Financial counsellors highlight stories of hardship and hope
14 August 2026
An exhibition held at Parliament House has showcased the vital role of financial counsellors in supporting people facing financial stresses.
The event highlighted the growing demand for support services, with many Victorian households impacted, including some communities that face multiple forms of disadvantage.
Speaking at the event launch, Financial Counselling Victoria CEO, Zyl Hovenga-Wauchope said the Parliament House exhibition was particularly important in the middle of an ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
‘Financial counsellors are offering really essential services to people who are struggling and who do need help and do need to be listened to and respected and supported to navigate what are challenging economic times,’ he said.
Among the participants at the expo were service providers from Melbourne and regional Victoria that support people affected by family violence, gambling harm, mortgage stress, small business financial difficulties and health-related financial hardship.
They often work quietly behind the scenes but have a profound impact on individuals, families and communities.
‘Financial counsellors provide free, independent and confidential support. They help people understand their options and advocate on their behalf and navigate complex systems,’
Mr Hovenga-Wauchope said.
A key feature of the exhibition was a collection of case studies showcasing the experiences of clients who have received support. The stories demonstrated resilience, recovery and hope, while also illustrating the increasing complexity of issues being presented to services.
‘Financial counselling changes lives. It prevents crises from escalating. It helps people stay housed, connected and financially secure. It gives people dignity, empowerment and choice,’
Mr Hovenga-Wauchope said.
He called for members of parliament to sign a pledge wall at the expo to show support for financial counselling services and to help raise awareness of the role they play in helping people experiencing financial hardship.
‘While our sector may be small, the impact on individuals, families and their communities is enormous,’ he said.