FSF Codes
Members are required to adhere to FSF's Codes and Guidelines. These also act as a resource to help consumers know what they should expect from a responsible lender.
Only companies who are FSF members or financial mentors may use or promote these Codes.
Responsible Lending Guidelines
When you apply for a loan, your lender has responsibilities to you, including making sure they understand your situation and needs.
Understand what a responsible lender will do to ensure the loan is right for you.
Responsible Borrowing Code
Re-launched in 2019 in conjunction with FinCap, this code covers what consumers should consider before taking out a loan, what to disclose, and what not to do if things go wrong.
Responsible Debt Collection Code
Understand how FSF members go above and beyond what is required in law to action debt collection responsibly.
Responsible Credit-Related Insurance Code
Understand how FSF members who provide credit-related insurance go above and beyond to ensure their policies are sold responsibly.
Micro-Credential (NZQA Level 5) Consumer Credit
In 2023, FSF partnered with education provider Strategi to develop this qualification, the only one of its kind in New Zealand focussed on consumer credit.
The course has been designed for learners to gain comprehensive knowledge and skills to understand, navigate, mitigate risks, and effectively manage consumer credit in today’s financial landscape.
Graduate feedback:
“Our organisation initially registered three staff members to enable us to gauge the value of the course. We found the course very good and relevant to all levels of experience in financial services. We intend to put all of our lending staff through the course of the coming year, approx. 20 staff in total," - Lending Manager, FSF Member
"The course helped to sharpen the focus in various areas of our day-to-day lending. More so, it's almost tailor-made for our lending staff and will be a valuable education tool."
"I sat the Micro Credential to ensure it was fit for purpose and it was something I could encourage my staff into doing for their own self development. I can't run our company forever and they need to be aware of this. You always need to prepare for the next step in your own world as early as possible."
"The course has real value. The biggest plaudit being, we will commit all of our lending staff to undertake as part of their ongoing education and training."
Podcast: Why a course on consumer credit?
Check out this short epidose of the NZA Talk podcast to hear our Executive Director, Lyn McMorran, talk all things Consumer Credit Micro Credential, including why FSF co-developed it, who the course is for and what it covers.