How To Recession Proof Your Family

Jun 05, 2020


Although it may be daunting to think about, Australia has now entered a recession for the first time in 29 years. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg warned ‘difficult days ahead’ as multiple Australian catastrophes shrink the Australian economy by 0.3% in the March Quarter.

But what does a recession even mean?

A recession is a period where an economy experiences two consecutive periods of negative growth. In very simple terms it is a time where a countries economy moves backwards rather than forwards. This can be a very difficult time for families given when an economy moves backwards businesses, and job opportunities often do the same.


But there is hope!


In most cases recession never last forever and Australia prior to this year had the longest period of uninterrupted growth without recession in modern history. If any country can survive a recession without serious hits to the country it is Australia.


What Can You Do To Protect Your Family?


  1. Emergency Savings

    Don’t panic! If you haven’t already got emergency savings it is never too late to start. Build yourself a pool of funds where in the case you lose your employment you are able to secure your family’s financial future until a new source of income is available. That way no matter what happens you know your family has time to adjust to whatever new financial challenge you face. As a general rule of thumb try and establish at least 3-6 months of income to live off if these circumstances befall your family.

  2. Live In Less Luxury

    We are all guilty of buying things we want rather than need. It’s only human. However, when facing the possibility of long term financial pressure on your family it is important to re-evaluate what you really need to ensure your family’s financial security. Ask yourself the question. “Do I really need Netflix, Foxtel, and Stan or can I survive just watching free TV again?” When it comes to building an emergency fund or extending the time your family can survive without income every cent counts and it adds up very quickly. In most cases when the unexpected does happen the pain of not living with the luxury you are used to is well worth it when compared to the security of your family.

  3. Diversify Your Income

    When it comes down to crunch time income is income. That’s why it is very important to consider the industries your family is in when facing recession. Ask yourself “is my employment secure?” No matter the answer it is always worth diversifying your income just in case you are wrong. Some of the best ways to do this include getting a second job on the weekend in a separate industry, outsource your skills to others, and become an Uber driver or delivery person. When looking into these options always consider what industries are essential. Essential industries are always much less receptive to job loss and when times become tough are always first to be supported by the government.

  4. Have A Plan

    Nobody expects bad things to happen in their life. However when things start to make a turn for the worst sometimes the best thing you can do is simply plan in case it does. Then rather than stressing about it you can act quickly and secure your families safety.

Hopefully you will never need these steps and will be able to go untouched from the uncertain economic conditions we face. If you are not so luckily hopefully these can help you protect your family and prepare for the worst.


This disclaimer informs readers that the views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the text belong solely to the author, and not necessarily to the author’s employer, organization, committee or other group or individual.




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