The new year is a good time to reflect, reset, and focus on what matters most. Like many of you, I tend to be skeptical about New Year’s resolutions. This year, instead of making personal promises I might not keep, I want to share ICAN’s resolutions for 2026. These are practical commitments based on what we have learned and where we are going.
Resolution 1: Stronger integration for better client outcomes
In 2025, we worked on reducing client wait times and improving how our financial counselling and financial capability services work together. We saw real progress, with shorter waitlists and better teamwork. In 2026, we will keep strengthening our services, processes, and systems so clients get support that is more seamless, timely, and effective.
Resolution 2: Whole-of-organisation responses to key issues
Last year, we set up ICAN Grow, which brings research, advocacy, communications, and business development into one team. In 2026, Grow will help us respond to key issues across the whole organisation, such as scambling, financial wellbeing in prison, and First Nations workforce development. This will help us make sure our practice, evidence, and advocacy all work together.
Resolutions 3 and 4: Building and sustaining the workforce
Workforce development is still at the heart of ICAN’s mission. In 2025, we partnered with organisations like HKTC, 54 Reasons, Lutheran Care, South-East Community Links, Winun Ngari, and Financial Counselling Australia through formal agreements. In 2026, we will keep supporting the professionalisation of the financial capability workforce and will source government, corporate, and philanthropic funding for accredited training and professional development.
Resolution 5: Deeper community reach
In 2025, programs like Yarnin’ Energy, Telstra Remediation, and MoneyBusiness helped ICAN become more community focused. This year, we will keep that momentum going by reaching out to more communities and offering financial wellbeing and education programs where they are needed most.
Resolution 6: Aligning our foundations with our future
Finally, we will put into action the changes from the ICAN Board’s review of our vision, mission, and constitution. Since we started in 2007, ICAN has changed a lot, growing from a regional First Nations service in Far North Queensland to a national organisation supporting workforce development and financial wellbeing. Our governance framework needs to reflect these changes.
These resolutions are not just hopes; they are real commitments shaped by our experience, our partners, and our communities. If any of this speaks to you, or if you see ways we could work together in 2026, please get in touch. We are always open to working together to improve financial wellbeing and consumer rights.
Have a great year!
Aaron Davis, ICAN CEO/Managing Director