Financial abuse can happen in any relationship, even with people we trust. Whether you’re concerned about a relative or feeling controlled in your own relationship, we are here to support you.
Understanding financial abuse
Financial Abuse happens when someone uses money, or your access to it, to control you. They might do this by:
- Making decisions about your money without asking. This could include taking your money, opening accounts in your name without permission, or preventing you from accessing your own funds.
- Pressuring you or tricking you into giving them money, even if you don’t want to.
- Hiding information about your finances from you. This makes it difficult for you to understand your financial situation and could lead to debt or other problems.
Financial abuse can happen in any relationship, even with people we trust like family members, partners or caregivers.
Whether you’re concerned about an elderly relative or feeling controlled financially in your own relationship, we have resources to support you.
Support for specific situations
Elder financial abuse
Older people who depend on others for daily support can be especially vulnerable to financial abuse. We're here to help.
Family violence and financial abuse
Anyone can be impacted by family violence and financial abuse, there are steps you can take to help protect yourself.
Recognising Financial Abuse
You might feel anxious, pressured, or trapped when it comes to money. Maybe someone tried to control your access to funds, making you dependent on them. These could be warning signs of financial abuse.
Recognising these signs is an important step in protecting yourself.
Unexplained withdrawals
There are unexplained withdrawals or transfers from your bank account.
Feeling pressured
Someone may make you feel pressured to give money or assets to them.
Control
A family member or caregiver is controlling access to your funds
Isolation
You are being isolated from trusted friends or financial advisors who could help
Coercion
You are being coerced to sign contracts or take out a loan, you don’t need or gaining no benefit from.
Debts
You notice debts have been taken out in your name without your knowledge or consent.
Steps you can take to protect yourself from financial abuse
Review your finances
Use your statements to identify any unusual spending on your accounts.
Need to change passwords or PINs?
You can update your e-Banking passwords, or change PINs on debit or credit cards.
Update your contact details
Call 1300 236 344 or visit your nearest branch to make sure your address and phone contact details are up to date.
Seek advice
Always seek independent legal advice before signing any contracts or important documents.
Contact the police
If you are experiencing financial abuse, you can contact the police.
If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
What we can do to help
Establish safeguards
We can put controls in place to limit spending or protect your money.
Regain control of your accounts
We can review access to your accounts, including any third-party authorities or Powers of Attorney.
Tailored support
We will work with you and your circumstances to find appropriate solutions.
Offer private appointments
We can set up private appointments to discuss your concerns confidentially.
Extra Care Team
You can call our Extra Care team who will work with you to understand your situation and help you take steps to protect yourself.
1300 023 583, 8:30 - 5:00pm Mon-Fri (AEST/AEDT)
Help outside banking
1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)
Offering 24/7 support, 1800 RESPECT can help you to make a safety plan.
Moneysmart
When you need assistance to untangle yourself from any debts in your name that aren’t yours.
National Debt Helpline
For free advice on how to manage your debts when you need guidance or need help quickly.
Need to exit this page quickly?
Quick Exit
