Financial abuse and support services
Financial abuse isn't always obvious.
For many people, it starts slowly. A partner questioning purchases. Wanting access to accounts. Controlling shared finances. Asking someone to sign paperwork they don’t fully understand.
Over time, these behaviours can become controlling and harmful.
People who spend their lives caring for others can sometimes find it hardest to ask for support themselves.
At Bank First, we understand conversations about money can feel deeply personal, especially during difficult situations. If something about your financial situation doesn’t feel right, support is available.
What is financial abuse?
Financial abuse happens when someone uses money, finances or financial resources to control, pressure or take advantage of another person without their full knowledge or consent.
It can affect anyone, regardless of age, background or circumstance.
Financial abuse can happen alongside family violence and coercive control, or develop in more subtle ways that can be difficult to recognise.
Financial abuse can happen at any stage of a relationship and may occur alongside other forms of abuse.
What can financial abuse look like?
Financial abuse can take many forms and often develops gradually over time, rather than through one single incident.
Some examples can include:
Restricting access to bank accounts, money or financial documents.
Controlling how money is spent, including basic household expenses.
Preventing someone from working, studying or earning their own income.
Applying for loans, credit cards or financial products in another person's name without permission.
Pressuring someone to sign documents or guarantee a loan.
Moving property, savings or assets without consent
Leaving debts unpaid in someone else's name, affecting their financial wellbeing and credit history.
For many people, the signs may only become clear much later.
Who can experience financial abuse?
Financial abuse can happen in many different relationships and situations.
Elder financial abuse
Elder financial abuse can happen when someone in a position of trust improperly uses an older person’s money, property or assets.
This may involve pressure, intimidation, misuse of Power of Attorney arrangements or taking control of finances without consent.
Cultural financial abuse
Financial abuse can sometimes be hidden behind cultural expectations around money, family responsibilities or financial decision-making.
While culture itself is never the cause, these expectations can sometimes be used to pressure or control another person's finances.
Family and domestic financial abuse
It can happen when money, property or finances are used to create control, dependence or fear within a relationship.
This might include:
Restricting access to shared finances.
Monitoring spending.
Preventing someone from working.
Forcing someone to take on debt.
Refusing access to jointly owned assets.
Disability-related financial abuse
This type of abuse can occur when someone misuses the money, finances or property of a person living with disability without their full understanding or consent.
What support is available?
At Bank First, we are committed to supporting all Members. Our Customer Care team can help.
Help and guidance
We know it can be difficult to ask for and find help if you’re experiencing financial abuse. We have compiled a list of trusted organisations that can provide you with the help you need.
Who | What they provide | How to contact them |
|---|---|---|
1800RESPECT | Free, confidential family violence and sexual assault counselling service. | 1800 737 732 – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week |
Compass | An Australian government initiative created to help older Australians to navigate the complex issue of elder abuse. | |
Elder Abuse Phone Line | Free call phone number that automatically redirects callers seeking information and advice on elder abuse with the phone service in their state or territory. | |
Seniors Rights Victoria | Information and support for those concerned about elder abuse. | |
Relationships Australia | Counselling services, mediation and family dispute resolution services for individuals, families and communities. | |
Family Relationship Advice Line | Information and advice on family relationship issues and parenting arrangements after separation. | 1800 050 321 – 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 4pm Saturday |
Lifeline | Free, 24 hour crisis support services for Australians experiencing emotional distress | 131 114 – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week |
National Debt Helpline | Free information and resources that can help if you’re struggling with debt | 1800 007 007 – 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday |
WIRE Women | Free information support and referral service for women and financial abuse in Victoria | |
Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Services | Support services for women experiencing domestic and family violence. | |
National Disability Abuse and Neglect Hotline | Free, independent and confidential service for reporting abuse and neglect of people with disability |
National Relay Service
If you’re deaf, have a hearing or speech impairment, the National Relay Service can help you speak with us.
Interpreter services
If English isn’t your first language you can use the Government’s Translator and Interpretation services, free of charge. You can access the service by calling 131 450.
This service is available in over 150 different languages. Find out how to use this service in common languages below, or visit the TIS National website.
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