Geelong Place-based Financial Inclusion Action Plans

Place-based Geelong FIAP

In early 2018, the Helen Macpherson Smith Trust extended an opportunity for Good Shepherd to leverage the learnings of the National FIAP Program and test it in a specific place in regional Victoria. Geelong was selected as the first location to pilot the concept of a Place-based FIAP.

Geelong2

Why Geelong?

The Geelong region has a diverse economy, with growing industries and access to infrastructure, yet heavy manufacturing has historically been the biggest employer. More recently, the uncertain global economy and the technological disruption has led to the downsizing and closure of many factories. The local economy has been transitioning towards more diversified employment in higher skilled service industries including education, health, scientific research, and tourism yet those with lower skills and education particularly older workers are likely to be left behind.

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Geelong Financial Inclusion Action Plan: Driving Positive Change

The 2022 Geelong FIAP report (below) highlights the critical role played by all Geelong FIAP members, over the past 18 months, in addressing the issues of financial stress and hardship affecting the local communities.

The Pioneers explored the impact of key risks and triggers of financial stress and hardship in Geelong such as low income, unemployment, specific life events, lack of access to safe and affordable products and services, limited knowledge, and capability to undertake effective financial decisions and identified practical actions to address these challenges.

Geelong Financial Inclusion Action Plan 2020-2021

Geelong Region FIAP - Dec 2021 Report: How the Pioneers have been successful in driving positive change through practical actions

Geelong FIAP

Geelong Build Place-based FIAP

With the success of the Foundation FIAP in the Geelong region, the development of a Geelong Regional ‘Build FIAP’ (phase two) was initiated in July 2022. This is made possible by funding support from the Building Better Regions Fund and the Federal Government, along with Good Shepherd.

This initiative has seen the continued engagement of the pioneer organisations along with the further engagement of potentially new Geelong Region placed-based FIAP members to help support the financial wellbeing of individuals within the Geelong community.

The ‘Build – Geelong Region Financial Inclusion Action Plan’ will launch in March/April 2023.

Place-based Geelong FIAP

Aware Super

Aware Super

“Our goal, by investing your super, is to improve our communities, economy, and our environment, while also delivering strong long-term returns.    Aware Super are a tobacco-free fund at the forefront…
City of Greater Geelong

City of Greater Geelong

City of Greater Geelong’s purpose: Working together for a thriving community. “At City of Greater Geelong, we are committed to working together for a thriving community. We do this by…
Bethany Group

Bethany Group

Bethany Community Support Inc. is an independent, not-for-profit community services organisation providing high-quality support services for women, men, children, and families living in the Barwon and Southwest regions of Victoria.  …
Barwon Water

Barwon Water

“Barwon Water (Barwon Region Water Corporation) is Victoria’s largest regional urban water corporation. We have a proud history supporting regional prosperity by providing excellence in water, sewerage and recycled water…
Colac Otway Shire

Colac Otway Shire

“The Colac Otway Shire is a richly diverse area located less than two hours west of Melbourne, linked by rail and a dual highway.  Colac Otway is one of the…
Give Where You Live

Give Where You Live

Give Where You Live Foundation is a unique, place-based philanthropic community foundation.  They are a change-maker for their region. Who constantly looking at, assessing, and addressing social needs within their…
Good Money (Geelong Store)

Good Money (Geelong Store)

Good Money stores support people to make responsible and sustainable financial decisions.  Good Money offers financial support via a network of financial capability workers and counsellors and access to a…
WorkSafe Victoria

WorkSafe Victoria

“At WorkSafe Victoria we explored whether our people had similar financial wellbeing needs to what global research suggests. The outcome is that they do have financial wellbeing and literacy needs,…
Match Works

Match Works

“At MatchWorks, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to work. That’s why every year, we help thousands of people from all backgrounds, ages and abilities to find the right job. …
Deakin University

Deakin University

Top 1% of universities worldwide*  As one of Australia’s leading tertiary education providers, Deakin offers a personalised experience enhanced by world-class programs and innovative digital engagement. We lead by creating…

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