Groceries are one of the biggest and most frequent expenses for Australian families, and with rising food prices, it’s easy to feel like your supermarket bill is getting out of control. Even when you shop with the best intentions, impulse buys, clever displays and “special” offers can quickly add to your total.
The good news is that small, practical changes can make a real difference. This guide shares simple, realistic ways to save money on groceries, reduce food waste and keep your weekly supermarket spend in check.
Looking for a complete approach to cutting household costs? Start with our guide on how to save money as a family in Australia, which covers groceries, power bills, transport, kids’ costs and everyday expenses.
Plan before you shop
A little planning before you head to the supermarket can save you a surprising amount of money.
- Make a meal plan
Create a one- or two-week meal plan so you know exactly what ingredients you need. This helps reduce impulse buys, food waste and unnecessary trips to the supermarket. - Make a shopping list
Stick to a list and avoid buying items you don’t actually need. - Eat before you shop
Shopping while hungry almost always leads to spending more than planned.
Shop smarter at the supermarket
Being strategic about how and when you shop can significantly lower your grocery bill.
- Shop online or click and collect
Online shopping can help you avoid impulse purchases. If you don’t want to pay delivery fees, choose click and collect. - Check supermarket catalogues and specials
Review weekly supermarket catalogues and buy non-perishables in bulk when they’re on sale. - Research sales cycles
Many grocery items go on sale regularly. If you notice patterns, stock up when prices drop and avoid paying full price later. - Shop during markdown times
Learn when your local supermarket marks down meat, fish and produce nearing expiry. This is a great way to score discounts on items you can freeze or use straight away.
Use rewards programs and discounts
Loyalty programs and gift card discounts can add up over time.
- Join grocery rewards programs
Sign up for Woolworths Everyday Rewards or Coles Flybuys and redeem points for discounts on future shops. - Consider Everyday Rewards Extra
If you regularly shop at Woolworths, the Everyday Rewards Extra subscription can offer monthly discounts and bonus points. Take advantage of free trials to see if it suits your household. - Use discounted gift cards
Some memberships, such as the Entertainment Book, offer discounted gift cards that can reduce the cost of groceries and household essentials.
Choose cheaper alternatives
Not all savings come from shopping less — sometimes it’s about choosing differently.
- Compare unit prices
Always check the unit price on the shelf. Bigger packages aren’t always cheaper. - Buy generic or home brands
Buying home brands instead of name brands is one of the easiest ways to reduce grocery costs. In many cases, the ingredients and taste are almost identical. We’ve put together a list of products you should buy generic to save money on your grocery bill to help you get started. - Shop at Aldi or similar low-cost supermarkets
These stores often offer lower prices on everyday staples. - Buy imperfect fruit and vegetables
Supermarket “imperfect” produce ranges, such as Odd Bunch or similar options, offer big savings on fruit and veggies that taste the same.
Buy in season and in bulk
Timing and quantity matter when it comes to saving money.
- Buy fruit and vegetables in season
Seasonal produce is usually cheaper, fresher and better quality. - Buy non-perishables in bulk
Stock up on items like canned food, toilet paper and laundry detergent when they’re discounted. - Share bulk buys with friends
Split bulk purchases of fresh produce with a friend or neighbour to save money without waste.
Try alternative shopping options
Looking beyond the major supermarkets can unlock extra savings.
- Shop at farmers markets
Visiting farmers markets near closing time can lead to discounts, especially on fresh produce. - Consider Costco (carefully)
Costco can offer value on bulk items, particularly non-perishables. Just be mindful of impulse spending and only buy what you’ll actually use.
Check your grocery bill carefully
Mistakes at the checkout can cost you money if you don’t spot them.
- Review your receipt before leaving
Make sure items have scanned at the correct price. - Know the scanning code of practice
Major supermarkets such as Woolworths, Coles and Aldi have policies that entitle customers to receive items free or discounted if they scan higher than the shelf price, subject to conditions and exclusions. Check the Scanning Code of Practice.
Grow some of your own food
Even a small amount of home-grown produce can help cut grocery costs.
- Grow herbs and vegetables at home
Herbs and some vegetables are easy to grow and save money over time. You don’t need a large garden — balconies, courtyards and small plots can work well. If you’re new to gardening, start with easy options. Here are some vegetables to grow to save money that work well in Australian backyards and balconies. - Start with high-yield plants
Focus on vegetables and herbs you use often to get the most value from your effort.
Saving money on groceries doesn’t mean giving up good food or family favourites. With a bit of planning and smarter shopping habits, it’s possible to reduce your grocery bill and keep more money in your household budget.