Tough times ahead

[MotherBear]

Tough times ahead for families
5:00AM Sunday March 23, 2008
By Anna Rushworth

Plan ahead, work out a budget, and cut back on luxuries. That's the advice for families as prices rise, with interest rates set to follow.

The Herald on Sunday spoke to three families and got advice from Federation of Family Budgeting Services chief executive Raewyn Fox.

We found that all were making sacrifices, regardless of their household income.

Treats such as the occasional dinner out or a family holiday are being consigned to history as families struggle to buy the basics.

Fox said people had to account for everything in their budget, including car repairs and Christmas expenses, rather than just rent, food and bills.

More here .