Fairness in finance: working with First Nations Foundation

Most of us worry about money sometimes. For Indigenous Australians, though, there’s a much higher chance of facing those fears.

Half of First Nations people are in financial distress. And 75% of the community struggles to access financial services.¹

First Nations Foundation exists to make sure Indigenous Australians have the tools and knowledge to prosper and thrive. And now, we’re working with them.

Knowing how to manage your money is life changing. Everyone should have the skills to do it, our Executive General Manager Advocacy and Impact, Anne Fuchs, says.

That’s why we have partnered with the First Nations Foundation.

“Indigenous communities often struggle to access information and services many of us take for granted. That’s not right or fair,” Anne says. “Part of fixing that is working with and learning from Indigenous-led organisations like First Nations Foundation.

Phil Usher, CEO First Nations Foundation said: “For Indigenous people to be included in every aspect of the finance industry, it’s critical that we partner with the right organisations. ART brings extensive experience across the superannuation sector and a willingness to engage with Indigenous communities that gives me confidence this will be a beneficial partnership for First Nations people.”

We’re on the road together from July

We’ll be part of First Nations Foundation’s Financial Wellness Week in July. And we’ll join the team for events throughout the rest of the year. These local pop-ups offer drop-in, hands-on help with money matters.

Last year we helped Australians living in remote communities find over $3.5 million in lost or forgotten super² – and get back $242,000 held by the ATO.³ So it’s time very well spent.

Learn more about First Nations Foundation’s projects

These are just a few examples. There are lots more on the First Nations Foundation’s website.

• My Money Dream: award-winning training in financial skills for individuals, employers, mentors and community organisations.
• Tomorrow Money: an online hub on everything from home ownership to super, specifically reflecting Indigenous experiences.
• Rich Blak Women: education, events and resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women to talk safely and openly about money – including cultural obligations and building wealth to pass down.

Learn more

1. First Nations Foundation, 2023 Impact Report.
2. Internal ART data for 1 January to 31 December 2024.
3. From data provided to ART from the Australian Tax Office for 1 January to 31 December 2024.