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The top 11 situations to always haggle for a lower price

<p><strong>Mortgage rates</strong></p> <p>Buying a new home is probably the biggest purchase you will make over the course of your life, so every last penny you can save is worth it. “Borrowers should shop their business around to many banks/lenders to see what rates are available,” says mortgage broker Ade Labinjo. “Then use the rates obtained to pit the banks against each other for the purpose of either matching or driving down the rates they were quoted.”</p> <p>Labinjo says that by getting at least one extra quote rate, the average borrower could save up to $1,500. Never settle for the initial quote rate that the bank offers you – haggle for a better price because chances are, they’re not giving you their absolute best offer upfront.</p> <p><strong>Flea markets, farmers markets, garage sales</strong></p> <p>At flea markets, farmers markets, and garage sales the sellers typically set their own price. If you know how to haggle, this is a great opportunity to get a really good deal. Also, see if buying in bulk or large quantities can get you a price reduction.</p> <p><strong>Hotel rooms</strong></p> <p>Hotels want their rooms filled, so it never hurts to haggle with the people at the front desk for a better price or room upgrades. “Hotels have to pay a commission to booking websites, and pass on some of that as a benefit to the user,” says Saurabh Jindal, founder of Talk Travel.</p> <p>If you find that the price is the same on the booking website and the hotel’s website, ask the hotel for a room with a better view or more amenities. “Hotels have rooms allocated to various booking platforms and may give you a better option which has not yet been sold.”</p> <p><strong>Memberships</strong></p> <p>Memberships always come along with extra fees. It might be a renewal fee, startup fee, or a maintenance fee if it’s your gym membership. Ask if they can waive some of the fees or threaten to cancel and go somewhere else. They want to keep making money off of you and might just give you a discount.</p> <p><strong>Lease renewal </strong></p> <p>If you’re considering re-signing your lease, know that it is most likely more expensive for the landlord to prepare your apartment for a new tenant than to lease to you for another year. If you’ve had a good relationship with your landlord, try to negotiate in a deal before you re-sign. If the landlord is going to increase your rent, ask if you can increase it by less or not at all. If you consistently pay rent on time, are a respectful neighbour, and take good care of your apartment they may keep your rent from increasing.</p> <p>It’s important to remember who your lease is with though, says Julie Ramhold, Consumer Expert at DealNews.com. If your apartment is owned by a management company, they probably won’t offer any wiggle room. But, if you’re renting from a single landlord or owner, try negotiating for a lower price.</p> <p><strong>Online selling platforms </strong></p> <p>People who post items for sale online are typically moving or looking to get rid of unwanted items. Use that to your advantage and ask for a lower price – the worst they can say is no. You could also offer to come and pick it up quickly if they give you a better deal.</p> <p><strong>Internet and phone bill</strong></p> <p>As annoying as your internet and phone provider may be, they don’t want to lose you as a customer. “If you’re signing up or looking to renew, sometimes you can get a lower rate by telling a rep what the competitor is offering and saying it works better with your budget,” says Ramhold.</p> <p>A lot of cable companies give you a promotional price for your first year, make sure to call right before the price goes up for your second year. The competitors will most likely offer better prices for new customers and that can work in your advantage and possibly get you a better deal with your current provider.</p> <p><strong>Insurance rates</strong></p> <p>Just like internet providers, insurance companies don’t want you to switch to a different provider. “Use your customer loyalty to your advantage and try to talk to the right person on the phone,” says Kelan Kline a personal finance expert and co-founder of The Savvy Couple. “Tell them the service you are receiving is not good enough for the price.” They might offer you a discount to keep you.</p> <p><strong>Home services</strong></p> <p>If you’re renovating your kitchen or getting some landscaping done, make sure to shop around and get a few different quotes first. Use those quotes to negotiate with the contractor you want to work with. Also, you may be able to haggle for a better price if you offer to pay upfront in cash or schedule a contractor during the winter months when business is typically slower.</p> <p><strong>Jewellery</strong></p> <p>“You should know that the markup on diamond jewellery is anywhere from 50 to 200 per cent and more,” says Chhavi Agarwal, a personal finance expert. There is always room for haggling. Agarwal suggests politely making a counteroffer. You’d be surprised the changes they are willing to make to the bill. If they refuse to come down in price, try to haggle the labour charges.</p> <p><strong>Returned items </strong></p> <p>Never miss an opportunity to haggle for a better price on items that have been returned to stores. Stores will typically mark returned items that have been slightly used or have a ding with a price reduction, but it doesn’t hurt to ask for more off. They know that items that have already been opened aren’t as appealing to customers and they want to get them sold.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 26px;"><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/food-home-garden/money/11-times-you-should-always-haggle-for-a-better-price?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>. </em></p>

Money & Banking

Financial guru reveals how to shop at Costco without membership

<p>With the cost of living crisis, people have started abandoning their local supermarkets and heading to Costco to do a shop that doesn't break the bank.</p> <p>While best known for its deals, shoppers must have a membership with the wholesaler, meaning they pay a yearly fee of $60 to shop there.</p> <p>However, one bargain hunter and money-saving expert has revealed how to shop at the supermarket without paying the membership fee.</p> <p>To access a Costco without a membership, shoppers need a shop card, financial guru Little Birdie explained.</p> <p>The cards can be preloaded with any amount from $25 to $999.99, with recipients then able to use them for purchase in store.</p> <p>There is a catch - the cards have to be bought by a current member, and can’t be used online, or in fuel stations, Birdie continued in her TikTok.</p> <p>Currently, there are only 15 stores across Australia.</p> <p>Parents of larger families have reported getting hundreds of dollars off their grocery bills by buying in bulk at Costco.</p> <p>“Every time I go to Costco, my favourite part is seeing how much money I saved. Yesterday was my first trip there in a few years. I spent $593,” one woman wrote on Facebook.</p> <p>“I did a (fake) online order with Coles, selecting equal quantities as what I have purchased at Costco. Coles would have cost me $783.”</p> <p>She claimed the quality of the products, particularly meat, is better than other stores and is the ideal place to purchase expensive dog food in bulk at a quarter of the price.</p> <p>“We actually ended up saving around $35, on approximately six weeks food for our dogs. But the real win is that we have it already, and don't have to get stress when we're running out and all the supermarkets are out of stock!”</p> <p>The wholesaler has served to help many families in desperate times with one woman saying she <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/food-wine/groceries-option-even-cheaper-than-aldi" target="_blank" rel="noopener">saved a whopping $600</a> by shopping at Costco.</p> <p><em>Image credit: TikTok</em></p>

Money & Banking

Bargain rental is “spacious” but missing key features

<p dir="ltr">A studio apartment up for rent in Birmingham, England, for less than $750 a month isn’t unusual just for its cheap price - it’s missing some crucial amenities.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-4a26e5d2-7fff-aad2-4edd-6e98fbb2a687"><a href="https://www.rightmove.co.uk/properties/126124685#/?channel=RES_LET" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Listed on Rightmove</a> for £425 ($AU 728) a month, the studio’s shower is located in an unlikely spot, directly opposite the bed.</span></p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/08/cheap-uk-flat1.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The prime location of the shower in relation to the bed could be a perk for some, but it's clear screen makes for a lack of privacy. Image: RightMove</em></p> <p dir="ltr">To make matters worse, the shower is encased in a clear cubicle, with no toilet in sight.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-2202e8a0-7fff-c3ac-076b-a476d3d72403"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">The kitchen, located on the other side of the room, seems to consist of sink and cabinet underneath, a fridge, an oven, and another cabinet above a tile splashback.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/08/cheap-uk-flat2.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The rental's kitchen boasts an oven, two cabinets, a fridge, a sink and a bench (plus an overflowing bin). Image: RightMove</em></p> <p dir="ltr">The apartment, described as “spacious” and “part-furnished”, also includes a single mattress crammed in one corner, with a lounge chair stationed right next to the oven.</p> <p dir="ltr">Though it is just a single room, the listing agent described it as a “great home for single working professionals”.</p> <p dir="ltr">It comes just months after a similar apartment in Australia sparked outrage, with many slamming the renovated rental as “real-life satire”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Like its British counterpart, the <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/property/real-estate/greedy-and-despicable-rental-renovation-causes-outrage" target="_blank" rel="noopener">North Adelaide studio apartment</a> featured a bathroom with a clear casing - though it does come with a toilet and a shred of privacy in the form of selective frosted glass - but differed in its hefty price amid the city’s worsening rental crisis.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-9957ed18-7fff-dbe9-5d8b-a2177f94a35f"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: RightMove</em></p>

Real Estate

Scam alert: Kmart customers targeted in bargain hunting Facebook groups

<p>Kmart customers have been warned about a new scam circulating in bargain hunting Facebook groups.</p> <p>They have been warned to watch for advertisements offering Nintendo Switches for $2.95.</p> <p>The fake Facebook post has been circulating in parents' groups online and has already fooled a number of Aussies into handing their card details over.</p> <p>The post includes a photograph showing a doctored Kmart price tag displaying that the gaming device has been reduced from $379.86 to $2.95.</p> <p>It also claims that the lower price point is due to a contract dispute between Kmart and Nintendo.</p> <p>Not only is this is factually incorrect, but it is one of the first signs something is obviously fake, as it is too-good-to-be-true.</p> <p>“Kmart broke its contract with Nintendo and is giving away a Nintendo Switch game console to every Australian for $2.95,” the caption on the scam post reads.</p> <p>One shopper claimed her friend had lost $700 after falling for the scam, as the fraudsters took her bank details and withdrew money.</p> <p>“BEWARE. Another scam page going around, also there is a Dyson one,” she said.</p> <p>“Do not fall for it. Friend did and has lost around $700. They just keep taking from your bank. Can't stop it unless you email them and threaten with lawyers.”</p> <p>“Unfortunately I was one of those people who thought it was real,” another woman said.</p> <p>Some believe the advertisement is so fake it's the consumers fault that they fell for it in the first place.</p> <p>“Phishing messages are designed to look genuine, and often copy the format used by the organisation the scammer is pretending to represent, including their branding and logo,” ACCC's Scamwatch website said.</p> <p><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p>

Money & Banking

Adele buys Sylvester Stallone’s home at bargain price

<p dir="ltr">Pop superstar Adele has expanded her property portfolio once again, after she<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.nine.com.au/property/news/adele-buys-sylvester-stallone-beverly-hills-mansion-for-80-million-dollars/0df9aa49-c3bd-45a3-9d4f-a08992d2093f" target="_blank">dropped $80.1 million</a><span> </span>on the deluxe mansion of<span> </span><em>Rocky</em><span> </span>star Sylvester Stallone.</p> <p dir="ltr">The sprawling Mediterranean-style estate - located in Beverly Hills - has eight bedrooms, 12 bathrooms, and sits on a 14,164-square metre block.</p> <p dir="ltr">The home boasts a variety of luxe features, including a two-storey foyer, infinity pool, movie theatre, gym, and a two-storey, two-bedroom guest house.</p> <p dir="ltr">The listing also notes that the home comes with its own putting green, cigar room, custom bar, and a master bedroom featuring its own dual bath, sauna and steam room.</p> <p dir="ltr">Though Adele has previously told<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.vogue.co.uk/arts-and-lifestyle/article/adele-british-vogue-interview" target="_blank"><em>British Vogue</em></a><span> </span>she made the move to LA because she couldn’t afford London’s house prices and an $80 million price tag sounds quite steep, the singer actually scored herself quite a good deal.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The kind of house I have in LA I could never afford in London. Ever,” she said at the time.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I looked at houses. It’s like hundreds of millions of pounds. I don’t have that much money at all. I’d throw up.”</p> <p dir="ltr">One LA property expert even told<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.tmz.com/2022/01/01/adele-buying-sylvester-stallone-estate-house-steal-rocky/" target="_blank"><em>TMZ</em></a><span> </span>that the purchase was an “outright steal”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Stallone first listed the home for an eye-watering $152 million in January 2021, as reported by<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/adele-buys-sylvester-stallones-mediterranean-style-beverly-hills-mansion" target="_blank"><em>Architectural Digest</em></a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">After receiving little interest, the 75-year-old dropped the price to $117.5 million in May, before Adele snapped it up with a discount of almost 50 percent this year.</p> <p dir="ltr">Her latest purchase comes as her fourth in LA within the last five years.</p> <p dir="ltr">The<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/property/real-estate/see-inside-adele-s-41-5-million-property-portfolio" target="_blank">previous three LA pads</a><span> </span>cost Adele between $9.5 and $10.5 million each, and her latest acquisition brings her total spending to $110 million.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: @adele (Instagram) / Getty Images, Realtor</em></p>

Real Estate

“MOST LUXURIOUS” Aldi Christmas range announced at bargain prices

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">ALDI Australia is set to release a new, deluxe Christmas range of 21 premium items at affordable prices.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Curated Collection will launch on October 27 and includes a variety of festive products for Christmas lunches, treats, and gifts.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">According to the supermarket giant, the range will be sourced from producers in Australia and around the world, and is set to be the most premium collection of festive products ALDI has sold in Australia.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“We’re very proud to be releasing our most luxurious Christmas range, allowing more Australians to treat themselves and gift to their friends and family for a premium festive experience this year,” ALDI Shopping Expert Kylie Warnke said.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844960/aldi-xmas1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/d4b1495ab47447679295c72399024bcb" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“These products were carefully developed and curated in partnership with Aussie suppliers and those abroad, bringing together decadent flavours at the highest quality available so shoppers can be confident when picking out their holiday gifts and menus.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">See the full range here:</span></p> <p><strong>Decadent Christmas puddings</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">An iconic Christmas dish, the holiday wouldn’t be complete without pudding. The new range offers two to choose from:</span></p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Luxury 10-month Vintage Pudding - $14.99</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Luxury 30-month Matured Christmas Pudding - $19.99</span></li> </ul> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844961/aldi-xmas2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/8aebdd48b8c74f7bb8e031d8af7bbe94" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Vintage Pudding has been matured in the NSW Hunter Region and also comes as a gluten-free version, so everyone can enjoy a slice.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Matured Pudding hails from the UK, containing a blend of rum, ruby port, and a French Armagnac finish.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Our 30-month matured pudding is definitely something extra decadent for our shoppers,” Kylie </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://7news.com.au/lifestyle/food/aldi-supermarket-launches-most-luxurious-christmas-range-ever-with-prices-starting-at-just-399-c-4278558" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">said</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“We haven’t seen anything of this quality at this price point in Australia, and it really is the hero of this range.”</span></p> <p><strong>Cakes galore</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">On top of puddings, the Curated Collection includes a selection of fruit and iced cakes.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Christmas cakes really are a festive centerpiece for Christmas BBQs or a ‘wow’ gift for family and friends,” Kylie said.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844962/aldi-xmas3.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/8a4665b5f7654adb82142933db89f422" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The range includes:</span></p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">200g Christmas Fruit Cake - $3.99</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">800g Christmas Fruit Cake - $10.99</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">900g Iced Christmas Cake - $16.99</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Christmas Cake Selection 9-pack - $16.99</span></li> </ul> <p><strong>Sweet treats</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Whether you’re looking for a Christmas gift or a festive treat for guests to nibble on, ALDI’s range of caramels, fudges, nougat, and honeycomb will be a crowd-pleaser.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The milk and dark chocolate salted caramels are sourced from Ireland, while the variety of “irresistible” fudges hail from Yorkshire, in the UK. The five different flavours of fudge include butter, clotted cream, gingerbread, salted caramel, and Canadian maple.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844963/aldi-xmas4.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/ec0402151b324c52986960dc79934ec2" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“These are the perfect treat for sharing with loved ones or nibbling on during the festive period,” Kylie said. “They are also made to the perfect bite size so would be kid-friendly.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As for the chewy honeycomb, the range includes three varieties which are hand-dipped in milk chocolate.</span></p> <p><strong>Edible gifts</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If sweet goodies won’t satisfy, ALDI offers a range of savoury present ideas for the foodies in your life.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The range includes a variety of premium olive oils, finishing vinegar, and aromatic dukkahs, priced between $3.99 and $7.99.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844964/aldi-xmas5.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/56be36a57dc4442b90a83874269f14d3" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Not only are these products perfect for dressing those Summer salads or to roast veggies or use in marinades, they make for thoughtful gifts,” Kylie said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Presented in stylish packaging, the range also features specialty coffee beans ($14.99), Wagyu biltong ($19.99), mixed nuts ($12.99), and sweet crispbreads ($5.99).</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Images: Supplied</span></em></p>

Food & Wine

Bargain Italian homes sell for under $2

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Houses in Italy are selling for as little as one euro, thanks to a new initiative started by several Italian municipalities.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The 1 Euro House Project hopes to revitalise particular areas of the country and stem the rate of residents moving away.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sambuca di Sicilia, a municipality in the region of Sicily, has seen incredible success from the initiative, with approximately 16 dwellings being purchased since the scheme was announced in 2019.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CODg8wLNIqu/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CODg8wLNIqu/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Bell’Italia (@bellitalia_magazine)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Since then, Sambuca has attracted reporters and foreign buyers looking for a bargain home.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Though the reasons behind Sambuca’s huge popularity in comparison to other unpopulated towns involved in the scheme are unknown, the area has hopes to replicate its initial success.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A second batch of abandoned homes have been put on the market for a symbolic two euros (AUD $3.20).</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CKG2wZbslyR/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CKG2wZbslyR/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Sambuca di Sicilia (@sambucadisicilia)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Since the 2019 scheme, local authorities have continued to receive requests from foreigners interested in buying a bargain property. In response to the continued interest, they have decided to sell about 20 abandoned buildings, many of which are adjacent houses, giving buyers an opportunity to buy more than one and knock them through.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The chosen properties are all within the old “Saracen” neighbourhood, which were abandoned after a catastrophic earthquake devastated the area in 1968.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CQbEoqpsUP8/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CQbEoqpsUP8/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Sambuca di Sicilia (@sambucadisicilia)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The homes will be going to auction at a starting price of two euros and will be sold to the highest bidder.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Most of the homes are in need of repairs, while others are still filled with forgotten items and broken furniture.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Any who are interested in partaking can complete and submit an application - available from the </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.comune.sambucadisicilia.ag.it/Case%20a%202%20Euro/Index.htm" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">town’s website</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> - until November 5, with the public auction likely to take place several weeks later.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In 2019, the homes sold for prices ranging from one euro to </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">€</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">25,000 (approximately $40,000 AUD).</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">However, most went for somewhere between </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">€5000 and €10,000 (AUD $8000 to $16,000).</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: irusya_busya / Instagram</span></em></p>

International Travel

Four ways to snap up a bargain online

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Picking up a bargain buy is always an enjoyable moment, whether it’s in a physical store or while shopping online.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Here are four tips to help you become a savvy online shopper and save some cash.</span></p> <p><strong>1. Take advantage of the algorithm</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Though brands often target customers with ads relating to their most recent searches to tempt them into making a purchase, you can use this to your advantage.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you’re looking for a particular product, search for it and monitor how the price changes in ads so you can nab it when the time (and price) is right.</span></p> <p><strong>2. Look for second-hand first</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Online shopping makes it easier to find pre-loved items that match what you’re looking for - without a hefty price tag.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you have an idea of the item you want - whether that’s a particular garment, device, or model - search second-hand online sales platforms such as Facebook Marketplace, Depop, or Gumtree to ensure you aren’t missing out on a deal.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When buying second-hand, always check the condition and keep any receipts.</span></p> <p><strong>3. Compare and save</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Just as online shopping makes it easier to find pre-loved items, comparing prices across websites is just as straightforward. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As well as comparing the price of a garment or device between retailers, search engines such as </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://compareclub.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Compare Club</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.paylessdeal.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">PayLessDeal</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, and </span><a rel="noopener" href="http://www.shopmania.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">ShopMania</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> can help you find the cheapest version in seconds.</span></p> <p><strong>4. Look out for e-coupons</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When you reach the virtual checkout, adding in a discount code could help you nab free shipping or a general discount.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Many of these codes can be found on a brand’s social media accounts or website, or promoted by influencers on their individual social media accounts.</span></p>

Money & Banking

Unbelievable deal: ALDI shopper scores lamb roast for under $1

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">An ALDI customer has shared how she bought a lamb roast for just 83c and the unexpected reason why.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Posting the story on the </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1034012533313136"><span style="font-weight: 400;">ALDI Mums</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Facebook page, Monique said she was excited to pick up the dinner favourite at her local ALDI.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The half leg of lamb was still four weeks out from its ‘best before’ date, so it wasn’t reduced because it was close to expiring.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Upon closer inspection, the ALDI label shows that it had been incorrectly weighted at 68g.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Seasoned ALDI shoppers estimate that a similar leg would weigh anywhere from 1.5kg to 2kg, with the error pricing it at well under 100g.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I was so excited about my bargain find today I knew you mums would appreciate it!” Monique wrote on the page.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I paid a whole 83c for this lamb roast today as it was marked and weighed wrong!”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Monique said she even checked if the price was right with the checkout worker.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I was like so this is marked 83c, does that mean I get it for 83c? He went and spoke to his manager and they were like ‘Yeah we can’t charge you any more for it’.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Since it even scanned at 83c, Monique said, “I was like, ‘Yes! Get in my basket!’”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Fellow shoppers were amazed by her good luck.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Lucky you, enjoy! Just about need a bank loan to buy any cuts of lamb these days!” one said.</span></p>

Food & Wine

Kmart version of $170 winter item sends shoppers into a frenzy

<p>Budget conscious fashion lovers have discovered a puffer jacket that is four times cheaper than a popular Australian brand.</p> <p>Instagram page Kmart Insiders shared a light blue winter coat, that retails for $40 at Kmart, alongside the $169 Decjuba version.</p> <p>Followers were taken aback as to how similar the two items really were, praising Kmart for offering a more affordable version.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/COTwMkEnG94/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/COTwMkEnG94/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by KMART OUTFIT IDEAS (@kmartinsider)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>“Wow! What a comparison. These are spot on,” one person commented.</p> <p>“Kmart you did it again. Love it,” someone else said.</p> <p>Others pointed out some brands “are so expensive,” adding the large price tag was “unnecessary”.</p> <p>The discount department store recently revealed a line of puffer jackets as part of its autumn/winter '21 collection ranging from $20 for kids sizes to $49 for a longline women's version.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CN4HyCEnZ_1/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CN4HyCEnZ_1/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Amys Fashion Finds (@amys.fashionfinds)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>It is also the first ever clothing item from Kmart to be made from 100 per cent recycled polyester.</p> <p>“We’re pretty excited with this season’s launch because it has got a lot of sustainability product through the mix of our offer,” Natasha Smith, Kmart’s Divisional Merchandise Manager, told news.com.au previously.</p> <p>“In particular one of our longline puffers has got 100 per cent recycled poly content from reclaimed material.”</p> <p>The jackets have proven to be incredibly popular with shoppers pointing out it was already "sold out online".</p> <p>Shoppers have taken to Instagram to share snaps of themselves donning the jackets, with one woman writing: “I’m glad there are options for me to keep warm but stay stylish.”</p>

Money & Banking

Coles drops price on Christmas delicacy

<p>Coles is selling lobster for half price this Christmas after buying excess to help out fishermen who had their stock rejected by China.</p> <p>The supermarket giant is selling its Western Australian Rock Lobsters for just $20 - matching the price at Woolworths - which will be available in the deli section of its stores nationwide.</p> <p>Coles purchased 29 times the amount of lobsters it did last year, in what Coles General Manager for Bakery, Deli and Seafood Andy Mossop said was a win for the industry and consumers.</p> <p>He said the company was preparing for its busiest week of the year for seafood sales, with customers purchasing over 70 per cent more in December compared to other months.</p> <p>“Coles is committed to supporting local producers and providing great value for customers,” Mr Mossop said.</p> <p>“This is a fantastic example of how we have been able to act quickly to support our suppliers with an income stream during a very challenging time while also benefiting our customers at the checkout.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7839207/shutterstock_795373393-1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/7b9d8ad50a4e4510bcbe77819e7603d0" /></p> <p>”We are delighted to be able to offer premium quality and sustainable Australian seafood, like WA Rock Lobsters, at exceptional prices and help customers enjoy a luxury Christmas staple for less this year.”</p> <p>Woolworths also made an announcement saying they will drop the price of lobsters to $20.</p> <p>Western Rock Lobster Council CEO Matt Taylor said the market closures in China meant there was an increased supply of the “premium” product for domestic markets.</p> <p>“Partnering with national retailers to boost local consumption will play an important role in the viability of fishing businesses and their regional communities,” he said.</p> <p>Marine Stewardship Council Program Director of Oceania Anne Gabriel said Coles has helped out WA fishing companies immensely this Christmas.</p> <p>“With a third of global fish populations overfished, choosing sustainable seafood with the blue fish tick supports livelihoods, communities and helps protect one of the last major food sources truly from the wild,” she said.</p> <p>“When you see the MSC blue fish tick label on Aussie lobster at your local Coles deli counter, you can feel good that your purchase is not only good for your pocket, but for the ocean and those that depend on it too.”</p>

Food & Wine

Woman issues warning after getting more than she bargained for in her Coles Caesar Salad

<p>An Australian woman has made a revolting discovery in her Caesar salad from Coles.</p> <p>Simone Solodchuck-Boston made a post to the Coles Facebook page outlining that she had bought two of the pre-made Coles Caesar salads and was mid-bite when she made an unfortunate discovery.</p> <p>“After enjoying most of one I noticed something strange hanging off my fork - turns out it was a slug,” she wrote.</p> <p>“The slug had been squashed and inadvertently been mixed through the salad so not sure how much I may have eaten,” she wrote to Coles.</p> <p>Solodchuck-Boston said that she was making the post public, as she had tried to alert those in store to what she had found but was hit with a roadblock.</p> <p>“I called Coles to let them know that maybe they should pull the rest off the shelf as slugs can contain a pretty nasty bacteria and parasites,” she wrote.</p> <p> “I was told they couldn't find the form they needed to fill out to take them off the shelf at the moment and they can't pull them off the shelf with out it.”</p> <p>Some commenters on the post saw the funny side to the matter.</p> <p>“On the other hand nothing says fresh like slugs still being in the salad,” one wrote.</p> <p><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fcoles%2Fposts%2F2669758893088109&width=500" width="500" height="804" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></p> <p>“Includes fork... apparently includes slugs too!” another commenter wrote.</p> <p>In a response to the post, Coles said that it was “disappointed to see this”.</p> <p>“We're sorry for the poor experience,” a Coles spokesperson wrote.</p> <p>Coles also spoke to Coles also spoke to<span> </span><em><a rel="noopener" href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/mans-nasty-find-in-his-coles-caesar-salad-052807886.html" target="_blank">Yahoo News Australia</a><span> </span></em>about the incident, saying that the customer was contacted and the supermarket has followed up with the supplier of the Caesar salads to investigate the matter.</p> <p>“Coles takes the quality of all our products seriously,” the statement said.</p> <p>“As always we encourage customers to return any item, they’re not 100% happy with to their nearest store for a full refund or replacement.”</p>

Food & Wine

Big W’s $20 bargain is perfect for every traveller

<p>For every keen traveller, there is an understanding some sacrifices have to be made including choosing comfort over style. </p> <p>Thankfully there are money saving finds out there than can give any intrepid traveller the opportunity to be comfortable and stylish. </p> <p>Those who are a fan of memory foam cushions and mattresses will find solace in the budget retailer’s $20 pair of slip-on trainers that are very much the same, except their for your feet. </p> <p>The shoes have a padded design, textured sole and estacised strapping to promise a snug fit. </p> <p>The shoes are just one of many goodies available for anyone looking to travel in style. </p> <p>Big W has brought out the big guns to battle for every traveller;s dollar by expanding their travel range to include packing cubes that are compatible, durable and great sized. </p> <p>Kmart has a similar item that goes for $9 a pop if you’re looking for a more affordable alternative - however reviews have noted the price difference does mean a quality change. </p> <p>Big W also has a number of globalite products for under $27. </p> <p>Scroll through the gallery above to see some of BIG W’s travel goodies.</p>

Retirement Life

"Such a bargain!" The $25 Kmart dress shoppers are raving about

<div> <div class="replay"> <div class="reply_body body linkify"> <div class="reply_body"> <div class="body_text "> <p>Spring is less than a month away – and shoppers are getting in the zone with a special item from Kmart to update their wardrobe.</p> <p>The $25 Kmart long sleeve maxi dress has made waves among fashion bloggers on Instagram, as the piece received praise for its fashionable print and cut.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BzwQCpAjg-4/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BzwQCpAjg-4/" target="_blank">A post shared by Kmart Australia (@kmartaus)</a> on Jul 10, 2019 at 4:01pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>“It’s a cute dress for $25,” one commented.</p> <p>“It would suit anybody. It’s perfect for layering up in the cooler months,” another wrote.</p> <p>“Such a versatile dress especially moving into spring,” a shopper added.</p> <p>“Such a bargain!! Can see this being such a popular dress for spring,” someone praised.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bz99MLqHHfu/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bz99MLqHHfu/" target="_blank">A post shared by Bec McDonnell (@thebargainstyler_)</a> on Jul 15, 2019 at 11:45pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bz5Ara3H9Om/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bz5Ara3H9Om/" target="_blank">A post shared by Briony Wilson (@brionysworld)</a> on Jul 14, 2019 at 1:39am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bzt_zk-nf6k/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bzt_zk-nf6k/" target="_blank">A post shared by It’s just Beth (@what_beth_wore)</a> on Jul 9, 2019 at 7:00pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The floral print dress, available in red and navy, is made with polyester and comes with a high-low hem and a tie waist. It is a part of the department store’s new season collection.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Beauty & Style

Crazy with excitement: The ALDI deal people are losing it over

<p>ALDI has announced its newest Special Buys deal and it’s due to hit the shelves next week. The announcement has sent ALDI fans into a frenzy, as fans are able to secure a huge French door fridge for under $1,000.</p> <p>For $999, fans are able to secure the Stirling French door fridge, which is 1800cm high, 800cm wide and 665 cm deep. The fridge can hold up to 473 litres.</p> <p>ALDI let fans know about the special via a Facebook video where Mel, a local café owner, highlights the benefits of the fridge.</p> <p><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FALDI.Australia%2Fvideos%2F1106145389583056%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="455" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p> <p>According to Mel, the fridge has “loads of door storage, LED lighting and adjustable glass shelves".</p> <p>“It also has a humidity and temperature-controlled fresh zone to keep fruit and vegies fresher for longer,” she said.</p> <p>The fridge has the option to be set to eco mode to save electricity, holiday mode for when you’re away and super freezing mode to freeze food fast.</p> <p>In order to make things easier for fans, ALDI has made the purchase of this fridge easier as all you need to do is secure a purchase pack, which are available from your local ALDI store assistant.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B0k0utBhrVc/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B0k0utBhrVc/" target="_blank">Fellow Aldi Lovers... get ready for something really exciting!! 🙌🏻 Next Wednesday 7 August brings this gorgeous French door fridge on sale. Not excited yet? Keep reading. You won’t find the fridges stacked up in the middle aisles. Because purchasing this fridge means you’ll get it delivered to your home. For FREE. Yes you read that right. A brand new way of purchasing those large Aldi special buys. Check out the video for some more information. What do we think? ⭐️⭐️ #aldiloversau #aldiaustralia #aldispecialbuys #aldicatalogue #aldifridge #aldidelivery</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/aldiloversau/" target="_blank"> Tammy - Aldi Lovers Australia</a> (@aldiloversau) on Jul 31, 2019 at 2:02am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>You simply walk out with a plastic packet of brochures and a receipt for your fridge.</p> <p>However, fans weren’t happy with this as this means they’re unable to inspect the item before purchasing.</p> <p>“Personally, I wouldn’t purchase a large item without viewing it first,” one person wrote.</p> <p>Fans were still excited about the new item being available.</p> <p>“Quick, small and effective, well done on delivery to customers,” one woman said.</p> <p>“Well now I want a new fridge despite not needing one at all,” another person said.</p> <p>Others warned happy buyers to be careful.</p> <p>“Be careful with what you buy, usually when products such as this fridge (go on sale) they won’t last long,” one woman warned, citing personal experience.</p>

Money & Banking

Duty-free shopping: The do's and don'ts for nabbing a bargain

<p><span>When you’re lounging around at the airport waiting for the boarding gate to open, it can be tempting to look around the brightly lit shops and pick up some duty-free goods. While you may find great bargains, the cost of some items at these stores can be a lot more expensive than local retailers. If you’re not paying attention, you may end up paying up to twice the recommended retail prices.</span></p> <p><span>Here are the things you should get at the duty-free to save money, as well as the shopping traps you should avoid.</span></p> <p><strong><span>What you should buy</span></strong></p> <p><span>You could save a great deal when buying liquor, cigars and tobacco products at the airport. According to a review by <a href="https://www.escape.com.au/travel-advice/duty-free-is-it-really-worth-it/news-story/6212a769799001a67abb6813d7ca95e8"><em>finder.com.au</em></a>, spirits such as Absolut vodka and Johnnie Walker Red whiskey were 33 per cent cheaper. The price gaps can be more significant if you’re travelling to a country where alcoholic drinks or cigarettes are more expensive due to high taxes – so stock up on the way to avoid spending a fortune later. </span></p> <p><span>Keep in mind the restrictions in place for alcohol purchases – in Australia the limit is 2.25 litres. </span></p> <p><span>Some cosmetics, electronic goods and luxury goods – such as perfumes, bags or sunglasses – can also be cheaper, depending on price variations. A <a href="https://www.choice.com.au/travel/on-holidays/duty-free/articles/duty-free-shopping-traps">2018 comparison by CHOICE</a> found that iPhone X Silver 256GB was cheaper at Sydney Airport’s Heinemann duty-free shop than at Apple Store, while Canon IXUS 190 Digital Camera was more affordable at Harvey Norman. Andy Kollmorgen of the consumer group advised travellers to “shop around” and “do your research”.</span></p> <p><strong><span>What you shouldn’t buy</span></strong></p> <p><span>In general, confectionery and snacks are a no-go – <em>finder.com.au</em> discovered that Tim Tams were priced 72 per cent higher than in supermarkets. It can indeed be hard to resist getting the special chocolate blocks that you can’t find in your neighbourhood Woolies, but common snacks should be purchased out of the airport.</span></p>

Retirement Income

Why seeing private specialists often costs more than you bargained for

<p>Around <a href="http://www.apra.gov.au/Pages/phiac-redirect.aspx">half of Australians have</a> private health insurance. Most of us know that if we need to see a private specialist, we may face some out-of-pocket fees between what the doctor charges and the rebate we receive from Medicare and, if we’re having a procedure or operation, our private health fund.</p> <p>But why is it so difficult to find out exactly how much it’s going to cost to have that suspicious mole removed or to be admitted to hospital for that colonoscopy or hip replacement?</p> <p>Outside of public hospitals, most clinical health services are essentially private markets. The Commonwealth government, through Medicare, provides a variety of subsidies to reduce the cost burden on patients but does not regulate prices. Doctors can charge what they like – or what the market will bear.</p> <p>Patients can learn their local GP’s fees relatively quickly and make informed choices about whether to switch practices. Our <a href="https://www.melbourneinstitute.com/downloads/working_paper_series/wp2013n23.pdf">recent research</a> suggests GP practices facing strong local competition were more likely to keep their prices low.</p> <p>But specialist prices are more obscure. Patients often rely on their GP to make the choice of specialist for them through the referral process, with little or no discussion of prices. And patients see specialists less frequently than GPs, so they don’t have the opportunity to learn about prices through repeated use.</p> <p>There is a simple way of increasing price transparency so we all know how much services cost at alternative providers: make this a requirement for all specialists and publish the data on a government website such as the <a href="http://www.myhospitals.gov.au/">My Hospitals</a> portal.</p> <p><strong>Specialist consultations</strong></p> <p>Prices for specialists are high, with only <a href="http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/34A89144DB4185EDCA257BF0001AFE29/%24File/MBS%20Statistics%20Financial%20Year%202014-15%20external%2020150714.pdf">around 30%</a> of consultations bulk-billed and an average out-of-pocket cost of A$65.73 (for those not bulk-billed).</p> <p>The size of out-of-pocket costs may be influenced by the <a href="http://www.amawa.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/AMA-Fees-List-Nov-15.pdf">list of recommended fees</a>published annually by the Australian Medical Association. The AMA-listed fee for initial specialist consultations is A$166, almost twice the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) fee of A$85.55.</p> <p>For initial consultations with consultants, the listed fee is A$315, more than twice the MBS schedule fee of A$150.90.</p> <p><a href="http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/hec.3317/epdf">Recently published research</a> by health economists at the University of Technology Sydney confirms that many specialists practise “price discrimination” – they charge higher prices to patients who can afford to pay more. This is often seen as an indicator of a lack of competition in an industry.</p> <p>Specialists are less price-competitive because of the high barriers to entry into these professions. This leads to long waiting lists for consultations as well as high prices.</p> <p><a href="https://www.hwa.gov.au/sites/uploads/HW2025_V3_FinalReport20121109.pdf">Health Workforce Australia</a> has identified psychiatry, obstetrics and gynaecology among important specialities with a current shortage that are likely to be under-supplied in the future. Causes include a lack of specialist training places, long training programs and falling working hours.</p> <p><strong>Procedures and surgery</strong></p> <p>Most patients who have private in-hospital elective procedures have health insurance that pays their hospital costs, subject to an excess on the insurance policy. But doctors’ fees are more complicated.</p> <p>Doctors’ fees for such procedures are funded by Medicare with a “gap” payment, often reimbursed by private health insurance. Medicare will fund 75% of the “schedule fee”, with private health insurance usually funding the other 25%.</p> <p>But Medicare <a href="http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/34A89144DB4185EDCA257BF0001AFE29/%24File/MBS%20Statistics%20Financial%20Year%202014-15%20external%2020150714.pdf">data shows</a> only 13% of anaesthetics services and 47% of operations services (mainly the surgeons’ fees) are charged at the schedule fee.</p> <p>This leads to an average patient contribution of A$76 for operations and A$126 for anaesthetics. This may be funded by private health in some cases, but not all. Often this will depend on the agreements reached between private health insurance companies, doctors and private hospitals.</p> <p>Patients may be left in the dark about their final out-of-pocket costs until months after any private hospital procedure. These delays are caused by the fragmentation of the billing process: an operation or procedure often involves several doctors, such as a surgeon, anaesthetist, pathologists and radiologists.</p> <p><strong>So what’s the solution?</strong></p> <p>Health insurer Bupa has introduced <a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/news/bupa-offers-fixed-fee-surgery-as-uk-profits-take-turn-for-the-worse-8531854.html">fixed-price surgery</a> in the United Kingdom to reduce the “bill shock” associated with private elective procedures. Such a development would be welcome in Australia.</p> <p>But the motivation is lower here due to the high take-up of private health insurance. We rely on insurance companies to do the bargaining with hospitals and doctors for us.</p> <p>Price-transparency regulation has a lot of potential to reduce the hip-pocket impact on Australian patients. Specialists should be forced to publish a list of their fees online, which GPs can use, together with patients, when making referral decisions. This should put pressure on specialists to think twice about increasing their fees.</p> <p>Liberal MP Angus Taylor, now assistant minister for cities and digital transformation, <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-opinion/angus-taylor-time-to-empower-patients-in-healthcare-20151029-gkmiwg.html">has called for</a> a “My Doctor” website to provide comparative quality information about doctors. This is a good idea and a natural extension of existing policies. If it does eventuate, publishing prices should be a key component of the comparative information.</p> <p>Price transparency is no panacea but should be an important component of ensuring taxpayers and patients get good value for money out of the health system.</p> <p>In the meantime, if you’re seeing a specialist or undergoing a procedure, ask questions about the cost of your care, especially referrals to specialists and private hospitals. You’re paying for a service from a private company and should be able to weigh the perceived benefits against the price before making an informed purchase.</p> <p><em>Written by Peter Sivey. Republished with permission of </em><a href="https://theconversation.com/how-much-seeing-private-specialists-often-costs-more-than-you-bargained-for-53445"><em>The Conversation</em></a><em>.</em></p>

Body

ALDI vs Kmart: The stores battle it out for the best bed linen bargains

<p>If you’re looking to stock up on bedsheets and towels, now is the ideal time to do it as two of the biggest bargain retailers are going up against each other with their latest offers.</p> <p>ALDI is a top contender after dropping its latest Special Buys catalogue, which includes organic cotton sheet sets with a 375 thread count for $60 in a range of colours, including white, blue and sand.</p> <p>As a part of its Special Buys, ALDI will also be selling organic cotton bath towels for $10 and has even branched out into pyjamas, with a men and women’s set for $17 and $20 respectively.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Byw-3C1gzm3/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Byw-3C1gzm3/" target="_blank">Aldi catalogue flip through for Wednesday 19 June ⭐️⭐️ #aldicatalogue #aldiloversau #aldispecialbuys #aldiaustralia #catalogue #aldicatalogue</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/aldiloversau/" target="_blank"> Tammy - Aldi Lovers Australia</a> (@aldiloversau) on Jun 16, 2019 at 2:21am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>This is a huge difference when compared to luxury linen specialists Sheridan, which stocks organic cotton sheet sets with a 400 thread count for $350, although they have recently been marked down to $179.</p> <p>Kmart conveniently announced its own linen deal in its weekly newsletter to customers on the same day as ALDI dropped its latest Special Buys catalogue.</p> <p>Kmart promised “bedtime bliss” to its customers with its “comfiest bed linen”.</p> <p>It is offering queen size bamboo cotton sheet sets with a 300 thread count at the low price of $50 in a range of colours.</p> <p>It has got ALDI beat with the price of its cotton towels too, lowering them to $9.</p> <p>However, if you’re shopping around for sheets and are impressed by a higher thread count, Target is offering 1,000 thread count cotton and polyester sheets for $99 for a queen sized bed.</p>

Money & Banking

The $35 Kmart fashion bargain that will keep you warm and cosy this winter

<p>Winter has kicked off with a very chilly start! Staying warm this time of year can be a tricky task, especially when the clothing you’re wearing doesn’t shield the cold as well as you’d like, or keep the wind chill at bay.</p> <p>But good news! Kmart has released a bargain puffer jacket that’s making the sudden cold snap somewhat bearable.</p> <p>For $35, you’re able to stay warm and look stylish as you do so. It’s a quilted nylon jacket that has a funnel collar, elasticated sleeves and ample pocket space.</p> <p>The puffer jacket also offers a fleece lining that’ll work hard to keep the chill out so you can relax or adventure around your neighbourhood.</p> <p>It is available in the men's section and comes in two colours, which are black and khaki – so you can buy one for you and one for your partner. </p> <p><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7827381/kmart-puffer.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/d66bbae37c38447ca789c627ac7a24bb" /></p> <p>The price point is one of the more attractive features of this puffer jacket, as other designer jackets can set you back between $130 to $400. </p> <p>After a long day of keeping the cold out, you’ll be pleased to know that this jacket is also machine washable, according to instructions that you can find on the care label.</p> <p>As this puffer jacket is a steal, it’s selling out quickly with Kmart stores across Australia being low in stock of this item.</p> <p>So, get in quick to make sure you don’t miss out!</p>

Money & Banking

Get ready: ALDI's craziest sale of the year returns

<p> </p> <p>Everyone loves a good bargain and ALDI’s annual snow gear Special Buys sale is not an exception – people all over Australia go crazy to get their hands on the best deal.</p> <p>Launching in 2008, the ski sale has proven to be the German supermarket’s biggest Special Buys event of the year.</p> <p>This year, however, fans better come prepared for the event as it’s supposed to be best snow gear sale yet for 2019.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bi-h_h6ACje/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bi-h_h6ACje/" target="_blank">A post shared by Amanda Roberts (@mandy_snapz)</a> on May 19, 2018 at 4:13pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The next event, however, falls on the date of our federal election – Saturday, May 18.</p> <p>The sale has caused chaos in the past before, attracting thousands of customers all over the country who are eager to get their hands on affordable snow gear.</p> <p>Adult ski jackets and pants retailed for less than $70 last year – a steep fall from the pricey cost of other competitors who have proven to find it difficult to compete with ALDI’s cheap prices.</p> <p>Just some of the offers expected to hit shelves include snow jackets, goggles, boots, under-layers and other items that will be revealed on the big day.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BUSw8h2luoe/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BUSw8h2luoe/" target="_blank">A post shared by Debbie Tsang (@debbdesign)</a> on May 19, 2017 at 4:58pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The ski and snow retail sector in Australia is estimated to be worth over $2 billion a year and the ALDI annual sale has proven to be a dominant contender.</p> <p>The consumer following for the anticipated yearly bargain sale has become so big the retail giant has introduced a competition that gives customers the chance to win one of 10 Perisher weekend packages, which covers accommodation, ski lift passes, lessons and ski or snowboard hire.</p>

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