Perth Woman Saves Hundreds by Canceling Unused Digital Subscriptions
Perth resident Ellie Grace was spending nearly $200 annually on an online audiobook subscription she never used, a situation that reflects a growing national trend of subscription waste.
This Audible subscription was just one component of her yearly expenditure exceeding $4,000 on various digital services and memberships. Her spending covered popular streaming platforms including Netflix, Spotify, Kayo, Disney+, and Binge, alongside her gym membership and mobile phone plan.
Australians Spending Record Amounts on Subscriptions
New data reveals Australians are now allocating a record $78 per month on subscription services, a significant increase from $63 in 2024 according to Deloitte research. This upward trend highlights the expanding digital economy and changing consumer habits.
However, fresh figures from Bankwest present a concerning picture, with almost 50 percent of customers admitting they pay for subscriptions they don't actively use. This represents substantial financial waste across the country.
The Personal Cost of Subscription Clutter
Ellie Grace found herself among this statistic, previously paying $16.45 monthly, or $197.40 annually, for her unused Audible subscription. Like many Australians, she accumulated multiple subscriptions over time without regularly assessing their value.
"Maybe it's the new year, new me mindset, but I'm certainly conscious of moving that money away from subscriptions," Ms Grace explained. "I'm putting it either into savings for holidays, or we're looking at doing some renovations, or into our investment fund."
The Challenge of Managing Multiple Subscriptions
Bankwest chief digital officer Eleanor Bensley noted that while signing up for subscriptions is remarkably easy, managing multiple services becomes increasingly complicated over time. The bank's survey discovered 43 percent of customers struggle to track how many subscriptions they actually maintain.
"The convenience of digital sign-ups creates a hidden challenge of subscription management that many consumers underestimate," Ms Bensley observed.
Taking Control Through Cancellation
Ms Grace decided to take decisive action by going on what she describes as a "cancelling spree." After eliminating her Audible subscription and several others, she now maintains just two streaming services: Netflix and Kayo.
This strategic reduction has resulted in approximately $700 in annual savings, money she can now redirect toward more meaningful financial goals. Her experience demonstrates how regular subscription audits can yield significant financial benefits.
Banking Solutions for Subscription Management
Recognizing this widespread challenge, Bankwest plans to introduce a new feature on its mobile application next month. This tool will allow customers to view and track all their subscriptions in a single location, providing greater visibility and control over recurring expenses.
As digital subscriptions continue to proliferate across entertainment, fitness, software, and various lifestyle categories, both consumers and financial institutions are developing strategies to manage this evolving aspect of modern spending.
