For the first time ever, Australia's household-debt-to-income has exceeded 190% after roughly tripling since the late 1980s. This means the average Australian household is holding debt that's almost double their disposable income.
The fact is a lot of us have debts we need to keep under control, but this debt often rises over the festive season as we buy gifts, host family and friends, and travel.
Debt can be detrimental to your financial success if you are not careful in managing it.
Here are some tips on how to manage debt responsibly and avoid the new year debt hangover.