Media Release
18 October 2004
Me and My Money
Over 1.3 million parents in Australia are separated - and if you're one of them - you'll know that separation can be stressful - and expensive.
Dividing the assets, sorting out who pays what and stretching the dollars over two households can be hard to do when you're separating.
Now there's a new booklet to help out. Called Me and My Money, it's been produced by the Child Support Agency with input from parents who've experienced the reality of separation.
General Manager of the Child Support Agency, Catherine Argall said, Me and My Money was full of practical hints and tips that would assist separated parents to manage their finances.
"We recognise it's hard financially and emotionally for everyone - the children, mum, and dad. We want to help parents work through some of these difficult issues.
Me and My Money will help:
- work out where money goes;
- organise a realistic budget;
- choose banking and other financial services;
- encourage savings; and
- pass on good money habits to children.
"Me and My Money can be used by anyone who wants easy-to-follow information about handling their money," Ms Argall said.
"But if your financial problems are serious, it's also worth getting professional advice."
Me and My Money is the second booklet in a 5-part series that is being produced by the Child Support Agency to address the key issues of separation: care of children, finance, personal well-being, new relationships, and dealing with your ex partner. The first booklet Me and My Kids: Parenting From A Distance gives tips and hints to help separated parents build on their relationship with their kids after separation.
Separated parents can call CSA on 131 272 to request a free copy of the booklets. They can also call this number to arrange for a referral to confidential counselling services provided by independent professionals.
Free copies of the booklet and a list of Community Service Providers and counsellors can also be found at the CSA website.Media enquiries:
0434 605 144
media@csa.gov.au
