Young people today are bombarded by increasing enticements from savvy businesses to spend their own money or influence their family's spending on a wide range of products and services. They are targeted through conventional advertising channels but also more subtle ones such as mobile phones, reality TV shows and the internet. As vulnerable consumers, it's important to give young people the education and tools to make informed choices which will help them manage debt and promotional traps. This is where Hip Pocket comes in!

View the Hip Pocket video here

Hip Pocket is a one day highly interactive and engaging financial education workshop, presented to students in years 10 and 11. Hip Pocket is designed to challenge student's thinking about managing money and the many ways marketers target young people as consumers. Hip Pocket provides students with skills and tools that enable them to make informed decisions about their spending choices. The workshop complements and supports topics within the Stage 5 Commerce; English and Mathematics curricula.

Hip Pocket workshops are facilitated by trained YWCA NSW staff and Mentors. These Mentors are volunteers, drawn from a broad range of business backgrounds in the local community, who support students with the workshop activities. In addition to this, Mentors share their life and work experiences and emphasise the importance of managing money and expectations.

Hip Pocket was developed by YWCA NSW in partnership with Citi Australia. Please visit the Teachers section if you are interested in this program for your school or the Mentors section if you would like to be involved as a volunteer.

Student Comments:
One thing I will do as a result of attending this workshop is... "start reading products' terms and conditions and find out the hidden messages." Student, Concord High School

The highlight of attending the workshop for me was... "the fun activities and strengthening my skills on budgeting and noticing scams." Student, Shoalhaven Anglican High School. 

Contact us If you would like more information please contact: Rebecca Louie YWCA NSW Youth Programs Manager Phone: 02 9285 6246 Email: hippocket@ywcansw.com.au

Information & Downloads: School Information & Expression of Interest School Registration Form