New sessions at Wonthaggi and Corinella aim to help people build their financial awareness and skills so they can make the best use of the money they have and avoid unnecessary expenses.

The Bass Coast Community Foundation have teamed up with Mitchell House in Wonthaggi and the Corinella Community Centre to help address the need for financial capability services in Bass Coast.

Bass Coast Community Foundation Executive Officer Kirsty Mawer said the sessions will be run by an expert financial capability counsellor who will tailor the sessions to the needs of attendees, ensuring each person gets the help they need.

“Over the last decade there are more low-income households in the Bass Coast region, and COVID is having a disproportionate effect on many of our single parent households, renters, and young people,” she said.

“Talking to local service providers, we know there are many people who will hugely benefit from a bit of help to better manage their money.”

“There are also many people whose jobs in hospitality, retail or tourism have been shut down for months during the pandemic. As the situation changes, and businesses re-open to a new normal, we want to make sure those people have a firm understanding of what they can do to maximise their finances.”

Some sessions will also offer legal advice by lawyers from Gippsland Community Legal Services.

“But this is just a first step, we urgently need a local, community-based financial capability counsellor who can provide these resources and advice on an ongoing basis,” she said.

This is part of the Bass Coast Community Foundation’s work; working with the local community to advocate in areas of identified community need.

The upcoming sessions are being held once a month at Corinella and Wonthaggi for six months. Lunch is provided. COVID safe practices apply. Reserve your place by contacting the centre directly (Wonthaggi phone 5672 3731, Corinella phone 5678 0777)

Session dates and times:

• Corinella & District Community Centre – 48 Smythe St, Corinella (9th November, 14th December, 11th January, 8th February, 8th March, 12th April) RSVP (03) 5678 0777
• Mitchell House – 6 Murray St, Wonthaggi (17th November, 14th December, 19th January, 16th February, 16th March, 20th April) RSVP (03) 5672 3731