What is the 'singles tax' and is it real?
The singles tax has nothing to do with the ATO, it's the extra people pay when they can't split costs like rent, internet, insurance and other household bills the way couples can.
The "singles tax" refers to the additional financial burdens faced by unmarried individuals who are unable to split costs like rent, internet, insurance, and other household bills with a partner. This concept is particularly relevant in Australia, where more people are living alone and single-person households are projected to make up a significant portion of the population in the coming years.
Marni Trevena, a 39-year-old woman navigating life alone, expressed the emotional and financial challenges of this reality. She often feels like she is living in a world designed for couples, and it can be difficult to manage fixed costs on her own with only one income. According to a 2026 Finder Singles Tax Report, single individuals typically spend 3.5% more on goods and services compared to couples, highlighting the economic impact of the singles tax.
Financial experts emphasize that while living alone may be more expensive, it is not necessarily a reason to settle for an unsuitable relationship. Instead, singles should focus on managing their finances wisely, such as building a healthy cash buffer, shopping around for better deals on bills, and considering tax deductions and voluntary super contributions. Financial counsellors are also available to help those struggling with money management or debt.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
