Millions of Australians are starting the year in debt and almost 90 per cent are stressed about money, the Salvation Army says.
The prominent charity says more than 9.7 million Australians have started 2026 in debt, and 89 per cent feel equally or more stressed about the state of their finances compared to last year.
The organisation's national survey also found 45 per cent felt pressure to spend more than they could afford, whether out of embarrassment about their financial situation, or cultural and social expectations.
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A total of 24 per cent of respondents found it difficult to create a budget, while 20 per cent struggled to prepare a tax return.
Of those starting the year owing money, 52 per cent said they had credit card debt, and 26 per cent had "buy now, pay later" debt.
Silence around money was also an issue for many.
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The survey found 23 per cent never spoke to family or friends about their finances, while 32 per cent felt "uncomfortable" doing the same.
Kristen Hartnett, the Salvation Army's head of Moneycare, said the research showed Australians are carrying heavy financial burdens, often in silence.
The Salvos offer a free and confidential financial counselling service, Moneycare, which the organisation said offered more than 48,000 sessions last financial year.
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"Financial counselling is free, confidential and incredibly effective — but many people don't realise it exists," Hartnett said.
There are other options for free financial counselling as well, with the federal government providing the National Debt Helpline for those struggling with finances, as well as targeted services for rural Australians, small business owners, and Indigenous Australians.
Find out more information about free financial counselling on the Australian Financial Services Authority website.
"You are not alone, and there is no shame in reaching out," Hartnett said.
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