Spend the time to save the budget

NOOSA Library Service is helping take the stress out of managing money with its new Dollars Making Sense program.
Enrolments in the second round are now open, and librarian Jane Harding says the program, which is completely free to participants, has been well received.
“Dollars Making Sense can help anyone feeling overwhelmed by their finances to become a financial superhero,” Ms Harding said.
“Participants are seeing changes in their lives after just six months in the program.”
David joined the program to get his finances in order and help him save for his first trip overseas.
“Although I had a job, and was making money, I couldn’t get ahead, and at the end of the pay week, I always had no money,” David said.
I didn’t know how to budget my money, and I never learnt to save. Pretty soon I was racking up a credit card debt, and not going out, because I couldn’t afford to.”
The program paired David with Jim, a volunteer tutor trained in financial literacy. He and David met once a week at Noosaville Library for an hour or so. After a few weeks, David had a good handle on his finances, and had developed a plan to pay off his credit card debt and save for his holiday.
“I’ve never been overseas, and all of my mates are headed to Bali in October. Jim has worked with me to bring my spending under control, putting a little away each week. I’m on track to reach my savings target, and I’m super stoked with myself that I will reach my goal,” David said.
Participants in the Dollars Making Sense program, which is funded via a grant from Financial Literacy Australia, work with trained volunteer tutors at either Noosaville or Cooroy Library.
“The program is relaxed and enjoyable, and participants work at their own pace, covering topics such as budgeting, saving, electronic banking, credit cards and loans, and financial contracts,” Ms Harding said.
To find out more about the program, contact the library on 5329 6555 or libraries@noosa.qld.gov.au to arrange an interview.