Bank of Queensland teaches financial literacy to Top End First Nations students

A major bank has helped dozens of the NT’s First Nations students learn to ‘budget like a boss’.

More than 50 First Nations students at five Top End schools have learned to “budget like a boss” thanks to a series of financial literacy workshops.

Bank of Queensland partnered with the Clontarf Foundation and Stars Foundation’s to deliver the workshops to Year 9-12 students at Palmerston College, Taminmin College, Casuarina Senior College, Dripstone Middle School, and Nightcliff Middle School.

The program comes at a time when young Australians have the lowest levels of financial literacy, with 31 per cent of Australians saying they did not receive a financial education during their childhood.

Casuarina Senior College and Clontarf Foundation students Nathaniel and Jack learn to 'budget like a boss' with the help of Bank of Queensland Qld and NSW state manager Ross Gillam.

BOQ community investment manager Laura Churchill said financial comprehension was key to achieving better financial outcomes.

“Instilling this knowledge early on can equip students with lifelong skills and good money management,” she said.

“BOQ takes pride in our engagement with the communities we serve.

“Through our community partnerships, we’re able to effect meaningful change, while also encouraging our staff to play an active role in these efforts.”

Stars Foundations transitions coordinator Danielle Totham said the students gained practical insights into budgeting, spending, and saving throughout the workshops.

Clontarf Foundation partnerships manager NT Cameron Ilett said the students particularly enjoyed the “activity aspect” of the workshops where the kids had a chance to put theory into practice.

“Lots of great questions were asked and a lot of consideration was put into their own habits and what they want to be saving up for,” he said.

“We’re incredibly appreciative of BOQ’s ongoing support.

“The partnership has enabled some great opportunities and experiences for our students which will benefit them while they are at school and beyond.”