Game changers happen all the time, sometimes they are big and obvious and other times they might be small, but have impact. Can you think of some game changes you have seen in your time working as or with financial counsellors and financial capability workers?   How about things like the Diploma of Financial Counselling (that did not exist 30 years ago), the hard fought battle for consumer protections in Buy Now Pay Later products, for profit services improving their hardship practices.

What about the game changes you may have had with your clients? That bill waiver that gave them the breathing space to pay off other debts, the advocacy for a reduced interest rate which meant they could retain their mortgage and their house, the successful grant application for a new fridge to store their food and medication. The feedback a client gave you about how they were able to successfully advocate for themselves after an appointment and them telling you about the difference you made in their lives which reminded you of why you do what you do.

There might even be workplace game changers - the change in processes that meant being able to support more people sooner, the change in technology that made it easier to submit information to creditors, the networking event where you learnt something that you could use to support lots of people in the future, your professional supervisor who gave you skills and confidence to do the important work you do.

Game changes are everywhere. Sometimes we have to look to see them, but they are there.

We hope you can join us at the conference where we will learn and hear about all sorts of game changers that we hope will be a game changer for you and the people you support too.

We look forward to seeing you there!

We welcome submissions from anyone with an interest in financial counselling and consumer issues, including financial counsellors, researchers, industry, regulators, community workers, policy makers, students, and other experts who are interested in sharing best practice, research findings, critical reflections or case studies.  

Submissions should align with the Game Changers conference theme and the financial counselling sector. This could include, but is not limited to:

• Changes to regulations and codes, or new industry bodies that have had an impact on customer outcomes, or consumer protections (i.e. codes of practice).
• Enhancing service delivery through technology, i.e. harnessing innovative tools with the capability to transform and optimise work processes.
• A capacity building project which has revolutionised a process, team or way of working.
• A research project which has redefined the way we undertake financial counselling service delivery.

This year SAFCA wants to shine a light on:

• Homegrown: members and stakeholders from SA and NT.
• Lived experience: those who are using the service, are involved in its development or shaping of outcomes.
• Hands on skills: content that is useful and beneficial to conference attendees and clients in financial hardship, now.

Haven’t presented or spoken at a Conference before?

Don’t let that stop you from expressing your interest. We can work with you to develop a presentation or match you on a panel or in a group. We can use technology to record a video and play it on the day - we are flexible! Please email safca@safca.org.au with any questions you may have, and we will get in touch.

The closing date for this form is Friday 16 May 2025.