Cryptocurrencies and other digital assets have enjoyed an astonishing rise into mainstream consciousness in recent years. Despite all the hype – perhaps partly because of it – investing in them can still expose us to serious risks. Last year, Australians lost A$2.74 billion to scams. Investment scams topped the list of ways we were fleeced,…
This week a Senate inquiry will look at the federal government’s controversial legislation to cap international student numbers in Australia from next year. University-commissioned research predicts caps will cause a significant loss of revenue and jobs, including flow-on effects on the broader economy. But my new report for the ANU’s Migration Hub, argues there are…
A lot has happened to the economy since COVID struck, and reading the economic tea leaves has become more difficult. Many of the gains for many Australians in 2020 and 2021 were artificial and didn’t last. The COVID Supplement temporarily doubled JobSeeker, for example. JobKeeper paid workers what their employers could not. As these measures…
The housing shortage in Melbourne (and more broadly – across Victoria) is a multifaceted issue driven by several interrelated factors. Understanding these causes is crucial for developing effective strategies to address the shortage and improve housing availability and affordability. 1. Rapid Population Growth Victoria and Melbourne in particular have experienced significant population growth over the…
Not a day goes by without a headline about a victim being scammed and losing money. We are constantly warned about new scams and staying safe from cybercriminals. Scamwatch has no shortage of resources, too. So why are people still getting scammed, and sometimes spectacularly so? Scammers use sophisticated psychological techniques. They exploit our deepest…
Australia is now in the same league as Lithuania, Estonia and Hungary when it comes to cutting real pay, according to a new OECD report. These are the only countries where cuts in real pay – pay adjusted for inflation – have been more severe for low-paid workers than those on higher salaries. The OECD’s…
Did you know that the way our homes are maintained, decorated, and designed can have a significant impact on our mood? This is particularly true for sufferers of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or many other mental health problems, for whom negative thoughts could be triggered by spaces that are not conducive to a comfortable, tranquil,…
Melbourne, a vibrant and culturally rich city, is a treasure trove of museums catering to various interests. The best museums in Melbourne are not just about displaying artifacts but are immersive experiences that tell captivating stories, provoke thought, and spark creativity. “As a city that attracts people from all over the world, Melbourne’s cultural landscape…
It feels like we are living in busy times. According to the OECD Better Life Index, 12.5% of Australians report working at least 50 hours a week, higher than the OECD average. Many Australians are also working more than one job to buffer against cost-of-living pressures. Psychology has long been interested in our goals –…
Our homes are our havens. Whether we own property or rent, our homes are often the most valuable asset we own, so naturally, we want to know how to protect them. Home insurance is a great way to safeguard ourselves against the unknown. But when the cost of living is so high, how do we…
