I want to share the findings of my research thesis which was submitted last year 2023.

The thesis investigates financial wellbeing among East Kimberley Indigenous people ('mob') in a hybrid economy blending state, market, and customary sectors. Fieldwork at six sites involved interviews with 16 service providers, 10 yarning circles with 38 Indigenous participants, and 12 one-on-one interviews.

Key findings reveal barriers to financial wellbeing, notably the absence of a savings culture, stemming from socio-economic factors like low education and intergenerational trauma. Infrastructural challenges and cultural values further hinder effective money management within the hybrid economy.

Strategies to enhance mob's financial wellbeing must consider the interaction between the three sectors. While the customary sector offers strengths, challenges like humbugging conflict with contemporary money management approaches. Thus, mob must navigate pathways between sectors.

Contemporary money management strategies are beneficial but must complement cultural practices. Recognizing the influence of customary activities is crucial. The tension between a 'saving culture' and a 'culture of savings' within the hybrid economy is central to improving mob's financial wellbeing.

The research aims to aid policymakers, financial counselors, and service providers by elucidating the link between money management strategies and cultural practices. It advocates for culturally sensitive solutions and financial education training blending Indigenous traditions with contemporary approaches. This approach aims to equip providers and trainers with more effective programs tailored to mob's needs.