Australians should use their tax return to reduce debt rather than spending it frivolously, the nation’s largest credit union says.

Credit Union Australia (CUA) acting chief executive Rob Nicholls said consumers should repay existing debt in the current economic climate or invest the tax return for future growth.

“While those shoes or new pair of jeans may be a `must have’ today, there are better ways to spend a tax return that could provide you with an endless shoe or jeans collection in years to come,” Mr Nicholls said.

There were obvious ways for Australians to use their tax return including to reduce debt, Mr Nicholls said.

“It’s amazing how peacefully you will sleep when you don’t have a $5,000 credit card debt hanging over your head,” he said.

Recent data from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) confirm consumers have increased their restraint with spending and subsequent levels of debt.

The total balances outstanding on credit and charge cards fell one per cent in March, while the average balance on a credit card, $3119 in March, grew by one per cent over the past year, RBA data revealed.

This was the slowest annual rate of growth in credit card balances since records started 14 years ago.

Repay any interest free loans, particularly those offering 12-month interest free terms when buying furniture or whitegoods, Mr Nicholls said.

“Some people are unaware that once this term has expired a large interest rate is usually applied to the loan, which can end up costing an individual much more than the original cost of the item,” he said.

Mr Nicholls said consumers should open an online savings or cash management account to take advantage of the higher interest rates on offer.

“Such accounts are great because they allow you access to your funds whenever you like,” he said.

Buy only essential items and avoid spending the tax return on conspicuous consumption, Mr Nicholls said.
“Tax returns can come in handy for necessities such as dentist bills, school or uniform fees, a car registration or car service,” he said.

“Alternately you could use it to start your Christmas shopping early.”

AAP