Consumer Education in Australia Linked to Career Design

Queensland’s Support of Educators and the “MoneySmart”Teaching Materials

Abstract

This research focuses on consumer education in Australia that is linked to career design. The study first reveals what was learned through interviews with people associated with Queensland’s support of educators. Then, by analyzing educator-oriented websites, the study looks at the characteristics of the “MoneySmart” teaching materials. In Australia, “consumer and financial literacy” is situated among the framework provided by the Australian Curriculum. Related to literacy in both career design and life planning, consumer education is slated for young ages. For its eventual usage in classes, educators have been receiving support and teaching materials have been developed. Education in Queensland clearly links curricula, teaching methods, and evaluations. In support of educators, evaluation materials are created with potential issues and suggested answers, support materials for learning methods that can help overcome the issues, and evaluation criteria guides. “MoneySmart” consists of 23 teaching materials aimed at preschool children up to 10th graders. These are organized according to the themes of knowledge and understanding, competence, and responsibility and enterprise. Further, resources related to both career design and life planning are included in the Teaching section.