The UQ Business School, at The University of Queensland, has thrown its support behind a community service project aimed at improving the standard of adult financial literacy in Australia.
The School is coordinating the project and donating its services and facilities at its state-of-the-art CBD venue. The project involves designing and delivering a tuition program through a series of weekly workshops with the objective to better equip ordinary Australians to manage and control their financial circumstances.
Head of the UQ Business School, Professor Tim Brailsford said the School was proud to provide support to such a worthwhile and important initiative.
"The program we are involved in is a small, but significant, step in providing a pathway for individuals from all walks of life to gain a better understanding and control over their financial situation," he said.
"Our decision to become involved and provide some leadership in the area reflects a sense of social responsibility and we are prepared to assist the community to gain greater control over their lives."
Financial literacy has become something of a buzzword over the past 12 months with the federal government initiating a $5 million National Consumer and Financial Literacy Foundation.
According to the facilitator, Ron Skelly, the current turn of economic events makes the need for financial awareness within the general community all the more important.
"Few would argue that given our extremely high level of consumer debt and the vulnerability this represents, there will be considerable pitfalls and difficulties ahead for the individual," he said.
"Therefore, the need for improving general adult financial capability could not be greater or more compelling."
Boasting over ten years of running his own management consultancy firm, Mr Skelly said the program will take the form of ten weekly training workshops.
Starting on 8 April, topics covered will include financial responsibility, identifying risk and demystifying financial services as well as taxation, superannuation and social security law.
The program is open to all comers with a minimal charge for cost recovery set at $25 per session or $200 for the entire course.
Tuition will be delivered in the School's downtown facility in the Brisbane CBD.
For more information download the Financial Literacy Brochure or contact Fiona Sutton at UQ Business School Downtown, by phone 07 3346 7111 or email finlit@business.uq.edu.au.
Media enquiries:
Cathy Stacey
Marketing Development Manager
Phone (07) 3365 6179
Mobile 0434 074 372
Fiona Sutton
Mobile 0423 637 699
Email media@business.uq.edu.au
