If you’re in a financial pinch, you’re not alone.
Nearly 1 in 5 Australians experienced financial stress in 2022-23, with rising living costs and unexpected expenses putting pressure on household budgets.
Meanwhile, data from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) shows that over 40% of adults have less than $1,000 in savings**, making emergency funds scarce for many.
Whether you need cash for bills, rent, or an urgent expense, there are legal and safe ways to get money quickly.
From government support programs to flexible side hustles, here are 12 legitimate ways to access fast cash in Australia—backed by official resources and real data.
Let’s dive in!
Here are 12 real ways to earn or borrow quick cash when you need it most.
- Sell Unused Items Online
Declutter your home and sell items you no longer need on platforms like:
- Facebook Marketplace
- eBay
- Poshmark (for clothing)
- OfferUp
Electronics, furniture, and designer clothes often sell quickly for cash.
- Participate in Paid Surveys & Market Research
Companies pay for consumer opinions through sites like:
- Swagbucks
- Survey Junkie
- InboxDollars
While earnings are modest, they can add up if you dedicate time.
- Freelance or Gig Work
Use your skills to earn money fast with gigs like:
- Fiverr (writing, graphic design, etc.)
- Upwork (professional freelancing)
- TaskRabbit (helping with odd jobs)
- Rover (pet sitting or dog walking)
- Drive for Rideshare or Delivery Apps
If you have a car, sign up for:
- Uber / Lyft (ride-sharing)
- DoorDash / Uber Eats (food delivery)
You can start earning the same day.
- Rent Out a Room or Parking Space
- List a spare room on Airbnb
- Rent out your parking spot on SpotHero or Neighbor
- Pawn or Sell Valuables
Pawn shops or online buyers (like Worthy for jewelry) offer quick cash for:
- Electronics
- Jewelry
- Musical instruments
- Borrow from Friends or Family
If possible, ask for a short-term loan from someone you trust (and pay it back promptly).
- Cash Advance Apps
Apps like EarnIn, Dave, or Brigit let you borrow small amounts against your next paycheck.
- Sell Plasma or Participate in Medical Studies
Donate plasma at centers like BioLife or CSL Plasma for $20–$50 per session.
- Take Out a Payday Alternative Loan (PAL)
Some credit unions offer small, short-term loans with lower interest than payday lenders.
- Offer Local Services for Cash
Quick cash jobs include:
- Lawn mowing
- House cleaning
- Tutoring
- Handyman work
- Use a Credit Card Cash Advance (Last Resort)
If you have a credit card, you can withdraw cash (but beware of high fees and interest).
Final Thoughts
When you need money fast, explore selling items, freelancing, gig work, or short-term borrowing before resorting to high-interest loans. Choose the best option based on your needs and ability to repay.
Which method will you try first?
Let us know in the comments!
