This study has sought to develop a comprehensive understanding of the financial competence of rural communities in the Pacific and the relationship between the financial competence of those who make financial decisions on behalf of rural households and the wellbeing of their household. The study builds on earlier financial capability studies undertaken in Great Britain, Australia and New Zealand. The focus of the current study is slightly different to earlier, primarily descriptive studies that had sought to establish a baseline measure of financial competence. This study measures financial competence of rural indigenous Fijian villagers and develops a causal model of the relationship between functional literacy (which is often low), financial competence and household wellbeing.