With the cost of living continuing to put pressure on household budgets across New South Wales, energy bills remain one of the biggest financial stressors for many families. But there’s good news: the NSW Government has a free online tool that can help you find out exactly what support and savings are available to you […]
Financial Counsellors are regularly asked questions about Superannuation. The most common questions are ‘What is Superannuation?’ and ‘Can I access my Superannuation early?’ Quite often Financial Counsellors say they’re met with surprised looks when they answer that Superannuation is actually part of your own wages that are put away for you for your retirement. In […]
The March 2026 issue of FCAN’s Sharkwatch the Financial Counselling Journal is out now. The issue includes articles about the latest in financial counselling. Sharkwatch is published quarterly by the FCAN Editorial team and is distributed to members in NSW and to subscribers across Australia. Read all past issues of Sharkwatch here.
When energy and water bills arrive, they can be confusing, especially if English isn’t your first language. For many people in our communities, understanding bills, knowing your rights, or asking for help can feel overwhelming. That’s why the Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW has created the “You’re Not Alone” campaign. The campaign is designed to […]
Financial strain can happen at any time of year, but it is particularly noticeable after the holiday season. The Christmas and holiday period in Australia can be challenging. As a way to manage tight finances, Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services can be a way that is used to manage financial and budgeting pressures. What is […]
As communities across New South Wales are challenged by bushfires, severe weather, flooding and other natural disasters, it’s important to know where to get disaster assistance. Government, community and financial institution support programs are available to help individuals, families and small businesses get back on their feet. Recovering from a disaster can be overwhelming. Particularly […]
The December 2025 issue of FCAN’s Sharkwatch the Financial Counselling Journal is out now. The issue includes articles about the latest in financial counselling. Sharkwatch is published quarterly by the FCAN Editorial team and is distributed to members in NSW and to subscribers across Australia. Read all past issues of Sharkwatch here.
For many people, the holiday season is associated with joy, family, celebrations, and generosity. But for others it can also be a season of stress and financial hardship. It can be an anxiety inducing time. Gift-giving, holiday meals and celebrations, travel, and extra expenses, all add up; all while everyday bills and cost-of-living pressures keep […]
Each year on 26 November, communities across Australia and beyond observe Economic Abuse Awareness Day. This day is dedicated to recognise, talk about and act against a hidden but devastating form of domestic and family violence. Economic abuse often leads people to seek financial counselling and sometimes, it’s the first step toward safety, stability and […]
Gambling can be fun for some, but for others, it can cause real harm — not just financially, but emotionally and socially too. This year’s GambleAware Week (20–26 October 2025) encourages everyone to stop and think about what gambling really costs, with the theme:“There’s more to lose than money.” What GambleAware Week Is About GambleAware […]