There’s something powerful about meeting people where they are, not just in theory, but in practice. That’s exactly what Indigenous Consumer Assistance Network is doing with an exciting new approach to community engagement: a dedicated shopfront at Raintrees Shopping Centre.
What started as a simple booth through the Yarnin’ Energy program has grown into something much bigger. Positioned in the heart of the shopping centre, the original setup connected with community members in a real and immediate way, helping people navigate rising energy costs and access support on the spot. The response was clear: when ICAN shows up in everyday spaces, people engage.
Building on that success, the ICAN Thrive team has taken the next step, creating a more permanent, welcoming space where people can drop in and yarn about their financial situation without pressure or judgement.
A Place for Practical Support
The new ICAN Thrive store will offer a wide range of free, confidential services designed to support financial wellbeing in a practical, hands-on way. This includes:
- Financial counselling and debt management
- Help accessing energy rebates and concessions
- Telco remediation support
- Tax help
- Financial goal setting through matched savings
- Assistance with No Interest Loans Scheme (NILS) applications
It’s a one-stop shop for people looking to stabilise, plan, and move forward.
Back to ICAN’s Roots
For ICAN CEO, Aaron Davis, this initiative reflects something deeper than just service delivery; it’s about reconnecting with ICAN’s core philosophy.
“This new approach for ICAN is about the organisation getting back to its roots, by meeting people where they’re at and being more community facing.”
The shopfront will also serve as a shared space for ICAN’s partners, creating opportunities for broader outreach and stronger connections with Cairns’ First Nations community.
A Team Ready to Make a Difference
The energy behind this initiative is just as strong within the team. ICAN Thrive’s, Aimee Williams highlighted the excitement and purpose driving the move:
“The team is really excited about this new venture and meeting our community where they’re at. We’re all here to make a difference and I believe this new location will help facilitate that.”
Watch This Space
The Raintrees shopfront is more than a new location; it’s a signal of where ICAN is heading. More visible. More accessible. More connected to community.
Keep an eye out for the official launch and other outreach initiatives rolling out over the coming year. Because sometimes, the biggest impact starts with simply showing up.