Please tell us about your background:
I have been a Victorian FC for 2 years with Anglicare Victoria, prior to that I was with Anglicare in South Australia. I have 3 grown children, and a super cute 18 month old grandson. When I am not at work I am at home crafting.
What motivated you to pursue financial counselling?
Most of my career has been in financial planning, and I also have a Social Science (Counselling) degree but neither of these met my desires in helping people. When I read about financial counselling I knew that was the path I should be taking.
Please share with us about your recent trip to Canberra regarding payday lending.
I have a client that I spoke to Consumer Action Law Centre about, and it came to the attention of their advocacy team who invited us to attend some meetings at Parliament House on 16 September in regards to ‘Stop the Debt Trap’. We had a number of meetings with a variety of politicians or their staffers, as well as a press conference & other media interviews. It was an amazing experience to see the hustle and bustle of Parliament House. This has given me a greater appreciation and understanding of the effort required to put forward changes that you want to have with legislation.
What are the unique aspects of your role or the area you work in?
I think every client is unique as they come with their own bag of debts, emotions, and expectations that we have to work with.
What has been your proudest achievement to date?
I feel proud with every client that I am able to give some hope to, whether it be providing a budget that helps them to meet everyday expenses through to getting them a debt waiver.
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing the financial counselling sector?
Keeping clients in housing they can comfortably afford, with adequate heating & cooling.
What has been the most valuable resource or advice you’ve received?
Not to get emotionally involved with clients, and to ensure regular self-care.
What book are you reading at the moment?
I am currently reading 168 Hours by Laura Vanderkam, but I jump between personal growth books, podcasts, romance novels, or Harry Potter on audio.
What TV show are you currently watching?
I spend most of my time scrapbooking or cardmaking so I have something easy-watching on in the background, ranging from The Good Place to The Flash to Hallmark rom-com movies. I also watch the V8 Supercars when they have events.