Financial literacy and inclusion - Corporate Responsibility

Financial literacy and inclusion

ANZ is using its resources and expertise to build the financial knowledge, skills and confidence of our communities, particularly amongst the most vulnerable.

What is financial literacy?

Financial literacy is the ability to make informed judgements and effective decisions about the use and management of money. It's an essential skill for functioning in modern society and is becoming increasingly important to the long-term wellbeing of individuals and the community.

What is financial inclusion?

Financial inclusion aims to address financial exclusion, which is the lack of access to appropriate low-cost, fair and safe financial services from mainstream providers. Often it is the most vulnerable members of our community who are most at risk of financial exclusion.

How are they linked?

ANZ's research has shown a strong correlation between financial literacy and socioeconomic status. The most disadvantaged people also tend to be those with the lowest levels of financial literacy. Therefore, financial literacy and inclusion go hand in hand for ANZ: by building programs that address financial literacy, we promote financial inclusion at the same time.

What are we doing about it?

ANZ's approach to addressing financial literacy and inclusion has involved consulting with community partners to develop programs that target education and assistance to the most vulnerable members of our society. Find out more about our approach.

ANZ has initiated groundbreaking ongoing research into Adult Financial Literacy, Causes of Financial Difficulty and Financial Exclusion. All our commitments in financial literacy and inclusion are informed by this research. Find out more about our research.

In partnership with some of the most trusted community organisations in Australia and New Zealand, ANZ has developed a number of programs that address issues of financial literacy and inclusion. Find out more about our programs:

MoneyMinded - an adult financial literacy education program.
Saver Plus - a matched savings program for people on low incomes.
Progress Loans - a program offering small loans to people on low incomes.
MoneyBusiness - a program to improve levels of financial literacy in Indigenous communities.

Action on financial literacy and inclusion doesn't only help the community - it helps ANZ too. Find out why.