How to make some extra cash through 'side-hustles' these holidays

We live in a gig economy that makes it easier to carve out a living based solely on casual work the likes of which we have never seen before.

The most basic of everyday tasks are now up for grabs when it comes to ways to make money and with most Australians feeling the pinch ahead of Christmas 2022 and the New Year, it is the perfect opportunity to make some extra cash.

These 'gigs' or side-hustles can be lucrative and even fun.

There can also be some pitfalls.

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Why side-hustles have become so popular

Side-hustles can be anything, but work best when you monetise something you love or are particularly good at. They require less effort than proper jobs and are usually starring you in the face.

Work for those with extra time on their hands

For those who have extra time on their hands, a more traditional route is possible over Christmas and the new year in the form of seasonal retail work, many of which offer out-of-office hours work opportunities making them easier to fit into your current schedule.

The most popular seasonal casual work available across Australia via Seek and Indeed include:

• Restocking shelves
• Working with Santa
• Aged care and disability care
• Receptionist

Make money during the holiday travel season

As Australian families catch up on their travel now pandemic restrictions are no long a factor, there are many opportunities to make some extra cash through pet sitting.

Mad Paws is one of the most popular sites that manages this side-hustle. Set up your profile and get busy. One Mad Paws user reports making thousands of dollars a month caring for other people's cats, easy work that requires twice-daily visits to several cats each day including feeding and spending time with them.

Housesitting is also a simple way to make money over the holiday season.

Simple ways to make Christmas cash

There are lots of other ways to earn extra cash by monetising your skills. Just advertise the following on Airtasker and you'll find yourself busy quickly:

• Writing Christmas cards
• Making cards and decorations
• Gift-wrapping services
• Christmas cleaning
• Christmas shopping for gifts and/or food for families
• Baking treats for families

Tips for those planning to start hustling

As soon as you start making money from extra work, you need to get organised by:

• Tracking all of your expenses
• Tracking all of your income
• Reporting all of your extra income to the ATO
• Ensuring all amounts are paid as you go
• Encourage clients to leave positive reviews on sites such as Mad Paws and Airtasker