3 minute read
Bianca Hartge-Hazelman: Changing The Future
Entrepreneur and journalist, Bianca Hartge-Hazelman is passionate about improving the economic wellbeing of women.
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Growing up in a family with money struggles, even more prominent after her parents divorced, had a lasting impact on Bianca and the way she spent money.
An upbringing where food handouts and living with other family members was tough, but motivated her as an adult to provide financial security for her own family and educate her girls on the importance of achieving this for themselves first.
As founder of women’s money publisher Financy.com.au and a scorecard and report on the economic progress of Australian women called the Financy Women’s Index, Bianca has a wealth of knowledge to share with Wise Girls Money Magazine.
How did your company’s purpose come to life?
I was reading too much negative news as a journalist, particularly on the social and economic disadvantages women face compared to men globally, and then looking in her daughter’s eyes and wondering how you can make things better.
As a finance journalist, I made the call in 2016 to focus on reporting about women’s finances and money issues. Being frustrated with negative headlines around the gender pay gap and financial security relating to women, I thought, if I am having trouble as someone whose career is in this field, how distressed are others feeling?
So, in 2017 I developed the Women’s Index, which is a way of measuring the financial progress of women every quarter. Because of this, I have been able to focus on what can be done to change the pace of progress for women, their families and future generations.
Women’s financial progress really matters. If we can better support women in achieving individual progress, then we can help families. This includes men who may desire greater work life balance and ultimately future generations.
What should all women be doing when it comes to their money?
Aim to have money saved in a rainy day fund (A savings buffer)
Always try to limit bad debts (Credit cards)
Believe in yourself and your brain when it comes to your career and making money.
How can women help their children to have a healthy view of finances?
Understand the importance of play and use this as an opportunity to connect with your daughter on what interests them.
Talk about money when you shop or are doing the groceries or even folding the washing etc so that they understand value of things.
Talk about work - what it affords etc.
Start a savings fund for them and talk about it.
Talk about career decisions and break through gender stereotypes so that nothing is impossible. For example talk about being a business owner and/or living a purposeful and financially viable career.
As we all adjust to a new way of life this year, what can we do to protect our future?
Stay mentally healthy - this is really important, particularly if you have lost your job or are struggling with reduced hours.
Review your budget and live within you means.
Apply for government assistance such as Jobkeeper or Jobseeker.
Access your super early if you need it, but understand the impact of doing this and have a future plan for rebuilding it back, if possible.
Deal with debt - talk to the banks about any debts you may have and ask for hardship assistance if you need it such as putting repayments on hold
