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Financial Independence Hub

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This article explains financial abuse, where to get help, and the supports available. It provides information on the Financial Independence Hub, eligibility, and resources to support you.

What is Financial abuse?

Financial abuse is where someone uses money, resources or access to resources to control and gain power over someone. Often in a Domestic Violence context. Financial abuse happens when:

  • Someone influences your financial decision-making.
  • Or misuses or controls your money, financial resources, or property or assets.
  • Without your knowledge or consent.

The Ageing and Disability Commission discuss what is abuse and neglect and examples of the behaviours and warning signs to observe. 

The Financial Independence Hub

The Financial Independence Hub, by Commonwealth Bank is in partnership with Good Shepherd. The Hub helps anyone who has experienced financial abuse due to domestic and family violence to build their financial independence.

The Hub has a tailored financial coaching program run by Good Shepherd. It helps people impacted by domestic and financial abuse. The goal is to establish a pathway to long-term financial recovery.

  • This program is regardless of who they bank with.
  • There is one-on-one financial coaching.
  • Referrals to support services and access to solutions.
  • There are no costs to access the services and programs in the Hub.
  • Services are confidential and personalised.

Eligibility

The Financial Independence Hub is for:

  • Individuals who have previously experienced financial abuse due to domestic and family violence (including financial abuse)
  • Who are no longer in crisis and
  • Who wants to build their financial independence.

You may be eligible if:

  • You have previously experienced financial abuse as a result of domestic and family violence.
  • You are not currently in crisis or a domestic and family violence situation.
  • You are over 18 years of age and a resident in Australia.
  • You do not need to be a customer of Commonwealth Bank to access the Financial Independence Hub.

For more information

Good Shepherd Financial Independence Hub

Next Chapter

A strategy by CommBank about Independence for survivors of domestic and financial abuse. It assists CommBank customers and members of the community impacted by financial abuse.

Resources about Next Chapter, and the CommBank Next Chapter Website are available.

Resources

1800 Respect Financial Abuse
A Women’s Technology Safety & Privacy Toolkit by WESNET (The Women’s Services Network)
Digital Financial Security CommBank.
Financial Abuse Money Smart
Financial Abuse Support Guide Westpac
Financial Abuse and Keeping Your Banking Safe NAB
Feeling Financially Vulnerable? We are here to Help ANZ
Women's Information and Referral Exchange

IDEAS does information so you can do life.

Available Resources

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