Cheques are being phased-out this year by many banks, including First Option. If you currently write cheques, now is a good time to look into how electronic tools like PayID, Osko and PayTo will replace cheques from 1 July, 2023.  Cheques (or checks if you’re American) have been a key part of how many people do their banking for a long time, in fact a VERY long time. But changes globally now look likely to bring about the end of cheques as …

Experienced financial planner, James Gerrard, gives us his top tips on household budgeting.  Manage your cash better  Money left over each month which is not needed for an investment plan should be transferred from your everyday bank account into a bonus interest savings account so that it accrues a higher level of interest. This is particularly useful if you will still need to access the money again in the near future, such as to put together a deposit on a …

As you have probably seen in the media over the past week, the Board of the Reserve Bank announced their decision on 7 February 2023 to increase Australia’s interest rates by another 0.25%; an increase almost immediately passed on to customers by the big banks.  But the Board of First Option Bank has decided NOT to increase our lending rates.  We know that many of our members are adapting to higher prices, however with the new financial squeeze and as …

Our brand new Visa debit and credit cards are now in stock, and even if you haven’t yet got a new-look card… you will see the updated card designs in Apple and Google Wallet apps.

Interior stylist Emma Blomfield provides her top five tips to make your house feel like a home without breaking the bank. Careful planning allows you to add character and cosiness to your space and keeps you on track budget wise.  1 – REFRESH YOUR WALL PAINT  If you’re happy with the bones of your home but you’ve grown tired of your colour scheme think about a fresh coat of paint for your walls, trims and doors. You’ll be surprised how …

This overnight Spring hike through Victoria’s alpine region finishes with a glass of Tempranillo and slow cooked Moroccan lamb. The sky is darkly bruised, the breeze stiff. Without a guide, we forge along a faint track on the roof of Victoria in Australia’s southern alpine region, completely encased by mountains. The two-way radio strapped to my pack crackles briefly and, aside from the odd marker pole reassuring us we’re on track, there’s no sign of civilisation. I think to myself, …

Be careful in any interaction you did not initiate Be extra careful if you get the sense you’re being rushed Be exceptionally careful if sending money to someone: double-check their account information, call the person you’re paying to confirm their bank details and send smaller amounts (using PayID) rather than a single large transaction Dr Steve’s ‘Three Be’s Change your PINs and passwords, especially if you’ve been advised of an increased risk such as with the recent Optus hack. Install free, reputable security software …

Growing a small container or raised bed herb garden makes it easy to grab a handful of basil for a pasta, a sprig of rosemary to sprinkle over potatoes, or pick a few chillies to spice up a curry.  Creating a DIY herb garden can be easy and I’m going to give you some information that will hopefully convince you to spice up your home and grow an herb garden.  One of the main reasons I love growing herbs is …

We’ve updated our Security page on the website for our members, it’s the perfect place to browse for suggestions on staying secure, for key warning signs to watch out for and for instructions on what to do if you suddenly need help.  Visit the First Option member security page…