The state government is supporting thousands of Victorians doing it tough, including those in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, through free access to financial counselling services.
Consumer Affairs Minister Gabrielle Williams announced an extra $15 million will support key financial counselling services for people who are experiencing financial hardship due to mortgage or rental stress.
Consumer Affairs Victoria will open the funding round in July to expressions of interest from not-for-profit organisations that provide financial counselling services.
Ms Williams said these free financial counselling services will help families across the state as the cost of living pressure continues.
“Financial counselling can make a real difference when the bills start to pile up, and because of our investment thousands more Victorians will be able to access free and confidential advice through their local financial counselling provider,” she said.
The Financial Counselling Program – delivered through Consumer Affairs Victoria – supported almost 19,000 Victorians last financial year, and an additional 3,806 people affected by family violence.
Financial counsellors provide a range of support to help people get their finances back on track, including working out payment plans and negotiating with creditors and insurers.
Victorians can find their closest financial counselling provider by contacting the National Debt Helpline at ndh.org.au or calling 1800 007 007.
