The barter economy is back. Fancy living rent-free with full board in exchange for some light housekeeping duties? Don’t care to be paid in, you know, actual money? Let’s call it, gigs for digs.

You’re in luck. There are plenty of these arrangements on offer. In one case, highlighted in Jesuit publication Eureka Street, a Melbourne family advertised for a “FREE ROOM IN EXCHANGE FOR HELP.”

As more families have both parents work, domestic duties are outsourced to ensure equality at home. Credit:Greg Newington

The deal was that food, accommodation, internet, electricity and basic facilities like bed linen and towels would be provided in exchange for caring for two children and sole responsibility for their drop-offs and pick-ups to kinder, childcare, swimming and sports, plus a bit of housework, cooking and snack prep.

The successful applicant, preferably a “sensible female”, was expected to have their own drivers’ licence and car and to be fully available – so it would be hard to combine this with a second job. I’m not sure how you’re meant to pay for the car and petrol or any other expenses that are not rent, food and utilities.