There are various ways to reduce your financial stress and to get help.
Start by calculating your budget. There are many online tools that can help with this, such as Money Help / If your budget allows, set aside a small amount of money in a savings account each month for future emergencies — every little bit helps.
If your ongoing bills and expenses exceed your income, consider:
- Contacting a financial counselling service for free, confidential help.
- Contacting the people/organisations you owe money. Tell them you are having difficulties and ask for time to work things out. Make progress payments and set up a payment plan. Many services are happy to give you payment extensions if you call them. If you don’t get a helpful response speak to the Hardship Team of the lender or provider you are dealing with.
- Approaching a welfare service in your area for help with bill payments e.g. power, gas, phone.
- Approaching community organisations that provide free food hampers or free meals.
- Getting emotional support if you are feeling overwhelmed mentally or emotionally. Talk to a friend, family member, your GP, counsellor or a helpline like Lifeline.