Australia’s National Treasure and undoubtedly one of our most distinguished thinkers, Dame Edna Everage is as entertaining on the page as she is on stage. Take a comedic romp across our nation as Barry Humphries’ alter ego provides a masterly history of 101 quintessential Australian things: from our world-class sharks and marauding possums, our game-changing inventions like the dualflush loo and Hills Hoist, to barbies, eskies, goon, O Words, The Ashes, pink lamingtons, Bex powders, bogans, thongs, uggs and utes – you’ll be amazed at what our sunburnt country has contributed to modern civilisation.
Harper Collins RRP $29.99
Mention interior designers and most people think glossy magazines,
luxe fit-outs and big bucks. But interior designers are not necessarily
expensive, and the right advice from the right style guru could add
some panache and pizzazz to your décor for fewer dollars than you
think. It’s as much about knowing who to use as it is about knowing
how to use and when to use an interior designer.
With fewer first buyers taking out home loans than a decade ago, one might have concerns for the future of the Great Australian Dream.
While affordability is squeezing high-demand capitals, such as Sydney and Melbourne, interest rates remain at record lows, continuing to give astute first-time buyers opportunities to purchase their piece of the property pie.
Just because you can’t afford what or where you want to buy first up, doesn’t mean you should forego property altogether. The longer you leave getting into the market, the harder it may become. Property prices may increase beyond your reach or the cost of living in general may climb, making it harder to save for a deposit.
While you may not be able to afford your dream home now, you can still take steps to help you afford it in the future.