The legal and social dimensions of financial hardship in Australia: Implications for legal, regulatory and policy frameworks

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Financial hardship, the reduced ability to meet monetary obligations because of loss of employment, illness or disaster, is an increasing problem for both low-income and middle-income Australians. This project is the first in-depth study of the practical operation of Australia’s financial hardship laws, which are designed to protect Australians suffering financial hardship. Major surveys will be undertaken of senior staff of financial dispute resolution schemes, financial counsellors, consumer solicitors and consumer advocates as well as persons suffering financial hardship. The project outcomes will include improvements to dispute resolution involving financial hardship and consumer advisory services, and potential law reform proposals.