Financial Recovery Education That Actually Sticks

Real strategies for Australians rebuilding after financial setbacks—taught by people who've been there.

Most financial education programs teach theory. We focus on what actually works when you're starting over. Our autumn 2025 cohort brings together practical techniques, peer support, and honest guidance from financial recovery specialists across Sydney and Melbourne.

Join September 2025 Intake

Where Are They Now?

Lachlan Dempsey financial recovery participant

Lachlan Dempsey

Completed program: March 2023 | Follow-up: January 2025

Started our program after a business closure left him with significant debt. Lachlan struggled initially with the budgeting exercises—told us they felt too restrictive. But he kept showing up to group sessions, asked questions, and gradually found his rhythm.

Two-Year Progress

Now runs a small consulting practice with stable income. Cleared 60% of original debt. Recently mentored two new program participants through early stages. Says the peer accountability made the difference.

Siobhan Kavanaugh program participant

Siobhan Kavanaugh

Completed program: July 2023 | Follow-up: February 2025

Joined us dealing with post-divorce financial complexity. Siobhan brought three kids and overwhelming paperwork to her first session. She needed practical systems more than financial advice—ways to track everything without losing her mind.

18-Month Update

Built emergency fund covering four months expenses. Refinanced mortgage on better terms. Started side income stream through freelance work. Reports feeling "actually in control" for first time in years.

What Makes This Different

We've sat through enough financial seminars to know what doesn't work. Here's how our approach compares to typical financial education programs.

Program Element Typical Programs Our Approach
Class Size 50-100+ participants 12-15 participants maximum
Session Format Lecture-based presentations Interactive workshops with real scenarios
Follow-Up Support Optional email support Monthly check-ins for 18 months
Peer Connection Minimal networking breaks Structured peer accountability groups
Material Relevance General financial principles Recovery-specific strategies for debt and rebuilding
Instructor Background Financial advisors and teachers Recovery specialists who've experienced financial setbacks
Location Access CBD venues during business hours Evening sessions in Bankstown with hybrid options
Progress Tracking Self-reported only Structured milestones with personalized benchmarks

The Method Behind the Program

Why Traditional Financial Education Often Falls Short

Most financial courses assume you're starting from stable ground. They teach investment strategies and wealth building when what you actually need is help organizing chaos and stopping the bleeding.

We built this program after watching dozens of people complete financial literacy courses, nod along to solid advice, then return six months later in worse shape than before. The information was fine. The context was wrong.

Financial recovery workshop session with participants

Financial recovery isn't just about knowing what to do—it's about building systems that work when you're exhausted, stressed, and dealing with creditor calls. That requires different teaching methods and genuine understanding of what financial crisis feels like.

Our September 2025 cohort runs for twelve weeks with optional extended support through March 2026. Sessions happen Tuesday evenings at our Bankstown location, with full remote participation available for those outside Sydney.

Real Scenarios

We use actual case studies from past participants. You'll work through messy situations with multiple competing priorities—just like real life.

Flexible Pacing

Some weeks you'll need more time on certain topics. We adjust based on cohort needs rather than racing through a fixed curriculum.

Privacy Protected

All sessions maintain strict confidentiality. You can discuss your actual financial situation without worry about judgment or disclosure.

Your Recovery Timeline

Financial recovery doesn't happen overnight. Here's what realistic progress looks like over the program duration and beyond.

Financial planning and recovery documentation
1

Weeks 1-3: Stabilization

Stop the immediate crisis. We help you prioritize creditors, protect essential accounts, and create breathing room. This phase feels chaotic but establishes foundation for everything else.

2

Weeks 4-8: Systems Building

Develop tracking systems that actually work for your situation. Learn negotiation techniques for debt reduction. Start identifying income opportunities that fit your current constraints.

3

Weeks 9-12: Forward Planning

With immediate fires contained, focus shifts to sustainable recovery. Build emergency reserves, address credit repair, and establish metrics for tracking ongoing progress.

4

Months 4-18: Extended Support

Monthly check-ins help you maintain momentum and adjust strategies as circumstances change. This phase prevents backsliding and addresses new challenges before they become crises.

September 2025 Cohort Opens in June

Limited to 15 participants for our Bankstown location. We'll hold an information session on June 18th, 2025 at 6:30pm for anyone interested in learning more about the program structure and approach.