Salvos research shows millions of Aussies are starting new year in debt
- deansimpson7
- 15 hours ago
- 2 min read
BY LAUREN MARTIN
The Salvation Army is using its 2026 Moneycare Week to encourage Australians to do a financial health check and seek help with their finances if they’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed.
The results of a nationwide survey being released by The Salvation Army this week revealed that nearly half of all Australians (44 per cent) will be starting 2026 in debt, and almost nine out of 10 respondents say they feel the same, or more stressed, about their finances this year, compared with last year.*
Moneycare is The Salvation Army’s free and confidential financial counselling service, with financial counsellors assisting people in person across Australia, online and over the telephone. The service also offers free online resources to help people manage their money.
National Moneycare Manager Kristen Hartnett said the new year offers a unique opportunity for people to make positive financial changes in their lives. “Financial counselling is one of Australia’s best kept secrets – through Moneycare, financial counselling is free, confidential and effective, and it can make a huge difference to your situation.
“Whether you need help creating a budget, support getting out of debt, someone to talk to about realistic money plans, or anything in between, Moneycare is here for you. You are not alone, and there is no shame in reaching out for support.”
In the last financial year, Moneycare provided 48,000 sessions of care to over 11,000 people struggling with their finances. It’s hoped that the Moneycare Week media and information campaign will encourage more Australians who are facing financial stress, to connect with The Salvation Army for support.
*A Pureprofile survey for The Salvation Army surveyed 2,005 people in a nationally representative sample size and this has been extrapolated to reflect the general Australian population. Extrapolated numbers are based on the estimated Australian population aged 18 and older, 22,189,796 based on ABS data as seen here
Moneycare Week
At the start of a new year many people think about their finances in light of Christmas spending and the school year dawning. Moneycare Week offers a timely opportunity to share practical tips and resources that help people feel capable and supported.
During the week of 18–24 January 2026, there will be media activity and digital advertising to promote Moneycare Week.
READ MORE: MySalvos Moneycare Toolkit, click here
If you would like to highlight Moneycare Week in your mission expression during January, either physically or digitally, the resources below can help.
Please note: Moneycare has a wide range of resources for the community. Please feel free to share the public-facing Moneycare Financial Resources page with your community: The Salvation Army Moneycare Financial Resources page
