The Multicultural Sudanese Centre (MSC) during the period July to October 2010 conducted a research project funded by Consumer Credit Fund, entitled “Credit Card Spending for Emergent Africa-Australians” to identify issues of credit card debt. Concerns were expressed in the areas of financial loans, scams, telephone, Internet, gas, electricity, Foxtel, home loan, connections and disconnections. The aim was to establish credit card spending patterns for emergent African Australians who have been in Australia for a short-time and have difficulties with language and education.
The research document involves an analysis of case studies on credit card usage and makes recommendations in relation to contracts and obligations.
The project outcome will help Consumer Affairs Victoria, service providers, community organizations, community legal centres, financial Counsellor to carry out future community education/workshops/information sessions. We also hope to raise awareness amongst members of our community to the consumer issues surrounding the use of credit and through this encourage community members in the best use of credit facilities.
Questionnaires were placed on the internet. In a series of community based activities, student volunteers, along with members of the Multicultural Sudanese Centre, asked community members whether they wished to answer questions on their credit card usage. A vast majority of those approached agreed to participate.
A statistical analysis of the responses is set out below for each question. Recommendations arising out of the research findings are included; please click here on Credit Card Spending for Emergent African-Australians to view the research outcomes
Best Wishes
Multicultural Sudanese Centre Inc In person: 12 Holland Court Flemington Vic PH: 03 9376-6513 or 0423945548 E-mail: sudane@sudanesecentre.org.au Web: www.sudanesecentre.org.au
