I've recently gone through my bank statements for the last six months to work out when I'll be broke ::) (must get a job), and have found that we spend about $3,000 a month on living expenses, before rent and the kids private school fees.

Food, clothing, stationery, dentist, insurances etc. comes to about $2350 per month, utilities (electric, telecom) come to an average $335 per month, and petrol has increased from $140 per month to $204 per month.

There are the four kids and myself. The food bill is big, but 75% of the time I only buy what is on offer. Here you need to keep an eye on the prices otherwise you can find yourself paying a ransom for that head of brocolli or cucumber when it goes up in price due to it being out of season or a shortage. Clothing is generally bought at The Warehouse as it is the only shop in our town (apart from boutiques) which sells clothing.

I hope my figures are not frightening ... we could cut back on some things, but we also do not have to pay council taxes, water rates etc. which others may have to pay.

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