Hoops 4 Wealth delivers real financial gains for First Nations people in the Northern Territory

A new report ‘Building financial capability and resilience for low‑income people in the Northern Territory’ delivered through a partnership between Hoops 4 Health and the Brotherhood of St. Laurence shows that approaches shaped by First Nations leadership, local knowledge and strong relationships are helping participants build confidence, develop practical money skills and take steps toward long‑term financial resilience. 

“Hoops 4 Wealth is helping people on low incomes in far‑reaching communities across the Northern Territory to manage their money better, save and work towards their goals, and learn about financial rights and responsibilities. In many ways, the program is unique. At the heart of it is the understanding that financial wellbeing is underpinned by emotional strength, cultural connection and community resilience,” said Timmy Duggan, CEO and Founder of Hoops 4 Health. 

The report, authored by Dr Dina Bowman, Dr Margaret Kabare and Ms Elaine Nungarrayi Williams, found that Hoops 4 Wealth delivered real and practical change. Participants reported managing money more effectively between payments, distinguishing between wants and needs, saving more consistently and encouraging their families and friends to save as well. 

The program recognised the importance of cultural obligations and supported participants to navigate responsibilities to family, community and themselves. It also helped people understand key financial rights and responsibilities, including tax, superannuation, banking and how to avoid scams. By acknowledging the past and ongoing impacts of structural and systemic racism, the program created space for trust, reflection and resilience. 

The program works because it is First Nations led. It understands real‑life pressures, avoids judgement and celebrates First Nations success. Facilitators are trusted and respected, and learning happens together in a supportive environment. 

“The Hoops 4 Wealth program builds financial capability, wellbeing and resilience. Programs like this one provide a promising path toward economic self‑determination,” said BSL’s Dr Dina Bowman, co‑author of the report. 

“First Nations‑led financial literacy initiatives can be powerful vehicles for social justice and long‑term change across remote and urban communities in the NT,” said Timmy Duggan. 

“We know that when you invest in First Nations‑led solutions, when you trust communities to lead their own healing, transformation happens. We appeal to the Government to invest in voluntary, culturally responsive programs that actually work — programs designed by mob, for mob.” 

About Hoops 4 Health 

Hoops 4 Health is a First Nations‑owned and led organisation that uses sport, culture and community connection to strengthen health, wellbeing and leadership across the Northern Territory. Founded by Timmy Duggan, Hoops 4 Health delivers programs that empower young people and adults through culturally grounded learning, mentoring and skill‑building. The organisation works in urban, regional and remote communities, creating safe and supportive spaces where people can grow, connect and thrive. 

About the Brotherhood of St. Laurence (BSL) 

The Brotherhood of St. Laurence is a social justice organisation working alongside people experiencing disadvantage to build a fairer and more compassionate Australia. Through research, advocacy and community programs, BSL partners with communities, governments and organisations to create lasting change. 

The BSL report along with the expansion of the Hoops4Wealth program was funded by the Department of Social Services. 

Bridie Riordan, BSL Media & Communications Manager  
0491 159 256 
[email protected]