Economy Wise + Budget Smart is a course designed especially to help women take control of their finances through every stage of life. It is an Office for Women (Queensland Department of Local Government, Planning, Sport and Recreation) initiative presented by Learning Network Queensland (LNQ) and has already been enthusiastically received by participants at many LNQ centres across Queensland.
Jenny Winn, Chief Executive Officer of LNQ is delighted with the program. "The non-threatening and tailored approach that we can use with small groups means that the students get so much out of the course. Women from every income group, mothers working at home, all different industries and education levels participate, and they all find it rewarding. They learn life skills that will benefit them regardless of their background."
The free 20-hour course is designed to appeal to women - it is presented in small group situations with no hard sell and focuses on useful information and explanations of money matters, from savings and budgeting through to investments.
It covers spending patterns, debt management, credit cards, financial planning, tax, property, shares, superannuation and the changes in life that affect your finances.
Participants say that taking part in the program has given them confidence to manage their money better and most of them plan to make some changes in the way they handle their money.
Students of the course have responded very positively, speaking of new confidence, new knowledge, and of now putting in place good money management practices. Ms Winn noted that "One group even reported forming their own trust, investing either one or two thousand dollars in the real market. This was after investing 'play money' and doing well."
This program is not running at the moment, but depending on funding arrangements, it may run again in the near future.
For more information, contact Learning Network Queensland on 07 3225 8908, or visit their website at www.lnq.net.au.