Understanding Financial Abuse: Recognising the Signs and Knowing Where to Turn

Written by Steve Landers & Shara Cox

Financial abuse is one of the most insidious and least visible forms of control - and it can happen to anyone. At our firm, we’re committed not only to supporting our clients’ financial wellbeing, but also to raising awareness about risks that can undermine it.

Whether it occurs in the context of elder abuse, family violence, or intimate relationships, financial abuse often leaves victims without access to their own money, without control over financial decisions, and in some cases, without the ability to leave unsafe situations

What Does Financial Abuse Look Like?

Financial abuse can take many forms. Some common signs include:

  • Being denied access to your own bank accounts or financial records

  • Unexplained changes to a will, power of attorney, or asset ownership

  • Someone else controlling your spending or using your money without permission

  • Pressure to sign documents or make financial decisions you don’t fully understand

  • A family member or partner insisting on managing your finances but refusing to provide transparency

For older Australians, financial abuse may come from within the family, such as an adult child misusing an enduring power of attorney or coercing access to superannuation or assets. In intimate relationships, it may be part of a broader pattern of coercive control.

Why It Matters in a Professional Context

As accountants and financial professionals, we are sometimes in a position to notice red flags, particularly when a client’s financial behaviour or access patterns suddenly change. While we are not legal or crisis response professionals, we take this responsibility seriously and will always encourage clients to seek support when something doesn’t feel right.

We also encourage open conversations - especially around major life changes like retirement, estate planning, relationship transitions, or handing over financial control. Everyone deserves the right to make informed decisions about their money, free from pressure or manipulation.

Where to Get Support

If you or someone you know may be experiencing financial abuse, help is available. In Victoria, The Orange Door provides free, confidential support for people experiencing family violence, including financial abuse.

They can help you access:

  • Safety planning

  • Legal and financial counselling

  • Emergency support and referrals

  • Family violence specialists

You can contact The Orange Door by visiting orangedoor.vic.gov.au

 A Safe, Supportive Space

We understand that raising concerns about financial abuse can be difficult. If you ever need to discuss something privately, or you're unsure about a financial situation, please know we are here to support you with care, confidentiality, and access to the right referrals when needed.

Jenni Anderson