Book subsidised option if you feel that:
I am able to meet all my basic needs (e.g. food, housing, transport) but have daily stress about it
I may have some debt but it does not prohibit attainment of my basic needs
I rent a room or home at the lower end of the market
I own or lease a car but may not always be able to afford petrol
I am employed part-time OR studying with government financial support OR I have retired and have a pension to support my living expenses
I have access to Medicare and can occasionally see other healthcare practitioners (e.g. acupuncture, naturopathy, osteopathy) to support my wellbeing
I have under $2000 personal savings
I have some expendable income (e.g. to buy coffee or eat out) but it’s a stretch to buy new clothes, concert tickets, massages etc.
I am able to buy some new items but mainly buy secondhand
I can take a short holiday annually or every few years but it comes with some financial burden
Whether you’re curious, sceptical, or completely burnt out — the first step is the same.
© Simone Baldwin