Fairness in finance: working with First Nations Foundation
Updated on 28 January 2025 | 5 minute read
Most of us worry about money sometimes. For Indigenous Australians, though, there’s a much higher chance of facing those fears.
Half of First Nations people are in financial distress. And 75% of the community struggles to access financial services.1
First Nations Foundation exists to make sure Indigenous Australians have the tools and knowledge to prosper and thrive. And now, we’re working with them.
Knowing how to manage your money is life changing. Everyone should have the skills to do it, our Executive General Manager Advocacy and Impact, Anne Fuchs, says.
That’s why we have partnered with the First Nations Foundation.
“Indigenous communities often struggle to access information and services many of us take for granted. That’s not right or fair,” Anne says. “Part of fixing that is working with and learning from Indigenous-led organisations like First Nations Foundation.
"We’re proud to support their projects and their push for fairness. We’re also really looking forward to going on the road with the team again this year for Financial Wellness Week."
Phil Usher, CEO First Nations Foundation said: “For Indigenous people to be included in every aspect of the finance industry, it’s critical that we partner with the right organisations. ART brings extensive experience across the superannuation sector and a willingness to engage with Indigenous communities that gives me confidence this will be a beneficial partnership for First Nations people.”
We’re on the road together from July
We’ll be part of First Nations Foundation’s Financial Wellness Week in July. And we’ll join the team for events throughout the rest of the year. These local pop-ups offer drop-in, hands-on help with money matters.
Last year we helped Australians living in remote communities find over $3.5 million in lost or forgotten super2 – and get back $242,000 held by the ATO.3 So it’s time very well spent.
Here’s where to find us.
Financial Wellness Outreach: 21-25 July 2025
We’ll join events in Sarina and Mackay.
11-15 August 2025
We’ll be in Palm Island for two days and Charters Towers, based in Townsville.
8-12 September 2025
We’ll be based in Weipa for events covering Weipa, Old Mapoon and Napranum.
20-24 October 2025
We’ll be back in Gulf Country with 2 days in Croydon and Normanton.
10-14 November 2025
We’ll be based in Cooktown, also covering Hope Vale.
Learn more about First Nations Foundation’s projects
These are just a few examples. There are lots more on the First Nations Foundation’s website.
My Money Dream
Award-winning training in financial skills for individuals, employers, mentors and community organisations.
Tomorrow Money
An online hub on everything from home ownership to super, specifically reflecting Indigenous experiences.
Rich Blak Women
Education, events and resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women to talk safely and openly about money – including cultural obligations and building wealth to pass down.
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