Consumers, small businesses handed nearly $60,000 compensation, seminar next week

Nearly 90 complaints were made to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority from consumers and small businesses about banks, credit and insurance organisations, as well as groups giving investment, financial, and superannuation advice.

However, research done by the AFCA suggests fewer than one in two people with concerns about financial firms lodge complaints, and the organisation is travelling to over 80 regional communities across Australia.

The financial fairness checks roadshow will visit Orange on Thursday at Orange Central Square from 9am to 7.30pm.

Offering face-to-face financial complaint guidance for the first time since its November 2018 launch.

AFCA will also use the event as an opportunity to better understand the financial issues faced by people in Orange and the Central West.

AFCA chief ombudsman and chief executive officer, David Locke said hearing from regional communities would also help AFCA improve its own processes and services.

"When people run into an issue with their financial provider, many don't know they can actually make a formal complaint and get it fixed," he said.

"If it's something you've felt strongly enough to complain about to your friends and family, chances are you have a case to pursue."

"We're eager to hear from the locals of Orange first-hand about their financial complaints and any issues they've encountered resolving issues with their financial firm.

"These valuable insights will help us reach fair outcomes and drive change across the industry."

He said it was "important" people are confident about bringing financial complaints forward.