S1E3: It's About Financial Abuse (1:07:03)

In this episode, we delve into a discussion about some pressing issues affecting Australian women today including gender equality, women's financial security, and the relationship between economic abuse and domestic violence. Julie Kun, a recognised expert in financial wellbeing and financial abuse, shares her insights and experiences, examining the enduring gender pay gap and the systemic barriers contributing to women's financial vulnerability. We also explore how entrenched gender stereotypes perpetuate violence against women and exacerbate financial inequality, and the insidious nature of economic and financial abuse. Our conversation touches on the roles financial advisers play in addressing financial abuse, the obligations of employers in fostering inclusive workplaces, and the support services available for victim-survivors. Amidst the challenges, we acknowledge the progress made in raising awareness about financial abuse and offer practical tips for improving financial resilience.   Resources Some listeners may feel emotional distress or discomfort during this episode, and if you or anyone you know needs help, please reach out to services including: AskIzzy.org.au 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) 1800 ELDERHelp Line 1800 353 374 Men’s Referral Service 1300 766 491 MensLine Australia 1300 789 978 NSW Domestic Violence Helpline 1800 656 463 Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service 1800 938 227 QLife 1800 184 527 NSW Sexual Violence Helpline 1800 424 017 National Disability Abuse and Neglect Hotline 1800 880 052 Moneysmart www.moneysmart.gov.au National Debt Helpline 1800 007 007 No Interest Loans Scheme www.nils.com.au   Takeaways Financial advisers play a crucial role in addressing financial abuse and need to be educated on the signs and impacts of economic abuse. Employers have a responsibility to create inclusive workplaces and address economic abuse, as it has a significant impact on the economy and organizations. Support services, such as helplines and financial counsellors, are available for survivors of economic abuse and can provide assistance in navigating financial challenges. Financial institutions have a role to play in addressing financial abuse by implementing measures to protect customers and providing financial assistance to survivors. It is important to support survivors in re-establishing their financial security and provide them with resources and information to make informed decisions. There has been progress in raising awareness about financial abuse, but more work needs to be done to eliminate economic abuse and achieve gender equality. Joining a union, improving financial literacy, and having open conversations about money can make a difference in individuals' financial positions. Julie Kun can be contacted through LinkedIn or via email for further information and support.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting 03:00 Gender Equality and Women's Financial Security 05:51 Julie's Background and Work 09:52 Gender Pay Gap and Financial Insecurity 12:53 Link Between Gender Stereotypes, Violence Against Women, and Financial Inequality 22:05 Red Flags and Coercive Control 28:03 The Intersection of Economic Abuse and Domestic Violence 34:09 The Insidious Nature of Economic and Financial Abuse 35:28 Financial Abuse and the Role of Financial Advisers 36:33 Employer Responsibility in Addressing Economic Abuse 40:09 Creating Inclusive Workplaces 45:30 Support Services for Economic Abuse 49:56 Financial Institutions' Role in Addressing Financial Abuse 52:58 Supporting Survivors in Re-establishing Financial Security 58:07 Progress in Addressing Economic Abuse 01:04:01 Inspiring Women 01:07:20 Addressing Gender Equality and Financial Security 01:09:19 Taking Control of Personal Finances 01:11:26 Connecting with Julie Kun