Agreed, you might end up shooting yourself in the foot by accepting without funding in place if things later fall through on the funding end. Contact them and see how long you can have to think it over and use that time to continue to apply and attend interviews. Academia is a dog eat dog world in my experience so they wont hold it against you as long as you do reply within the agreed timeframe.

Honestly I found what was around dictated my career direction more than what I intended. I always knew I wanted to take on a PhD (in my area its generally required at some point) but when I first finished my masters there were no PhD's that caught my eye and a really good job opportunity came up. Two years later I have some strong experience in a specialised field and my former work place helped me to fund and create a PhD position which I am now undertaking. Keep an open mind and see what chances come your way is my advice!

Thank you so much! That clears up all the confusion, much appreciated!

I've just started my PhD and gained my first installment of my stipend, which I understand is tax free. What I'm unclear on is whether or not I need to inform the tax office that I am no longer working and on an annual tax exempt stipend or if I only need to contact them should I take up an additional part time job. I've tried looking online but the information seems to be unclear and conflicting. Any advice would be much appreciated!