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  • Image of PALM scheme worker, William Baru and family member
My Money hub

On this page

Welcome to the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme My Money hub 

Working in Australia is a great opportunity to earn money, help your family and plan for your future. Explore this page and take the next step to manage your money and make good choices.

 

Simple ways to save money

Saving money is an important part of your time in Australia. It is important to remember that the cost of living in Australia may be more expensive than in your home country. 

This video has practical tips on how you can prepare to pay for everyday items, protect your savings and reach your future goals.

 

 

Feeling worried about money?

If you feel stressed or worried about money, talk to someone you trust. You can also call the PALM scheme support line on (1800 51 51 31) or email (palm@dewr.gov.au). 

Financial stress is the worry and pressure that can build up when managing money feels hard. 

When money worries stick around, they can make it harder to focus, strain relationships, and lead to tough choices like skipping meals or delaying medical care just to get by. 

Whether you’re falling behind on bills, feeling overwhelmed by debt, or relying on credit to cover everyday costs, it’s something many people experience at different times in life.

Signs and effects

Financial stress feels different for everyone, but some common signs include:

  • impact on work or study
  • physical symptoms such as feeling run-down with headaches, stomach aches or tension in your body
  • struggling to fall asleep, waking up at night or feeling tired no matter how much rest you get
  • constant worrying
  • feeling anxious, frustrated, ashamed, or like you're stuck and don't know what to do next
  • relationship strains.

Visit the Lifeline website to learn how worrying about money can impact you mentally and physically. 

 

Budgeting for everyday living costs

It is important to make a budget and to stick to it.

While you’re living in Australia, you will have everyday costs - some expected and some that may come as a surprise. A realistic budget can help you plan for these costs, manage your money and save while you live and work in Australia.

Money Smart have tips and tools on their website to help you make a budget. 

This video has practical tips on how to budget and make your money last.

 

 

Sending money home safely Money symbol and hand icon

When you send money back home to your family, make sure you protect yourself from scams and extra fees. 

Here are some tips to keep your money safe: 

  • Use trusted money transfer services such as SendMoneyPacific if you send money to your family back home.
  • Check the fees and exchange rates before you send money.
  • Never share your bank details with people you don’t know.
  • Keep your receipts and records in a safe place.
 

Understanding the dangers of gambling 

Gambling and poker machines (or also known as 'playing the pokies') can cause serious harm to your relationships, your money and other important parts of your life. 

Here are some examples of how gambling can be dangerous:

  • You might lose money needed for food, rent, or family.
  • You could feel sad, worried, or stressed.
  • It can lead to arguments with friends or family.
  • You might end up owing money to others.

If gambling is causing problems, ask for help. 

Gambling Help Online can help you or someone you care about understand gambling habits and find ongoing support options that work for you. You can call Lifeline on (1800 858 858) or visit the Lifeline website for more information. 

 

Being aware of money scams

Scams can be hard to see at first and it is important to stay careful. Scams can trick you and take your money. 

Here are some tips to stay safe:

  • Do not share your personal or bank details with strangers.
  • Be careful of emails, texts, or calls asking for money or information.
  • If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
  • Ask someone you trust if you are not sure.

If you think you’ve been scammed, get help straight away. Support is available.

Some PALM scheme workers incur large debts after providing personal information and bank details to scammers.

A guide with advice and resources to support workers who may be affected by scams is available on the PALM scheme website.  

If you become aware of a scam, you can report it on the Scamwatch website. 
 

 

Planning for your future

Superannuation (also called 'super') is a way to save money for when you retire. You can get your superannuation after you stop working in Australia. 

Your superannuation can help you plan ahead for you and your future.

 Here are some tips:

  • Learn about superannuation (retirement savings in Australia) and how it is paid to you.
  • Save money for when you go back home and reach your long-term goals.
  • Think about your goals for yourself and your family.

Find out more information about superannuation on the Superannuation access for PALM scheme workers page.  

 

Additional resources in your language

Gambling and the poker machines

Superannuation

Tax in Australia

Payroll deductions

Need help or have questions?

Your employer can help, or you can call the PALM scheme support service line at (1800 51 51 31) or email (palm@dewr.gov.au) between 8:30 am and 6:30 pm AEDT. If it’s urgent, the support line is open 24/7.