At the heart of every strong community is a network of support, compassion, and connection. One of the Financial Wellbeing Collective’s valued partners, The Spiers Centre (TSC), exemplifies this ethos through its inclusive and person-centred approach to community services. The Spiers Centre is a beacon of hope for individuals and families navigating financial hardship, domestic and…
Many people delay their tax return because of fear, uncertainty, or mental overload. As behavioural specialists would suggest, reframing your mindset can make a big difference. Try thinking of tax time as a check-in on your financial health — just like an annual health check-up. It’s not just about getting a refund or paying a…
Winter is officially here, and while the cold weather might tempt us to crank up the heat, it doesn’t have to mean higher energy bills. At Energy Ahead, we believe in smart, simple solutions that help you stay cosy while saving energy—without sacrificing comfort or turning things off. Here are some easy, low-cost (or no-cost!) tips you can…
A Win for WA Households A recently released Rank the Energy Retailer 2025 Report highlights how energy retailers across Australia are supporting customers in financial hardship. Compiled by Financial Counselling Victoria in partnership with Energy Consumers Australia (ECA), Financial Counselling Australia (FCA), and the Consumer Policy Research Centre (CPRC), the report was informed by feedback…
Midlas is dedicated to providing inclusive, accessible, and culturally appropriate community and legal services tailored to individuals, families, and communities across Western Australia. Their holistic approach supports people experiencing financial hardship, domestic and family violence, exploitation, abuse, neglect, and the risk of homelessness. Beyond immediate assistance, Midlas focuses on building resilience, ensuring access to safety…
Financial abuse is one of the most damaging and often invisible forms of family violence. It happens when someone uses money or control over finances to trap, intimidate, or isolate their partner. This might look like being denied access to your own bank account, being forced into debt, or having your ability to work or…
Celebrating its fifth anniversary this year, Emergency Relief and Food Access Service (ERFAS) is a vital initiative by the Financial Wellbeing Collective (FWC), designed to help Western Australians navigate periods of financial hardship. Whether it’s putting food on the table, paying rent, or keeping up with utility bills, ERFAS provides critical support to those in…
Seemingly overnight prices have soared across the board on a range of consumable goods including essentials such as housing, food, fuel and utilities. No one is immune to our current cost-of-living crisis, however some of us are retreating from the reality of it. Whether it’s ignoring the strain on household budgets or pretending that things…
As we enter 2025, Australia continues to grapple with an unrelenting cost-of-living crisis that is pushing individuals and families to the brink. Essentials like safe housing, food security, and basic utilities are becoming increasingly out of reach for many. At The Spiers Centre in Perth’s northern suburbs, we see the human impact of these challenges every day—and we know that real solutions require a collective effort.
Anthea and her three children were living in Yanchep when an investor bought the four bedroom house she was renting and upped her rent by $100 per week. This was not the first rent increase for Anthea and her family. During the 18 months they were living in the home, it had sold twice and…
As we enter 2025, Australia continues to grapple with an unrelenting cost-of-living crisis that is pushing individuals and families to the brink. Essentials like safe housing, food security, and basic utilities are becoming increasingly out of reach for many. At The Spiers Centre in Perth’s northern suburbs, we see the human impact of these challenges every day—and we know that real solutions require a collective effort.
WA’s largest collective of financial counsellors reports its clients are operating on an average household budget deficit of $108 per fortnight. The 2024 data from the Financial Wellbeing Collective shows the fortnightly deficit has increased 52%, up from $71 in 2023. General Manager Helena Jakupovic says increasing costs of living means its clients’ financial position…
As we enter 2025, Australia continues to grapple with an unrelenting cost-of-living crisis that is pushing individuals and families to the brink. Essentials like safe housing, food security, and basic utilities are becoming increasingly out of reach for many. At The Spiers Centre in Perth’s northern suburbs, we see the human impact of these challenges every day—and we know that real solutions require a collective effort.
I love a good budget… yes, yes, I am a financial coach, it goes with the territory but hear me out—budgets have been given a bad rap! Too often, the word ‘budget’ brings up feelings of restriction, deprivation, and guilt. It’s been seen as a tool for punishment rather than empowerment. But in 2025, it’s…
The gender wealth gap remains a significant issue for our society. On average, women earn less than men and often face barriers to accessing financial resources and opportunities. Women also tend to live longer than men, meaning they need to save more to ensure financial stability in retirement. The gender wealth gap can be compounded…