Here at Affordable SA we receive phone calls every day from people from all over South Australia who are experiencing financial hardship. After working on the Intake Line for several years, one of the biggest things that I have learnt is that financial hardship does not discriminate - it can affect anyone.
The other parents who give you a wave as you drop your children off at school may have no idea that you are struggling to keep up with your mortgage repayments. The neighbour you speak to over the fence about the weather may have no idea that your mobile phone service has just been restricted because you haven't been able to pay the bill. The elderly woman who smiles at you as you take your bins out each week may have no idea that you just received a default notice from your bank because you have not been able to keep up with the payments on your car loan. The man who served you at the supermarket this morning may have no idea that you budgeted to the exact dollar for food just so you can pay your rent next fortnight.
Financial Hardship can affect anyone and there a many different reasons why:
- Unemployment
- Underemployment
- Redundancy
- Injury
- Illness
- Family violence
- Credit over-commitment
- Physical health
- Mental health
- A relationship breakdown
- Addiction
- Death
- and much more...
The important thing to remember is that if you are experiencing financial hardship you do not have to go through it alone. If utility companies, banks, creditors, collection agencies, payday lenders, insurance companies, etc are constantly contacting you demanding money and you don’t know what to tell them anymore it is okay to reach out and ask for help.
Financial counselling is a free, independent and confidential service that offers support, information and advocacy to anyone experiencing financial hardship. A financial counsellor will look at your overall financial situation and provide you with options, and can advocate or negotiate on your behalf if needed.
To see if financial counselling is right for you, the following video Moneysmart explains the role of a financial counsellor.
To find a financial counsellor near you, see the attached link for a list available in South Australia, or ring the Affordable SA Helpline at 1800 025 539.
Emergency Financial Assistance in South Australia
When financial stress hits, knowing where to turn can be a lifeline. Whether you're struggling to pay bills, afford groceries, or manage unexpected costs, there are services across South Australia designed to provide immediate help. Here’s a guide to the support available, from emergency assistance to longer-term solutions.
What Help Can You Access?
If you’re facing financial hardship, you may be eligible for assistance, such as:
- Food Vouchers: For groceries or meals.
- Chemist Vouchers: To help with medication and health needs.
- Transport Vouchers: For public transport or fuel.
- Rent and Accommodation Support: Assistance with payments or emergency housing.
- Utility Bill Help: To prevent disconnection or reduce arrears.
- Material Aid: Includes food hampers, clothing, or even small cash payments.
Key Organisations Offering Support
1. AC Care
Supports individuals and families in regional areas like the Limestone Coast, Riverland, and Murraylands with emergency relief, including food and financial counselling.
2. Anglicare SA
Offers financial assistance, food vouchers, and utility bill help to people across Northern and Southern Adelaide.
3. Baptist Care SA
Operates Community Food Hubs providing low-cost groceries and emergency material aid.
4. Centacare Catholic Community Service
Provides food relief, financial counselling, and emergency assistance tailored to individual needs.
5. Lutheran Community Care
Delivers food hampers, emergency financial support, and other assistance, particularly in regional South Australia.
6. The Hut Community Centre
Helps Adelaide Hills residents with emergency relief, referrals, and material aid.
7. UnitingCare Wesley Bowden
Assists Western Adelaide residents with financial counselling, food vouchers, and utilities help.
8. Uniting Communities
Offers holistic support, including emergency relief, food, and financial advice.
9. Department for Child Protection
Provides financial and material aid to existing clients facing emergencies.
Emergency Electricity Assistance
The Emergency Electricity Payment Scheme (EEPS) provides up to $800 every two years to eligible customers struggling with electricity bills. This payment is credited directly to your account and can help if:
- You have an electricity debt.
- You’re at risk of disconnection, or your electricity has already been disconnected.
How to Apply
Contact a financial counsellor to assess your situation and submit the application on your behalf.
The Role of Financial Counselling
Financial counsellors provide free, confidential support to help you regain control of your finances. They can:
- Negotiate payment plans with creditors.
- Advocate for access to concessions and hardship programs.
- Help you manage debt and avoid legal issues.
- Assist in applying for emergency payments like EEPS or Centrelink crisis payments.
It’s a good idea to contact a financial counsellor if:
- You’re juggling multiple debts or falling behind on payments.
- You’ve been contacted by debt collectors.
- You’re compromising on essentials like food or healthcare to pay bills.
Micro-Finance Options: No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS)
For those on a low income, NILS provides no-fee, interest-free loans to help purchase essential household items, such as:
- Fridges, washing machines, or furniture.
- Computers and textbooks for education.
- Medical or dental services.
Loans cannot be used for ongoing expenses like rent or groceries. For eligibility and more information, visit the NILS website.
Take Action Today
If you’re experiencing financial stress, don’t wait—support is available. Reach out to one of the organisations listed above or contact a financial counsellor to explore your options. Taking the first step can make all the difference.
Recovering from Natural Disasters: Financial Assistance and Community Support
Natural disasters are life-changing events that leave individuals, families, and communities grappling with financial and emotional stress. Whether it’s bushfires, floods, or storms, the path to recovery often begins with immediate support and access to financial counselling services. This article reflects on the role of community networks, emergency relief, and financial preparedness in navigating the aftermath of natural disasters.
The Role of Community During Natural Disasters
In the wake of disasters, stories of resilience and communal support often shine through the devastation. People come together to shelter those displaced, share resources, and take steps to protect their communities. From cutting firebreaks to hosting multiple families in their homes, these acts of solidarity can make all the difference.
Support networks—friends, family, and neighbours—are essential for emotional and practical aid during crises. These bonds provide strength and stability, reinforcing the importance of fostering connected communities before disaster strikes.
Immediate Financial Assistance
One of the greatest challenges faced during a natural disaster is the immediate financial burden. Essential living expenses, such as groceries, petrol, school fees, and rent, don’t pause for emergencies. To address these challenges, emergency financial assistance services are available:
- Food Vouchers and Material Aid: Access to essential groceries and household items.
- Utility and Accommodation Assistance: Support for those facing disconnection or seeking temporary shelter.
- Emergency Electricity Payments: Programs like the Emergency Electricity Payment Scheme (EEPS) offer relief for electricity debts, helping to prevent disconnections.
These services ensure that individuals can access essentials even in the most difficult times.
Financial Counselling for Long-Term Recovery
Beyond immediate relief, financial counselling plays a critical role in disaster recovery. Counsellors help individuals:
- Navigate debt management and set up affordable payment plans.
- Advocate with creditors, utility providers, and insurance companies.
- Access government grants, concessions, and other forms of financial aid.
Free and confidential financial counselling is available through organisations like The Salvation Army, which places dedicated staff in affected communities. These counsellors work closely with disaster recovery centres to support individuals through the often-complex financial aftermath.
The Importance of Being Prepared
Natural disasters underscore the value of financial preparedness. Establishing an emergency fund, understanding insurance policies, and having a disaster response plan can mitigate the long-term effects of these events. Reflecting on their experiences, disaster relief workers often emphasise the importance of preparedness and resilience-building within communities.
How You Can Support Recovery Efforts
For those not directly impacted, supporting affected communities is crucial. Shopping locally, donating to recovery efforts, and volunteering are meaningful ways to contribute. As communities rebuild, ongoing support helps sustain their recovery and resilience.
Accessing Support
If you’re recovering from a natural disaster and experiencing financial hardship:
- Contact a financial counsellor through local recovery centres or organisations like The Salvation Army.
- Reach out for emergency relief through regional organisations providing food, utility, and accommodation assistance.
- Take advantage of financial programs like the Emergency Electricity Payment Scheme or disaster recovery grants offered by the government.
Navigating the aftermath of a natural disaster is a long journey, but with community support and access to the right resources, recovery is possible.
For more information on disaster recovery services, visit your local recovery centre or contact trusted organisations offering emergency financial assistance.
Can you remember a time when you were watching the evening news and people in suits walked into a large, grey building carrying brief cases and boxes, while the reporter confirmed that a high-profile person or business had filed for bankruptcy? For many of us, the financial collapse of a multi-million dollar company or the financial downfall of a celebrity was our only window into the mysterious world of bankruptcy.
However, if we look past the multi-million dollar companies and the celebrities, here on the Helpline we receive several phone calls a day from everyday South Australians wishing to apply for bankruptcy for all kinds of debts because they believe it to be their only option.
A person may have credit card debt that has grown out of control, residual debts from a relationship breakdown that have now gone to debt collectors, a shortfall from the sale of a property, an insurance debt or a large electricity bill. Whatever the debts may be, people often look to bankruptcy as an option because it will make everything go away.
Although applying for bankruptcy may seem like a ‘quick fix’ solution, it is important that before you sign on the dotted line you are fully informed of all the options that are available to you and that if you choose to apply for bankruptcy, how the repercussions of this decision will affect the rest of your life.
Whether you have simply been thinking about bankruptcy as an option or the paperwork is sitting on your kitchen table waiting to be filled out, please consider speaking to a Financial Counsellor first to discuss your options.
To speak to a free Financial Counsellor call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 or search for the National Debt Helpline on the Affordable SA App.
For more information about Bankruptcy, see the attached link from the Moneysmart website.
Understanding Financial Abuse and How to Get Help
Financial abuse is a form of domestic violence that often occurs alongside physical, emotional, or psychological abuse. It involves controlling or restricting someone's financial resources to exert power and control, leaving the victim vulnerable and dependent. In Australia, 15 out of every 100 women and 7 out of every 100 men experience financial abuse, with nearly 9 out of 10 women accessing domestic violence services reporting this form of abuse.
If you or someone you know is experiencing financial abuse, understanding its signs and knowing where to get help are vital steps toward regaining control and safety.
What is Financial Abuse?
Financial abuse involves behaviours that limit a person’s financial freedom, independence, and security. It can take many forms, such as:
- Preventing access to bank accounts or financial information.
- Pressuring someone to take out loans, credit cards, or utility accounts in their name.
- Controlling or withholding household income.
- Damaging, stealing, or selling property without permission.
- Restricting access to essentials like transportation, the internet, or mobile phones.
- Discouraging or preventing someone from working or studying.
Who Can Be a Perpetrator?
Financial abuse can be perpetrated by:
- Partners, spouses, or ex-partners.
- Parents, guardians, or family members.
- Carers or paid support workers.
- Adult children.
- Housemates or others within your close circle.
Recognising the Signs of Financial Abuse
Consider the following questions:
- Has someone blocked or tried to block your access to your bank accounts?
- Have you been stopped from working, studying, or managing your own finances?
- Are you being pressured to take on debt in your name?
- Have you been denied access to household finances, making it difficult to pay for basic needs?
If you answered "yes" to any of these, it’s crucial to speak to someone who can help.
How to Get Help
Support Services
- 1800 Respect (1800 737 732): A 24-hour counselling and support service for those impacted by sexual assault, domestic violence, or abuse.
- National Debt Helpline (1800 007 007): Free, confidential, and independent advice from financial counsellors who can help you manage debt and explore your options.
For more information about financial abuse, visit the 1800 Respect website or explore the Family & Domestic Violence category on our website.. Here, you’ll find tools, contacts, and advice tailored to those experiencing abuse.
Remember, no one should face financial abuse alone. Support is available to help you reclaim your independence and begin the journey toward safety and stability.
If you’re seeking help online, your safety is paramount. The Affordable SA website features a "Quick Exit" button at the top of the page. Clicking this immediately redirects you to a neutral site, ensuring privacy if you’re being monitored.
Back-to-School Costs: Managing the Technology Burden
The start of the school year brings new challenges for families, and it's no longer just about uniforms and stationery. Over the past decade, the rising importance of technology in education has made laptops, tablets, and other mobile devices essential tools for everyday learning. For many families, these technology needs now represent the largest back-to-school expense, compounding the financial pressures of the cost of living.
The Challenge of Rising School Costs
Many parents are still grappling with the financial aftermath of Christmas when the costs of schooling come into focus. Essential devices, textbooks, and software are expensive, and for low-income households, finding the money can seem impossible without taking on debt. However, relying on high-interest loans or payday lenders to cover these costs can lead to deeper financial trouble.
A Solution: No Interest Loans (NILS)
The No Interest Loans Scheme (NILS), run by Good Shepherd, is a lifesaver for families struggling with back-to-school expenses. Here’s how it works:
- No Interest or Fees: You only repay what you borrow, avoiding the debt traps associated with high-interest loans.
- Back-to-School Essentials: NILS can now be used to cover the costs of laptops, tablets, textbooks, and other school necessities.
- Eligibility: Low-income earners and those in financial hardship are eligible to apply.
NILS has already helped thousands of families purchase essential household items like fridges and washing machines. Extending this support to educational needs ensures that children have access to the tools they need to succeed without placing undue strain on family finances.
Why Choose NILS?
For low-income families, no-interest loans provide a practical and affordable solution to cover school costs:
- Avoid Long-Term Debt: Repaying only the principal amount ensures you won’t spiral into financial hardship.
- Accessible: Designed for people experiencing financial difficulties, the application process is straightforward and supportive.
- Support Education: With NILS, families can invest in their children’s education without compromising other essential expenses.
How to Apply
Applying for a NILS loan is simple:
- Visit the NILS Website: Go to nils.com.au to locate your nearest provider.
- Contact a Local Provider: Speak with a local representative to discuss your needs and eligibility.
- Prepare Your Documents: Gather proof of income, identification, and quotes for the items you need to purchase.
For more details about NILS and other financial support services available in South Australia, visit the Affordable SA website or download the Affordable SA App for free on Apple or Google Play.
Take Control of Back-to-School Costs
Investing in your child’s education shouldn’t push your family into financial hardship. With programs like NILS, you can afford the essentials without taking on risky debt. Start the school year with confidence, knowing there are support systems in place to help your family thrive.
For further assistance, call the Affordable SA Helpline on 1800 025 539.
And just like that the school holidays are over.
If you have children, the back to school frenzy is probably the next big financial thing in your life.
Whether a child is starting Reception or Year 12, the cost of education can have an extremely large impact on household finances.
Uniforms, bags, textbooks, stationery, school fees, camps, excursions, school photos, swimming carnivals, laptops, lunches…the list goes on.
Here on the Helpline, particularly this time of year, we hear many stories of families who are trying to juggle everyday living expenses in an attempt to buy laptops, school jumpers, school shoes or any other extra cost that may surface for the new school year.
For more information about how to reduce back to school costs, see the attached link to the Moneysmart website.
The Affordable SA App also has a dedicated section for Education. See the following link for more information https://www.affordablesa.com.au/programs/education
How to Avoid the Financial Aftermath of Christmas
As the festive season fades, many people find themselves facing the financial hangover of Christmas. While the decorations are packed away and supermarkets rush into the next holiday with Easter buns and eggs, credit card bills and unplanned expenses linger, casting a shadow over the new year. Planning ahead for Christmas is essential to avoid these financial pitfalls and ensure the holiday remains a time of joy, not stress.
The Ripple Effect of Christmas Costs
The 24 hours of Christmas Day often take weeks to plan and months to repay. Without proper budgeting, the financial repercussions can lead to:
- Utility Disconnections: Overdue bills from overspending on gifts or celebrations.
- Debt Accumulation: Credit card payments or payday loans eating into new year earnings.
- Credit Defaults: Missed payments that can impact future financial stability.
Planning Ahead for Next Christmas
If this year’s Christmas caused financial strain, it’s never too early to start preparing for the next one. Here are tips from financial counsellors to help you stay ahead:
1. Create a Christmas Budget
- Review your spending from the previous Christmas to estimate costs for gifts, food, and activities.
- Divide the total amount by the number of pay periods left before next Christmas and set aside that amount in a separate account.
2. Plan Hosting Costs Early
- If it’s your turn to host Christmas lunch or dinner, factor in the additional expense and start saving early.
- Consider asking guests to bring a dish to share, reducing the financial and logistical burden.
3. Account for Employment Breaks
- If you’re casually employed or your workplace shuts down over the holidays, save in advance to cover essential living expenses during this period.
4. Rethink Christmas Hampers
- While convenient, Christmas hampers with payment plans can often cost more than buying items individually. Explore alternatives like shopping sales throughout the year to build your own hamper.
Avoiding Post-Christmas Blues
Christmas should be about enjoying time with loved ones—not worrying about bills. Here’s how to keep the holiday magic without breaking the bank:
- Set Spending Limits: Agree on a gift budget with family and friends to avoid overspending.
- DIY Gifts: Homemade treats, crafts, or thoughtful gestures can be just as meaningful as store-bought items.
- Shop Smart: Take advantage of post-holiday sales for next year’s decorations, cards, and wrapping paper.
Need Financial Help Now?
If you’re starting the new year struggling with the financial impact of Christmas, support is available:
- National Debt Helpline: Call 1800 007 007 to speak to a free financial counsellor.
- Online Resources: Visit the MoneySmart website for tips on managing Christmas spending and budgeting advice.
By planning ahead and using the resources available, you can enjoy a stress-free Christmas next year without carrying financial burdens into the new year. Remember, the magic of the holiday season doesn’t have to come at the expense of your financial well-being.
Is Self-Storage the Right Choice for Me?
Our lives often accumulate more "stuff" than we know what to do with. From forgotten items in ceiling cavities to boxes stacked in garages, belongings can quickly take over our spaces. For many, self-storage seems like the perfect solution, offering a temporary home for excess possessions. However, it’s important to weigh the costs and risks before deciding if it’s the right option for you.
Why Do People Use Self-Storage?
People turn to self-storage for various reasons, including:
- Downsizing their home.
- Moving house or leaving temporarily.
- Separating from a partner.
- Transitioning into aged care or a retirement home.
- Storing items after a loved one’s passing.
While self-storage can be a practical solution, it’s essential to think about the long-term implications, especially if you’re facing financial hardship.
The Risks of Self-Storage During Financial Hardship
As financial counsellors, we often hear from people who are struggling to keep up with storage payments. Here’s what many don’t realise:
- Access Restrictions: Storage facilities may refuse to release your belongings if your payments aren’t up to date.
- Auctioning of Belongings: If you fall too far behind, the facility might sell your items at auction to recover unpaid fees.
- Hidden Costs: Over time, the cost of storage can exceed the value of the stored items, especially for things that could be replaced more cheaply.
Questions to Ask Before Renting a Storage Unit
To avoid these potential pitfalls, consider the following questions before committing to self-storage:
- Can I Afford It?
- Calculate the monthly cost and how it fits into your budget.
- Have I Read the Contract?
- Understand the terms, including what happens if payments are missed.
- What Happens to My Belongings if I Can’t Pay?
- Ask about the facility’s policies regarding overdue accounts and auctions.
- Is It Worth the Cost?
- Compare the cost of storing items to the cost of replacing them.
- Do the Items Have Sentimental Value?
- For irreplaceable belongings, consider alternatives like storing them with friends or family.
- Can Anything Be Stored Digitally?
- Scan documents and photos to save physical space.
- Do I Really Need These Items?
- If you won’t use the items in the next year, consider donating or selling them instead.
What to Do If You’re Behind on Storage Payments
If you’re struggling to keep up with payments, don’t wait until it’s too late. Speak to a Financial Counsellor to explore your options:
- Call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 for free, confidential advice.
- Discuss payment plans or debt management strategies tailored to your situation.
By carefully considering your options and planning ahead, you can make the best decision about whether self-storage is right for you. With a little preparation, you can avoid unnecessary financial stress while keeping your belongings safe.