Money Talks

Council’s Money Talks workshops provide free and practical advice to our community about managing money.

Expert speakers will provide advice on a range of financial issues that can face people on low incomes, helping residents to make informed decisions and take control of their finances.

To register for any of the seminars below, contact Council’s Financial Counselling Service on 9205 5441 before Monday 23 April 2012.

The workshops will be held from 10am – 1pm at the Fitzroy Town Hall Reading Room (corner of Moor and Napier streets, Fitzroy) throughout May. The workshops are free and lunch is provided.

Tuesday 15 May

10am
High-Risk Low-Income: Centrelink’s shifting goal posts
Social security laws and policies, administered through Centrelink, have become increasingly complicatied. Know your rights and obligations to ensure you receive the payments you’re entitled to.

Tuesday 22 May

10am
The Roof Over your Head: housing issues & strategies
Housing options are limited for those on low incomes. Some people can find themselves without a roof over their head at all. Knowing your rights & responsibilities, and where to go for help, puts you in a better position to ensure you have a place to live.

11am
Life in the ‘Red Lane’: managing money when you have none
People on Centrelink benefits, in casual or low-paying employment, or those who suddenly find themselves in changed circumstances, can feel overwhelmed by the concept of budgeting. Be clear in your own mind about what you want financially, and develop plans to manage your limited income.

Tuesday 29 May

10am
The Poor Pay More: credit & debt survival strategies
There are ‘good’ and ‘bad’ credit options. Learn where to get the good ones, how to avoid the bad ones, and how to get out of trouble if things go wrong.

11am
Courting Disaster: fines and other misdemeanors
Receiving a letter from a legal firm such as a ‘notice’ or a ‘summons’, or anything that seems slightly legal can make you very nervous. Find out what these documents mean, what to do about them, and who can help.

Tuesday 5 June

10am
Disempowered Consumers: utilities
Deregulation of the utility industry has led to ‘hard-sell’ tactics by utililities companies, as well as hardship options to assist consumers. This session will inform participants on how to make the best decisions when sigining up with light and gas companies.

Tuesday 12 June

10am
Consumer Law and phone contract ‘traps’
The variety of mobile phone contracts on offer can make it difficult to choose a plan that’s right for you. This sessions provide more information about what to look outr for when choosing a mobile phone contract and your rights as a consumer.

Tuesday 19 June

10am
Are we there yet?: Review of sessions, learnings & ‘graduation’ party
An opportunity for participants to discuss the information and issues raised in all the sessions and ask any questions. Certificates will be presented to participants who have shared this journey together.

Further information
Financial Counselling - Family and Children's Services
9205 5441
financialcounselling@yarracity.vic.gov.au