Financial Empowerment & Resilience Network (FERN)
It’s not easy when money feels stretched. Bills pile up, unexpected costs pop out of nowhere, and it’s hard to plan for the future when you’re just trying to get through the week. That’s why FERN exists—to make managing money feel a little easier, no matter where you’re starting from.
What is FERN?
FERN is more than just a financial capability program. It’s a welcoming space where everyone can learn, ask questions, and take small steps toward financial stability and independence in a way that fits their unique situation. Whether someone is trying to make their paycheck last, save for a big or unexpected expense, or simply feel less anxious about money, FERN provides support tailored to their circumstances.
What does FERN offer?
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to money, so we offer different ways for people to learn and get support:
- Free online workshops – practical, easy-to-follow sessions on everyday money topics like budgeting, saving, and making informed financial choices.
- One-on-one coaching – a chance to talk through personal financial goals and get support to take the next steps.
- Living Costs website – a go-to resource for financial tips, tools, and referrals to additional support services.
What do our participants say?
Our participants tell us that small changes have made a big difference:
- A remarkable 79% of our participants have expressed a noticeable boost in their confidence when it comes to managing their finances.
- 87% have reported substantial improvements in their financial management skills.
- 71% have shared that they now feel more empowered and in control of their finances.
- 70% have successfully implemented positive changes in their money management practices, resulting in tangible improvements.
Whether it’s setting up an emergency fund, learning how to track spending, or just feeling less anxious about money, at FERN we provide support that creates lasting change.
Who is eligible?
Everyone. There is no eligibility criteria to register for our workshops. All FERN’s workshops are delivered online and are easily accessible from anywhere.
Sessions are delivered in English and are open to those who manage their own or their family’s finances.
Get in touch
If you have any questions, or would like to learn more about FERN, please get in touch with our team at fern@bsl.org.au
Ready to start the journey?
Sign up for a free online workshop today and take the first step toward financial confidence.
Upcoming FERN workshop dates
Develop the knowledge, skills, and habits to create manageable budgets that works for you.
Read event detailsNow more than ever, we are vulnerable to scams. This workshop explains what a scam is and how to spot one. We will discuss how to protect yourself against scams and what your rights and responsibilities are when it comes to scams. We will explore the common types of scams that we might encounter.
Read event detailsThey say a goal is a dream plus a plan. This workshop is about how to create SMART financial goals and how to reach them. For financial wellbeing, it starts here.
Read event detailsSome people say, “never spend money you don’t have,” and many find this is impossible. How can we use credit wisely? By being well informed, which is what you’ll be when attending this workshop.
Read event detailsIt takes more than cash coming in to build a budget – it takes building our knowledge, considering our attitudes, developing our skills and committing to habits. You will be well on your way to having your own manageable budget by the conclusion of this workshop.
Read event detailsThey say a goal is a dream plus a plan. This workshop is about how to create SMART financial goals and how to reach them. For financial wellbeing, it starts here.
Read event detailsIt takes more than cash coming in to build a budget – it takes building our knowledge, considering our attitudes, developing our skills and committing to habits. You will be well on your way to having your own manageable budget by the conclusion of this workshop.
Read event detailsThey say a goal is a dream plus a plan. This workshop is about how to create SMART financial goals and how to reach them. For financial wellbeing, it starts here.
Read event detailsBank on knowing the basics! This workshop is all about choosing the right bank and accounts for you, understanding how banking products work and how to manage your finances safely online.
Read event detailsIt takes more than cash coming in to build a budget – it takes building our knowledge, considering our attitudes, developing our skills and committing to habits. You will be well on your way to having your own manageable budget by the conclusion of this workshop.
Read event details
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