Seek early help with financial problems, Cafs urges

CHILD and Family Services Ballarat (Cafs) is urging individuals and families in the Central Highlands to seek support quickly if they feel overwhelmed by financial stress.

The advice follows the release of new research by The Salvation Army, which in a nationwide survey found that nearly half of all Australians (44 per cent) will be starting 2026 in debt and almost nine out of 10 respondents say they feel the same, or more stressed, about their finances this year compared with last year.

Cafs chief executive Wendy Sturgess said the findings mirror what her organisation’s practitioners are hearing every day from local families.

“People are doing their best in a very challenging economic climate,” Ms Sturgess said.

“Financial pressure is impacting parents, young people, older residents and working families.

“We want community members to know that they don’t have to face this alone and that confidential support is available, free of charge.”

The Cafs financial counselling service provides free, confidential and independent support to anyone experiencing financial difficulty.

It helps people negotiate with creditors, understand debt options, and work towards greater financial stability.

Cafs also provides a financial capability program to support and strengthen budgeting skills and financial literacy.

“There is no shame in reaching out,” Ms Sturgess said. “Financial stress can happen to anyone, especially at this time of year when Christmas spending, school expenses and rising living costs collide.

“A conversation with a financial counsellor can be the first step toward regaining control and feeling hopeful about the future.”

Similar to The Salvos’ findings, Cafs has seen an increase in people seeking assistance due to escalating living costs, unexpected bills, credit and loan pressures, Buy Now Pay Later commitments, and difficulty meeting day-to-day expenses.

The organisation’s financial counselling service and financial capability program are available to everyone in Ballarat and the broader Central Highlands region.

More information is available on the Cafs website and bookings can be made online or by phoning 1800 692 237.