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Georgie Tunny on financial wellbeing

6 May 2024

For many, she’s one of the friendly faces we trust to deliver news on Channel 10’s The Project, so it’s no wonder Georgie feels so familiar. Her honesty and warmth are two reasons why she’s the perfect person to explore the creative and resilient ways people from all walks of life are making ends meet right now – and her sunny outlook doesn’t hurt either. 

What were you taught about money growing up? 

The advice my dad drilled into my sister and I was to study hard, get a good job and be financially independent.

Would you say you took his words to heart? 

I think so. I have early memories of making the ugliest arts and crafts and then putting on shows and making mum and dad buy them.

How would you describe your saving style now? 

I’ve always been a pretty good saver, the caveat being that I do treat myself. I’m of the mindset that there’s no point in saving all the time if I don’t have at least a little reward for working so hard. It’s like a high five to myself. 

And if you were to describe your spending style? 

Emotional. If I’m feeling sad I often want to buy myself something to cheer up. So now, if I’m shopping online, I put everything I want in the cart and if I still want it three days later, I’ll consider buying. Mostly, I’ve completely forgotten about it. 

Do you have a savings goal you’re working towards? 

I’m a better saver if I have a goal but then I find, with life, that things pop up and it gets harder to achieve the goals – even if they’re only small ones.

Does budgeting help?

I’m learning how to live on a budget because I need to live on a budget. But I’m not amazing at it all of the time.

How confident are you with money and taking care of your financial wellness? 

I’m getting there. I know how to save. Beyond that, I’m still not always sure about what to do with the money I earn, in terms of investing and things like that.

What is the secret to finding a work-life balance?

Accepting that I’ll fail at achieving balance and not holding myself to unrealistic expectations. In the past I’ve gotten down  on myself for not giving all the parts of my life enough attention – so now I try to talk to myself more like I would a friend in the same predicament.

What’s something money can’t buy?

Fulfilment. It can certainly open doors, but will you enjoy the new room you’re in? That’s about something in you.

When it comes to looking on the brighter side, what’s your tip?

I’m an optimist so I think the more we talk about money and increase our financial capability, the more we’ll be able to make the most of opportunities that come our way, and go after the life we really want. 


The Brighter Side host, Georgie Tunny, is an Australian broadcaster, writer, and presenter. Perhaps best known as a co-host of Network 10's The Project, Georgie covers topics ranging from arts and culture to current affairs and social issues. She’s passionate about telling genuine stories and engaging thought-provoking discussions.

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