Mob Strong Debt Help program to support financial well-being

First Nations people across Australia will have greater access to services to strengthen financial skills and make informed money choices, with the Government investing $3.1 million in four key financial wellbeing providers.

The Mob Strong Debt Help program will receive $750,000 to deliver their free national financial counselling helpline, providing financial counselling services to First Nations clients.

“Helping people manage their money is about giving them choices, power and dignity,” Minister for Social Services, Tanya Plibersek said.

“Whether it’s working out your budget for your weekly shop, saving for something special or planning how to pay off a debt, understanding money matters.

Minister for Social Services, Tanya Plibersek.

“By investing in these services, we’re making sure all Territorians and First Nations people across Australia have access to the resources they need to take care of their financial wellbeing.”

One of Australia’s longest running financial education programs for First Nations people, MoneyBusiness, will receive a $100,000 boost, supporting up to an additional 50 financial counsellors and capability workers to complete their training nationally.

The South Australian Financial Counsellors Association (SAFCA) will receive $250,000 to continue oversight of financial counselling organisations in the Northern Territory, providing training, accreditation and resources to support the financial counselling sector.

Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy.

A further $2 million will be invested to expand the No Interest Loans Scheme across remote areas of the Northern Territory. This funding will facilitate around 2,000 additional loans, building on 25,000 loans already delivered to individuals on low incomes nationally.

Navigating tough times

This funding is in addition to the almost $50 million in Financial Wellbeing and Capability funding rolling out across the Northern Territory, as part of the Government’s $460 million investment to help Australians navigate tough times.

Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy said the investment would help First Nations people strengthen their financial skills and make informed choices for themselves, their families and their communities.

“The Government is committed to supporting First Nations communities, investing in services that reflect partnership and shared decision-making.”

More information about financial counselling and capability services, is available on the Department of Social Services website: https://www.dss.gov.au/supporting-people-financial-crises