01 Mar Cashed Up: Free Financial Literacy Program Empowers Aussie Teens
Financial Basics Foundation Launches Cashed Up, supported by Australian Retirement Trust
New Courses Teach Kids Smart Money Skills for the Future
As the school year kicks off, the Financial Basics Foundation is launching Cashed Up, a free financial literacy program designed to equip Australian high school students with essential money skills. Proudly supported by Australian Retirement Trust, the program addresses declining financial literacy rates by offering engaging, real-world financial education.
Despite some financial concepts being included in the national curriculum, there is no standard approach to teaching financial literacy across Australia. Cashed Up fills this gap with four online courses available now and two more launching later this year. These free modules cover everything from managing money and earning income to preparing for adult financial responsibilities.
Research shows that young Australians aged 15 to 24 have some of the lowest financial literacy levels, making structured financial education more critical than ever.
Why Financial Literacy Matters
Katrina Samios, CEO of Financial Basics Foundation, emphasizes the importance of early financial education:
“We know that teaching financial skills early helps young people grow into financially confident adults. By offering these courses for free to schools and community groups, we’re empowering the next generation to make informed financial choices.”
Anne Fuchs, Executive General Manager of Advocacy and Impact at Australian Retirement Trust, highlights the long-term benefits:
“Nearly all Australians (96%) believe financial literacy should be taught in schools. The earlier students start learning about money, the better financial outcomes they’ll have in the future. We hope these courses help young Australians build good habits early so they can benefit from smart financial choices throughout life.”
Cashed Up Modules:
- Level Up Your Money Plan (Year 7): Introduces goal-setting, decision-making, and personal money management.
- Take Charge of Your Spending (Year 8): Encourages students to reflect on their spending habits and attitudes toward money.
- Get Ready to Work (Year 9): Prepares students for employment by exploring different job types and income sources.
- Start Earning (Year 10): Covers taxes, ethical spending, consumer rights, and financial responsibilities in the workforce.
- Build Some Wealth (Year 11): Helps students plan for long-term financial goals and wealth-building strategies.
- Start Adulting (Senior students): Covers essential life skills such as budgeting, renting, buying a car, insurance, and travel planning.
By providing these structured, engaging courses for free, Cashed Up ensures Australian students gain the financial confidence they need for a secure future.
For further information on the research and resources provided by the Financial Basics Foundation, please visit https://financialbasics.org.au/
Main Image: Katrina Samios, CEO of Financial Basics with students
