Money smarts

With the rising cost of living on may people's minds, building strong financial skills is more important than ever, and Home Economics classrooms are where it can happen.

The Ecstra Foundation runs 'Talk Money', a free, curriculum-aligned program for students in Years 5–10. Delivered by trained facilitators, it helps young people develop real-world money skills, from budgeting for groceries to understanding household expenses. By combining practical lessons with hands-on activities, students gain confidence in managing money in everyday life.

The Financial Basics Foundation complements this with a range of free, evidence-based resources for students, teachers, and parents. Through lesson plans, online modules, games, and videos, students learn to plan, save, and spend wisely—skills that are increasingly crucial as household budgets tighten.

Both these programs support Home Economics teachers in showing how financial decisions affect daily living, from food choices and shopping to fashion, textiles, and household management, helping students understand the wider impact on wellbeing. Together, these resources give students the tools to navigate the cost of living while making smart, informed choices for themselves and their families.