Loved-up Aussies spend $1.6 billion per year on secret purchases

19 June, 2019, Sydney, Australia - Millions of Aussies in relationships are guilty of secret spending, according to Finder, Australia's most visited comparison site.

New research by Finder reveals that 2.7 million Australians hide purchases from their partner, spending roughly $588 per month in secret.

Of those hiding purchases from their significant other, the most common purchases Aussie lovebirds are hiding include clothes (38%), guilt foods (32%), gambling (26%) and shoes (18%).

Men spend more on forking out $807 per month on secret purchases compared to just $366 for women.

Bessie Hassan, money expert at Finder, said discussing spending habits with your partner might depend on how far along in the relationship you are.

"If you've just started dating someone, there's no need to divulge every detail of your monthly expenditure.

"But if you're merging finances and moving in together, you'll probably need to have a conversation about money and spending habits.

"After all, if you plan on buying a home together down the track, both your credit scores will be considered. If your partner has a bad credit score, it'll impact your borrowing power as a couple."

Over half (60%) of secret spenders pay for their sneaky items with cash. A further 26% use a debit card while 24% whack it on the credit card.

"Using cash does suggest some Aussies are going the extra mile to cover their tracks. But if you're going to be merging finances — and lives — with your partner, they'll find out sooner or later if you're splashing cash behind their back," said Hassan.

Women are most likely to hide clothing purchases, while men more commonly hide adult entertainment.

Gen Y couples are the most likely to hide purchases from each other, while Baby Boomers are the least likely.

"Lying about your finances can damage a relationship, especially if it results in debt. If you're constantly hiding your spending from your partner, it's important to ask yourself why that might be the case," said Hassan.

Source: Finder survey, May - June 2019 Aussies who have secret spending habits

Tips for merging finances with your partner:

• Have 'the talk'. It's important to have a clear understanding of how much each partner earns and what you'll both contribute. Be honest about your financial goals and any outstanding debt. Being honest from the start will prevent any financial hiccups down the track.
• Decide how to merge. There's no right or wrong way to do this. You may want to merge a portion of your finances for everyday spending and bills, and keep your saving accounts separate. Or you might combine your savings to work towards a joint goal like a holiday or a house deposit.
• Pick the right time. Make sure you trust your partner completely before taking the plunge and merging your money. Opening a joint account is a big step in any relationship, and both of you should be comfortable with it before going ahead.