month and almost one in five - equivalent to 3.8 million people – said they have $0 in savings.
Finder's personal finance expert Sarah Megginson said mounting cost of living pressures over the past few years had crippled many families' budgets.
'The nation's savings crisis has hit a breaking point, and it's pushing millions to the edge of financial ruin,' Ms Megginson said.
'For many households, even an unexpected minor expense like a cracked windscreen or an emergency trip to the dentist, it would be enough to cause serious financial stress.'
While millions have no savings, there is wide disparity between the haves and have-nots in Australia.
Finder's research showed the average Australian holds more than $43,000 in the bank, putting them in a safe financial position if an unexpected expense arrives.
Australians with low savings, however, are at higher risk of becoming overwhelmed with crippling debt due to a lack of a financial buffer, Ms Megginson said.
'While tools like credit cards, personal loans, and buy-now-pay-later services can be helpful, using them for everyday expenses can quickly lead to a spiralling financial situation,' she said.
Finder's shock revelation comes after the comparison site found many households were desperate for their tax refund.
Almost one in four respondents to another Finder survey said a tax refund was very important to their financial health while 41 per cent said the cash was somewhat important.
About 47 per cent of taxpayers expect a tax refund after July 1 and the average taxpayer anticipates a $1519 refund.
This will deliver a total of $15.3 billion back into the pockets of everyday shoppers across the nation.
Finder's head of consumer research Graham Cooke said the cash injection will be critical for Australians with little savings.
'Many households living month-to-month will be particularly keen to access these funds,' Mr Cooke said.
'For those struggling with the rising cost of living, a cash boost will offer some necessary financial reprieve.'
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