Amy Parsons, CWES Financial Counsellor for Illawarra Money Clinics. Photo: Centre for Women’s Economic Safety.
More than 130 women in the Illawarra have had their debts wiped, to the tune of $125,000.
The debts, a result of financial abuse, were waived thanks to a partnership between the Greater Charitable Foundation and the Centre for Women’s Economic Safety (CWES).
The Illawarra Money Clinic service, launched in February 2024, offers free, independent, and confidential support for women experiencing economic abuse.
Over the past 12 months, the clinic has delivered 324 individual appointments, provided vital guidance and eased the burden of abuse.
Financial abuse is a form of domestic and family violence.
Perpetrators control, exploit or sabotage their victims’ economic resources by limiting their access to money, technology or employment, forcing them to take on debts or sign contracts.
Catherine Robson, Chair of the NGM Group Charitable Foundation, said the foundation recognised how financial abuse trapped women in violent relationships, and was proud to support the initiative.
“Economic abuse is a devastating form of domestic violence that can have lasting impacts on victims’ lives,” Ms Robson said.
“The work CWES is doing through the Illawarra Money Clinic is truly life-changing.
“It not only provides practical financial support but also restores a sense of hope and possibility for the women they help.”
The Illawarra Money Clinic, which operates from Shellharbour and Wollongong, is part of CWES’ broader mission to support women experiencing economic abuse and improve women’s economic safety.
Since its launch, the clinic has received referrals from 23 local organisations and conducted eight community presentations to raise awareness about financial safety and economic abuse.
CWES CEO Rebecca Glenn said the service played a crucial role in supporting women to leave violent relationships.
“Our Illawarra Money Clinics fill an important gap, providing women with tailored financial safety planning and support in a safe and trusted environment,” Ms Glenn said.
“The fact that we’ve supported 130 women in just 12 months is a testament to the growing need for these services.
“Beyond individual support, we’ve built strong relationships with more than 20 local organisations that regularly refer women to our service.
“This community connection is vital to ensuring women have access to the help they need when they need it most.”
For more information about CWES’ Money Clinics or to access support, visit its website.
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