Financial Literacy: Australians Understanding Money is a 2007 study of the financial literacy attitudes and behaviours of 7500 Australians, including 553 people aged 12-17. The study found that a majority of young people were interested in increasing their knowledge at school across a range of money issues, including budgeting, saving and managing debt.

Further:

• 84% of young people think it is important to learn more about budgeting
• 72% agreed that saving a small amount regularly from a young age is the most effective savings strategy
• 63% of young people said they have the ability and understanding to invest,
• 13% would consider both risk and return before making an investment decision.

The research associated with Financial Literacy: Australians Understanding Money also identified that 70-90% of young people want to learn more about money issues, including:

• understanding rights and responsibilities (91%)
• saving (90%)
• recognising a scam (88%)
• planning for the financial future (85%)
• budgeting (84%)
• dealing with financial services providers (84%)
• getting information about money (83%)
• managing debt (83%)
• understanding financial language (82%)
• choosing appropriate insurance (80%)
• investing (81%)
• dealing with credit cards (73%)
• ensuring enough money for retirement (70%).