Managing money can feel harder during times of change, such as leaving the ADF, changes in income, health problems or family stress. Learning a few budgeting skills can help you feel more confident and more in control of everyday money. 

Budgeting does not have to be perfect. It can help you see where your money is going and make small changes that feel manageable. 

Why budgeting can help 

A simple budget can help you: 

• keep track of income and expenses 
• plan for regular bills and unexpected costs 
• reduce financial stress 
• make choices about spending and saving 
• feel more confident managing money when life changes 

Budgeting tools you can use 

There are free, easy-to-use budgeting tools that can help you get started. 

MoneySmart is an Australian Government resource run by ASIC. It includes a budget planner, calculators and practical information about money, debt and bills. 

• a free online budget planner 
• calculators and practical money tools 
• plain English help with money, debt and bills 

You can use the MoneySmart Budget Planner to work out where your money is going and build a simple budget that suits your situation. 

Support during transition or money changes 

Support is available if your money situation has changed because you left the ADF, cannot work as much, or your household income has changed. 

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs has information to help veterans and families manage money after service, including budgeting, income changes and financial support.   

You can read more about sorting your finances on their website. 

You do not have to deal with money stress on your own, especially during transition. 

Financial counselling and extra support 

If budgeting feels too hard or you are under money pressure, free and confidential financial counselling is available. 

Bravery Trust financial counselling 

Bravery Trust offers free, independent, confidential, veteran-specific financial counselling for current and former ADF members and their families. Financial counsellors can help you: 

• understand your financial situation 
• work out which debts and bills to pay first 
• make a money plan that works for you 
• talk through options and next steps 

You can contact Bravery Trust financial counselling for support.   

Services Australia 

Services Australia’s Simple money manager can help you review or create a budget. It is available in multiple languages and includes audio support. 

Services Australia’s Financial Information Service is a free service that can help you understand financial matters and make informed decisions. 

More budgeting tools and support 

National Debt Helpline offers free, confidential and independent financial counselling if you need help with debt, bills or money stress. 

MoneySmart’s Savings goals calculator can help you set a savings goal, work out how much to save and estimate how long it may take to reach your goal.