You might think the remoteness of Arnhem Land communities could shield people from the financial woes of the wider world, but this isn’t the case.
“It's something really satisfying and rewarding to know that people in debt, when they don't know where to go and what to do, turn to us for help.”
That’s how Anglicare Financial Counsellor Monique Achterberg describes the impact of her organisation’s work in the Arnhem Land communities that she flies to on MAF planes.
Monique is part of the team working in Australia’s Northern Territory, bringing financial counselling and education to remote communities accessed by air from MAF’s base at Gove Airport in Nhulunbuy.
“Our work covers a whole range of things,” she said.
“We help people with a whole range of financial problems, from those who get locked out of their bank accounts, to helping families access superannuation funds and dealing with debts.
“Dealing with banks and financial services can be quite daunting for our clients.”
Beyond the money worries that can affect any household, some people in Arnhem Land have been targeted by payday lending schemes or mobile phone plans that are unsuitable for their location or financial situation.
Among its wide portfolio of community services, Anglicare NT runs the Money Support Hub in East Arnhem Land, which supports people with money problems, including those dealing with debt collection.
“In the worst cases, debt collectors can cause significant stress,” said Simone Pettiford, outgoing Anglicare NT Regional Operations Manager.
A significant role of Anglicare NT’s financial wellbeing services is to share skills on how to navigate modern financial systems, such as online banking, and manage their money.
“We help with financial awareness,” said Monique. “We help to empower people, so they have better knowledge and understanding of money and how to use it.
MAF has a clear dedication and commitment to the region, which we share
Anglicare NT’s Money Support Hub works across East Arnhem Land, with staff flying out to remote communities on a regular roster.
The Money Hub will sometimes charter MAF flights, particularly in the wet season when roads become impassable, but MAF’s shuttle service provides a convenient and cost-effective way for financial counsellors to reach their clients.
“We feel safe flying with MAF,” said Monique. “And one thing I really like is that some pilots do the safety briefing in Yolngu Matha (the Yolngu language). That really helps Yolngu people to understand what’s happening.”
“MAF has a solid reputation with our organisation,” said Simone Pettiford. “For us, it is a safe and reliable service, and the cost is not prohibitive. MAF has a clear dedication and commitment to the region, which we share.”
