Older and Wiser – Standing Strong
We welcome all older Victorians and people who work with them to our Standing Strong resources page.
Living longer is a wonderful opportunity, yet it brings some new financial challenges.
- As we grow older, we may not have dealt with the family finances before – for the first time, money may not stretch far enough
- We are expected to go online to do tasks that used to be possible face to face. Whether because of caring responsibilities, or difficulty getting about, we may find it harder to manage our affairs in person
- Feeling that money is a private matter, we may be reluctant to share or discuss any concerns or seek help. Coping on our own, we are vulnerable to scams and financial elder abuse.
Help is available. Through our Standing Strong program we would like to ensure that older Victorians know about and can connect with the free, confidential and independent support provided by financial counsellors. More about the program…
For older Victorians:
A simple flyer explaining financial counselling including a space to enter the contact details of your local service
How to use online resources to identify the local financial counselling service that suits you best (services are available throughout Australia)
Webpage with videos and factsheets in 14 languages to help us think about what is ‘OK or not OK’ in relation to our financial arrangements. Includes a Booking Button if you would like to request a community-led session for your group
Webpage about your rights to a warm, safe home. Introduces the Victorian Government’s Utility Relief Grant Scheme (for help with electricity, gas and water bills), who may be eligible and how to apply. Includes three short videos about how a financial counsellor may help
A handy checklist to help you run through the basics of staying on track with your money and identify any questions you may have
For people who work with older Victorians:
Webpage introducing how to identify that an older person may be experiencing financial hardship, and how to connect them with free, confidential and independent financial counselling support. Includes a Booking Button if you would like to request a session for your group or work team
Poster about the Warm Safe Home webpage – to display in an area where older Victorians may see it
Hear about how financial counsellors can work to support you...
If you have any questions about the program or the above resources, please feel free to contact us.
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About the program
Financial counsellors are qualified professionals providing free, confidential and independent support and advocacy to individuals experiencing financial hardship. Their work is person-centred and strengths-based; they listen to your story and help with options that respond to your needs and preferences. By identifying options, the financial counsellor empowers you to make better choices and improve your situation.
Financial counsellors mostly operate from non-profit agencies and work under credit licence and financial services licence exemptions which permit them to access financial information and negotiate with creditors on your behalf (with your consent). Practical assistance of this kind is of great value in resolving confusion and relieving stress.
Financial Counselling Victoria (FCVic) is the peak body for all financial counsellors operating in Victoria.
FCVic acknowledges the support of the Victorian Government.