Financial and Consumer Rights Council (FCVic) is the peak body and professional association for financial counsellors in Victoria, Australia. They provide free, independent, and non-judgemental information, advice, advocacy, and support to individuals experiencing or at risk of financial difficulty. Financial counsellors are trained to assist with a range of financial issues and empower clients to make informed choices about their financial situation. FCVic works with various stakeholders, including government agencies, banks, utilities, and debt collectors, to improve approaches to financial difficulty for vulnerable Victorians.
Originally established in 1978 as the Financial Counsellor’s Association of Victoria, FCVic has evolved over the years to become a leading advocate for consumer rights and financial counselling standards. Through their advocacy work, FCVic has contributed to the professionalization of the financial counselling sector in Australia and played a key role in developing national standards for the profession. With over 400 members, including financial counsellors, students, and organizations, FCVic continues to grow and support its members through regional and statewide networks, as well as case-specific working groups.
FCVic is committed to good governance and ensuring that it remains focused on its purpose of delivering quality professional development to its members and providing policy advice to governments. The organization’s dedication to supporting vulnerable consumers and addressing systemic social issues is evident in its long history of advocacy, resource development, and strong community engagement. FCVic’s work has led to an increase in the number of financial counsellors in Victoria and the creation of valuable resources to assist individuals facing financial hardship.