List of Financial Counselling services.
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PLEASE NOTE: Some of these services may, at times, move to phone based appointments. Please check before booking an appointment.
Financial counselling is a free, independent and confidential service offering support, information and advocacy to anyone experiencing financial hardship.
A Financial Counsellor will look at your overall financial situation and provide you with your options. They can advocate and negotiate on your behalf if needed.
A Financial Counsellor cannot provide investment advice, financial planning, or monetary assistance.
Financial counselling is offered by a range of service providers throughout South Australia via an appointment based service. See locations below for providers in your area.
Alternatively, you can call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 for telephone financial counselling or a referral to a financial counsellor in your area.
The Helpline Service is available from Monday to Thursday between the hours of 9.30 am - 8 pm and Fridays 9.30am - 4.30pm (closed public holidays).
Issues a Financial Counsellor can assist with include:
- Financial rights and responsibilities
- Budgeting and money management
- Applications for hardship
- Debts and debt recovery processes
- Concessions and related entitlements
- Referrals to complementary services
- Insolvency and bankruptcy options
Relationships Australia provides a range of free financial counselling services and support to anyone affected by problem gambling.
Gambling becomes a problem if someone spends more time or money than they can afford to, or if it is having a negative impact on their relationships.
Please contact the Gambling Help Service to speak to a counsellor or make an appointment. You can make an enquiry online through their web site.
After hours call the Gambling Hotline on 1800 858 858
You have the right to have errors on your credit report corrected for free.
Be wary of companies offering to repair or clean your credit report. If there is an error on the credit report, you can have this fixed for free. Information that is correct, even if you don’t like it, can't be removed.
For further information on credit repair and fixing your credit report go to the Moneysmart website or the National Debt Helpline website.
For information on credit scores and credit reports go here.
If you are experiencing financial hardship, and wish to have a free, confidential and independent conversation and access to a free financial counselling service that will consider all your options for dealing with your debt and getting back on track call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 or click on the number below.
Understanding Your Credit Score
Your credit score, often referred to as your credit rating, plays a crucial role in the financial decisions made by lenders and service providers. Whether you're seeking credit, loans, or various services, your credit score is a key factor considered, but not the be-all and end-all. Understanding how it works and managing it wisely can open doors to financial opportunities.
What Influences Your Credit Score:
Your credit score is a reflection of your financial history, primarily based on the information in your credit report. Here's what can impact your credit score:
- Borrowing History: Your credit score takes into account how much credit you've borrowed and how responsibly you've managed it.
- Credit Applications: The number of credit applications you've made can affect your score, as frequent applications may signal financial instability.
- Payment History: Timely payments on credit accounts are essential to maintaining a healthy credit score. Any defaults on payments can have a negative impact.
Accessing Your Credit Report:
To stay informed about your financial standing, you have the right to obtain a free copy of your credit report once a year. If you need it sooner or require multiple copies in a year, there may be a fee. Be cautious of providers requesting payment or your credit card details for this service.
Correcting Errors:
If you suspect inaccuracies in your credit report, you can take steps to rectify them at no cost. Ensuring your credit report is accurate is essential for maintaining a fair credit score.
Resources and Guidance:
For comprehensive information on credit reports, credit scores, and obtaining your report, visit reputable sources such as the Moneysmart website or the National Debt Helpline website. These platforms offer valuable insights to help you navigate the world of credit.
Seeking Financial Assistance:
If you find yourself facing financial challenges, the National Debt Helpline is here to provide free, confidential, and independent advice. Their financial counseling service can help you explore all available options for managing debt and regaining financial stability. Contact them at 1800 007 007.
In the complex world of finance, knowledge is power. Understanding your credit score and how to maintain it can be a key to achieving your financial goals.
If you fall behind on a loan, credit card or bill, a debt collector might contact you.
A debt collector is a person who collects overdue debts. This could be for themselves, or for a lender (such as a bank), service provider or debt collection agency.
Debt collection is legal. The people you owe money to (your creditors) have a right to get it back. But it's not okay to harass or bully you.
If you receive a notice about being taken to court, get free legal advice straight away. If you ignore it, you risk your goods being repossessed and sold.
Go to Moneysmart's website to find out about your rights, what to do and how to get help.
Essentials by AAI, supported by Good Shephard Microfinance and Suncorp Group, provide affordable car and contents insurance options for low income earners who may not be able to afford mainstream insurance policies.
To be eligible:
- Have a Healthcare card, or
- Receive a Centrelink payment, or
- Have an annual household income of approximately $48,000 or less (excluding superannuation)
For more information look at their website, call Essentials by AAI on 1800 429 598 or email contactus@essentialsbyaai.com.au.
Navigating Financial Hardship:
Life can take unexpected turns, and sometimes, managing bills or repayments on loans and debts can become overwhelming. When financial troubles knock at your door, there's no need to feel alone or lost. You have options, and taking action early can significantly impact your financial well-being. If you find yourself struggling to make ends meet, there's a lifeline available – financial hardship assistance.
When facing financial difficulties, it's essential to reach out for help promptly. The sooner you do, the more solutions become available to ease your burden. Here's how you can take the first steps towards relief:
- Contact Your Lender or Service Provider: Many companies, banks, and service providers understand that life's challenges can affect your financial stability. They often have dedicated hardship teams ready to assist you. Get in touch with them to discuss your situation and explore your options.
- Legal Troubles and Debt: If you've received notice of legal action due to debt, don't hesitate to seek free legal advice immediately. Knowledge is power, and legal guidance can help you navigate complex situations.
- Resources and Information: To learn more about requesting financial hardship assistance and understanding your rights, visit reputable sources like the Moneysmart website or the National Debt Helpline website. These platforms offer valuable insights and guidance.
Seeking Professional Assistance:
If you're experiencing financial hardship and need a confidential and independent conversation about your options, consider reaching out to the National Debt Helpline. Their dedicated team is here to help you explore solutions for managing debt and regaining financial stability. You can contact them at 1800 007 007.
In challenging times, remember that support is available. Don't hesitate to reach out, as there are paths to financial relief and a brighter financial future.
If you are a victim of domestic violence, natural disaster or in charge of a deceased estate, you may be eligible for a free mail direction service.
How to apply:
You can apply in person at any Australia Post location. You will need to complete the application to redirect your mail, provide proof of identity and any additional requirements. Further information can be found on the Australia Post website.
To apply for assistance, use the online application form. Processing delays will apply to applications received by post.
COVID-19 restrictions can affect the number of attendees permitted at funerals. See the COVID-19 website below for for current information.
People who have recently experienced the death of a friend or family member and who have tried all options to raise funds or obtain credit may be eligible for help through Funeral AssistanceSA.
You can apply online, by email or fax. The application form can be obtained from the website.
Please call for further information on eligibility, what is covered and what you will need or visit the website below.