The Gambling Helpline provides round the clock counselling, support and information to anyone affected by gambling, including family and friends. It can help you manage with crises, relapses, and other personal issues. Interpreters and face to face referrals can be organised when required. The service is free, confidential and non-judgmental.
Gambling Help Online gives people access to counselling and information when they are unable or reluctant to access face to face services. They provide:
- Free 24/7 chat and email counselling; and support services;
- Professional counsellors with expertise in problem gambling;
- A stepping stone for further help, including telephone and face-to-face support; and
- Extensive website content, self-help information and weblinks for additional support.
Please call 1800 858 858 or go to Gambling Help Online for support.
Good Money Stores - Affordable Financial Solutions
What are Good Money Stores?
Good Money Stores are community-based financial service centers that offer a range of products and resources aimed at promoting financial well-being. Our mission is to make financial services more inclusive and affordable for everyone, regardless of their financial circumstances.
Good Money Stores Offer:
- No or Low-Interest Loans: Good Money Stores offer no or low-interest loans to help individuals cover essential expenses, such as household bills, medical costs, or education fees. These loans are designed to be fair and transparent, with no hidden fees or excessive interest charges.
- Referrals to Other Services: Good Money Stores often collaborate with community partners to connect clients with additional support services, such as financial counseling, housing assistance, and employment resources.
Eligibility:
- You earn less than $70,000 gross annual income as a single or $100,000 gross annual income as a couple or person with dependants
OR
- You have a Health Care Card / Pension Card.
- Have experienced family or domestic violence in the last 10 years.
- You can show that you have the capacity to repay the loan.
No Interest Loans for vehicles requires a credit check.
Good Shepherd Australia New Zealand's "Good Money Stores" program is a valuable resource for individuals and families seeking affordable financial solutions and support. With a focus on fairness, transparency, and community impact, they strive to make a positive difference in the lives of those facing financial challenges.
The Higher Education Loan Program (HELP Loans) assist students to pay for course fees and other services to support them in their studies.
There are four main HELP Loans:
- HECS-HELP
- FEE-HELP
- SA-HELP
- OS-HELP
Eligibility for each HELP Loan differs depending on your circumstances. Application forms are only available through your education provider, who will assess your eligibility.
As this is a loan, it will be repayable when your earning capacity reaches the compulsory repayment threshold.
Visit the Study Assist website for further information or contact them via the online 'contact us' form below.
The Home Equity Access Scheme: Enhancing Your Retirement with a Voluntary Loan
The Home Equity Access Scheme provides older Australians with the opportunity to supplement their retirement income through a voluntary, non-taxable loan offered by the Australian Government. This scheme requires utilizing the equity in Australian real estate as collateral for the loan. To determine your eligibility and estimate the loan amount, you can utilize the calculators available here. If you have a Centrelink online account, access the calculators through your account for a more precise estimate.
Once you have identified the loan amount you can borrow, you have the flexibility to choose how you receive the funds. Options include:
Fortnightly Amount: Receive the loan as regular payments over time.
Lump Sum Advance: Opt for an upfront payment of the loan as a lump sum.
Combination: Select a combination of both fortnightly amounts and an advance lump sum.
Repayment of the loan, along with interest and legal costs, is required to be made to the Australian Government. For more details on repayment options, please refer to the information provided on the website.
By exploring the Home Equity Access Scheme, you can enhance your retirement funds and make informed decisions about securing your financial future.
A help-line for consumers that provides advice on the following:
- Home building and or contents insurance
- Consumer credit insurance
- Life insurance
- Funeral insurance
- Pet insurance
- Income protection insurance
- Superannuation related insurance
- Travel insurance
- Motor vehicle insurance (other than CTP)
- Debts to insurance companies in relation to motor vehicle accidents
For further information call 1300 663 464 or visit the website
Current hours: Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 12.30pm.
There are many different phone providers and mobile plans on offer, and choosing the right one that suits your needs can be difficult.
The ACCC website provides information on how to understand different plans, and things to consider when you are shopping for mobile phones and services. The website also provides information about consumer rights and guarantees, and how to make a complaint if you have a problem with your mobile phone service.
Visit the website, or contact ACCC via the link below.
Financial education resource.
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MoneyMinded is a comprehensive financial education program designed to assist individuals in enhancing their financial well-being and making informed decisions regarding money management. This program is available free of charge and allows participants to progress at their own pace. It consists of eight interactive online activities, each covering essential financial topics. These activities include:
Goals: Setting financial goals and developing strategies to achieve them.
Saving and Spending: Exploring effective saving techniques and smart spending habits.
Money Planning: Creating a personal budget and managing income and expenses.
Everyday Banking Options: Understanding different banking services and selecting suitable options.
Different Ways to Pay: Exploring various payment methods and understanding their implications.
Bills: Managing and organizing bills efficiently to avoid late payments.
Types of Paperwork: Understanding important financial documents and their significance.
Credit and Credit Cards: Learning about credit, credit cards, and responsible borrowing.
Loans and Credit Reports: Exploring different types of loans and understanding credit reports.
Debt Recovery Plan: Developing strategies to manage and overcome debt challenges.
When Paying is Difficult: Seeking assistance and exploring options during financial hardship.
MoneyMinded is committed to empowering individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to improve their financial well-being and achieve their financial goals.
Moneysmart helps all Australians take control of their money and build a better life with free tools, tips and guides. MoneySmart was created by the Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC), the Australian Government's corporate regulator.
Moneysmart has information about managing your money and reducing debt. It provides tools and resources to help you do this such as a budget planner.
Financial counselling services.
Call: 1800 007 007
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Financial counselling provides valuable guidance in managing your debts and regaining control of your finances. When you contact the helpline, you can receive advice on various aspects, including:
Understanding Your Financial Situation: Gain a clear understanding of your financial position through comprehensive assessment and analysis.
Debt Prioritization: Learn how to prioritize your debts effectively, helping you make informed decisions on which debts to address first.
Exploring Options: Understand the advantages and disadvantages of different debt management options available to you. This may include loan repayment strategies, negotiating with creditors, exploring bankruptcy options, and more. Remember, there are always alternatives to consider.
Rights and Responsibilities: Learn about your rights and responsibilities regarding credit and debt, empowering you to make informed choices.
Accessing Additional Support: Discover how to access other essential services you may require, such as legal services, crisis food and accommodation services, and health services.
The National Debt Helpline is a not-for-profit, community-based service dedicated to supporting individuals in Australia facing financial difficulties. Their knowledgeable and compassionate team is ready to assist you.
To discuss your situation or seek assistance, please call 1800 007 007 or send a message through their website.
Remember, financial counselling is a confidential and independent service designed to help you regain control of your financial well-being. Don't hesitate to reach out for support.