Money Talks That Actually Make Sense
We started hylolurauno because budgeting advice felt too robotic and disconnected from daily life
Back in 2019, I was sitting with a friend who'd just received the standard financial counseling spiel. She looked more confused than when she'd walked in. That's when it hit me — people don't need complex formulas. They need someone who gets what it's like to juggle rent, groceries, and still want to enjoy a coffee out occasionally.
How We Got Here
The Ballarat Beginning
Started with a laptop and a handful of clients who wanted budget help without the judgment. We met at cafes, walked through their actual spending, and figured out what worked for their lives — not some textbook scenario.
Word Spread Quickly
Turns out lots of people were tired of cookie-cutter advice. We expanded our workshops and brought on Caspian Thornewell, who'd spent years helping families navigate financial pressure without making them feel inadequate.
Digital Shift
The pandemic changed everything. We moved online and discovered something unexpected — people were more honest about money struggles when they weren't sitting across a desk. Our webinars became real conversations.
Where We Are Now
We've worked with over 800 individuals and families across Victoria. Our programs run quarterly, and we keep group sizes small because budget strategies work best when they're tailored to actual circumstances.
What Guides Our Work
Plain Language
Financial jargon creates barriers. We explain concepts the way you'd talk to a friend over lunch — clear, direct, and without pretending everything's simple when it's not.
Reality-Based Methods
Your budget needs to account for the fact that life happens. Cars break down. Kids need sports fees. We build flexibility into every strategy rather than pushing rigid systems that fall apart.
No Shame Zone
Everyone's made money decisions they'd rather forget. We focus on moving forward with practical adjustments instead of dwelling on past choices. Progress beats perfection every time.
Our Teaching Approach
We don't lecture. Our programs are built around your actual financial situation, with tools you can adapt as circumstances change. Most people know what they should do with money — they need help figuring out how to actually do it.
- Small group sessions limited to 12 participants so everyone gets individual attention
- Practical worksheets you'll actually use after the program ends
- Follow-up check-ins at 3 and 6 months to adjust strategies as needed
- Real examples from people who've faced similar financial challenges