Child and Family Services Ballarat (Cafs) is encouraging individuals and families across the Central Highlands region to seek support early if they are feeling overwhelmed by financial stress, following new research released by The Salvation Army that shows nearly half of Australians are starting 2026 stressed about their finances.
The nationwide survey revealed that nearly half of all Australians (44%) will start 2026 in debt, and almost 9 out of 10 people report feeling the same or more stressed about their finances compared to last year.
Cafs CEO Wendy Sturgess said the findings mirror what Cafs’ practitioners are hearing every day from local families.
“People are doing their best in a very challenging economic climate. 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,” Ms Sturgess said.
Cafs’ Financial Counselling service provides free, confidential, and independent support to anyone experiencing financial difficulty. The service helps people negotiate with creditors, understand debt options, and work towards greater financial stability. Cafs also provide a Financial Capability Program to support and strengthen budgeting skills and financial literacy.
“There is no shame in reaching out. Financial stress can happen to anyone, especially at this time of year when Christmas spending, school expenses, and rising living costs collide,” Ms Sturgess added.
"A conversation with a financial counsellor can be the first step toward regaining control and feeling hopeful about the future."
A growing community need
In line with the national 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
difficulty meeting day‑to‑day expenses
Cafs Financial Counselling and Financial Capability Programs are available to people living in Ballarat and the broader Central Highlands region. You can learn more or request support here https://cafs.org.au/our-services/financial-wellbeing
