Editorial & Research Policy

Last updated: 5 October 2026

Our Editorial Goal

TheCostOfLiving.com.au exists to help Australians make practical decisions about everyday expenses. We aim to publish useful Australian-specific information rather than generic money-saving advice, and to make clear where figures, comparisons and recommendations come from.

Who Writes the Site

The Cost of Living is independently operated in Australia. Articles are researched and maintained by The Cost of Living Editorial Team and may draw on public data, government information, retailer pricing, product information and independent consumer research. Final editorial responsibility for material published on the site sits with TheCostOfLiving.com.au.

How We Research

For factual claims that can change, we prefer primary and authoritative Australian sources where available. Depending on the topic, these can include Australian Government agencies, regulators, official comparison tools, provider or retailer pricing, and established independent consumer organisations. Secondary comparison sites can be used as an additional source rather than the sole basis for an important claim.

Prices and offers can vary by location, customer circumstances and time. Where a guide contains a snapshot of prices, rates or plans, readers should check the provider directly before making a purchase or financial decision.

Original Testing and Analysis

Where we conduct our own comparisons, calculations, shopping checks or other original tests, we aim to explain the method and the date of the check. We distinguish our own observations from information reported by third parties.

Updates and Corrections

Articles display an update date. A date should only be changed when the article has actually been reviewed or materially updated. High-change topics such as utilities, telecommunications, insurance, banking and product pricing are prioritised for more frequent review.

If we discover a material error, we correct it as soon as practical. Readers can report outdated information or errors to hello@thecostofliving.com.au.

Recommendations

Recommendations are based on the information available at the time of review and the value we believe an option can offer the intended reader. We do not accept payment in exchange for favourable editorial conclusions. A product or service being mentioned does not mean it is suitable for every reader.

Affiliate Relationships

Some links can earn the site a commission. Affiliate relationships do not determine which conclusion an article reaches. Affiliate links are identified technically with sponsored link attributes, and our relationships are described in our Affiliate Disclosure.

Financial Information

Banking, investing and other financial content is general information only and is not personal financial advice. We do not know a reader\'s objectives, financial situation or needs. Readers should consider their circumstances and seek appropriately licensed advice where needed.