Families outsourcing housework to the tune of $1000 a week

Time-poor families are spending upwards of $1000 a week outsourcing household chores to get their lives back.

Time-poor families are shifting towards a “can't someone else do it” mindset, with many spending as much as $1020 a week on outsourcing household chores.

There’s never been more demand for gardeners, dog walkers and cleaners from families using rising household incomes to have someone else do the chores.

A recent report by Australia’s Ruthven Institute has revealed which areas the average family is getting the most help in, as households outsource as much as $52,900 a year on services.

“In a normal family these days, the husband and wife are both working and to come home to do two more jobs is pretty miserable. I think that has been an important factor,” report co-author Phil Ruthven said.

“People want a life.”

The highest figures were spent on unsurprising costs including entertainment, financial services, health and tourism.

Chores which were once do-it-yourself were next on the list with 8.8 per cent of outsourcing costs directed to meals and 5.9 per cent to maintenance and cleaning.

Newport mum of four Lou Smith who outsources cleaning, gardening and a virtual assistant, pictured at home with daughters Abi 14 months, and Caitlin 7. Picture Lachie Millard

Mr Ruthven said while older generations might consider the trend as a reflection of laziness or poor values, outsourcing benefited families and likely saved arguments.

“You’re creating a job for someone who hasn’t got a job and you’ve now got more time to spend with your loved ones,” he said.

“We will never get to a stage when all household duties are outsourced in every home because there are chores that some people find therapeutic.

“But one man’s meat is another man’s poison and outsourcing has provided families with the freedom to choose.”

For Moreton Bay mum Lou Smith, outsourcing her least favourite chores made life easier.

She has a cleaner, a gardener and a virtual assistant.

“I run three businesses from home and have four children so I outsource most of the household chores that I can,” she said.

“I would be tearing my hair out otherwise.

“Outsourcing gives me more time to concentrate on my work and have more down time with my family.”