What about doing something like the Rusto-Oleum Countertop (Benchtop) Transformation? Do you have access to that product in Aus? It's a spray on type surface that is cost effective :) http://countertops.rustoleumtransformations.com/ For the backsplash (or splashback) consider the peel and stick on variety to put on over your existing tile. It's called smart tile here and is also cost effective. This should get you through to the time you can budget for a remodel. Or consider any type of material to go over existing backsplash: tin tiles, old mirrors, bead board...anything works since it is temporary :)

We have four farmhouse style sinks in two different houses, and all present the same problem. It doesn't have anything to do with the material as two sinks are concrete, one stainless steel, and one composite stone. With the two kitchen sinks it's very frustrating spraying out the food particles from corner to corner. Food particles go from one side to the other, and it's very difficult to corral them to the drain. The two concrete bathroom sinks don't have enough slope, so when shaving and brushing teeth, the water and material flow to the opposite side of the sink. It's annoying to wash a 3' wide sink every time it's used. And gross if the sink isn't cleaned from side to side after every use. As a compromise, we're installing a farmhouse concrete bathroom sink with two drains and more slope. As I evaluate many things in life, a, farmhouse sink is a solutions looking for problem.

You can always go with textured glass or slump glass,it has a more rustic look and doesn't look so modern as plain glass, it's much easier to keep clean too as it doesn't streak and there is no grout...we have a very traditional kitchen and it looks amazing,this is my laundry and is actually quite a vibrant purple with dragonflies on it because,in the laundry,why not? The kitchen is more nuetral......

My parents sold a almost new kitchen. ( which was in a display home that they purchased ) with the oven. for $1500.00 because they didn't like the colour. There are a lot of people who do things like that. Goto greys online or keep your eyes peeled on gumtree for items like this. If you want something updated but are willing to wait. Sometimes painting products is far less sustainable then using something such as a reconstituted stone or getting it new. Plus a painted bench top? Think about it... It doesn't make sense to paint a kitchen bench top or food prep area.