Where to find help

If you’re in financial difficulty, we recommend contacting a financial counsellor.

Financial counsellors offer free, independent and confidential services to help you get back on track and discuss your options for dealing with unmanageable debt. 

To speak with a financial counsellor contact the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007. This free hotline is open from 9:30am to 4:30pm Monday to Friday. There are also more tools and resources available online on the National Debt Helpline website.

Video: where to find help

How a financial counsellor can help

Financial Counsellors can offer help and guidance in the following areas:

Managing your debts

• work out what you can afford to pay
• negotiate payment terms
• prioritise your debts
• know your rights

Explaining your options

• apply for government benefits or emergency assistance
• request a hardship variation
• connect you with support services
• temporary relief
• debt agreement
  • help decide if this is the best option for you
• bankruptcy
  • explain how bankruptcy could affect you
  • help you apply

What to expect when you contact a financial counsellor

When you call the National Debt Helpline you will speak to a trained financial counsellor who can help assess your situation and provide you with free advice to help you move on.

If your matter is more complex, they can refer you to your closest financial counselling service to see a financial counsellor in your local area.

Financial counsellors work in various community organisations and are all:

• free
• qualified
• confidential
• impartial
• non-judgemental
• respectful

Other support services

If you need to talk to someone about other issues you are experiencing, there are many personal help services available to you.