Daniel Kowalski, Channel Seven swimming commentator and Olympics gold medallist.

What was your first job?

I worked cleaning my local pool where I grew up in Adelaide.

What did you get paid?

It was $20, regardless of how long I was there.

Are you a saver or a spender?

I sit on the fence with that one but am trying to save right now.

What do you spend your money on?

Food, wine and homewares.

How do you save?

I eat in.

What was your worst purchase?

A designer suit. I still don't know what I was thinking.

Credit cards are:

a) great

b) helpful

c) a poor investment

d) work of the devil

b) helpful

Why?

Because I can't renovate my house without one.

Does budgeting work for you?

I've never tried it properly but I might do it in the not too distant future.

What's the best piece of investment advice you have heard?

I remember hearing that before I bought my house, it's a buyer's market so I bought.

What's the best piece of investment advice you have actually acted upon?

As above.

If I was given $20,000 ...

I would use it to renovate my house.

If I was given $20,000 I would invest in ... a car only because I don't own one right now. But if I did have a car I would put $20,000 towards a deposit for another property.