Financial hardship and inclusion

In November 2024 Consumer Affairs Victoria conducted a review of the state’s Financial Counselling Services.

As a major provider of financial counselling services nationally, and in Victoria, The Salvation Army provided feedback on the demand and design of services through the state and the challenges within the sector and governance structures of these programmes.

A critical component of our work is upstream focused financial confidence and empowerment programs. These ensure community members know their economic rights and can make informed economic decisions. The Salvation Army would like to see more programs similar to our own You’re the Boss program fostered by Consumer Affairs Victoria.

The submission also calls for investment innovative service delivery, partnering with financial counselling provers, and with healthcare and community facilities, such as libraries, to maximise the coverage and accessibility of financial counselling services.

Finally, The Salvation Army made recommendations around certainty of grant funding periods and renewal processes to ensure that we can operate sustainably and maximally develop and retain staffing

The Salvation Army continues to work with Consumer Affairs Victoria to improve the delivery of financial counselling services throughout the state.

• Learn more about the Inquiry
• Read The Salvation Army Submission