Financial issues
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Many people in need of protection come to Australia with few financial resources. They have to rebuild their lives with little money. Many do not know how to manage financial issues such as budgeting, insurance, loans and contracts. This can mean they run up large debts.
They are also vulnerable to exploitation because they do not understand financial and contractual arrangements in Australia. For example, door-to-door salespeople often ask customers to sign contracts on the spot. Many agree to contracts without really understanding the contract. This can result in families struggling to pay large bills.
If they do not pay these debts and bills, this can affect them in the future when they try to access services. Some families get caught in a spiral of debt, because they are ashamed and do not tell people until they are in crisis.
