Financial difficulty can happen to anyone at any time which can affect people in different ways. In these times it can be easy to get weighed down but there is assistance out there – and it’s free.
Assistance is out there. It seems easier to bury your head in the sand but if you get on the front foot to manage your debts you've got a better chance of getting back on your feet. The organisations listed below can assist you.
We recognise that tough times can happen to anyone so if you’re struggling to keep up with your repayments, call us to discuss your options and see how we can assist you in getting back on track.
To discuss repayment arrangements: 1300 135 323
Experiencing financial difficulty: 1800 701 599
Visit financial hardship for more information.
We all have bills and sometimes there isn’t enough money to go around.
If you’re finding it tough to pay your bills give your utility company a call because they may be able to assist. You can find the phone number to call on your bill or on the utility companies web site.
Electricity, Gas, Water and Telephone providers have programs for customers who are finding it difficult to pay their bills. Also ask if there are any government or other concessions you may be eligible for.
For hints, tips and tools to help you with your money where you need it most whether it’s saving or budgeting to managing your debts. Visit Money Smart for more information.
Financial counselling is a free, confidential service to assist people in financial difficulty. National Debt Helpline have qualified professionals who can provide you with information, support and advocacy to assist you with your financial situation. You can give them a call on 1800 007 007.
NACLC is an independent not-for-profit community organisation that provides legal and related services to the public, focusing on the disadvantaged and people with special needs. The site is a centralised site where state based community legal centres can be found according to your needs and locality.
We recognise financial difficulty can be a contributor or consequence of mental health issues. If you or a loved one are struggling from a mental health issue, find help with one of the organisations listed below.
Beyond Blue is a not-for-profit organisation that can provide you with the tools and support for recovery, management and resilience.
Head to health provides access to a range of resources, information and services that suit your needs. From improving your overall wellbeing or helping someone that you care about.
Lifeline provides Australians experiencing a personal crisis with access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services.
If eligible, Social Work Services provide support, counselling and information in difficult times. Visit Department of Human Services to find out more.
RUOK is a not-for-profit organisation that aims to inspire Australians to have regular, meaningful conversations to help anyone who might be struggling with life.
Being unemployed can be difficult, especially financially. There are a range of government benefits potentially available to you and the Department of Human Service offers a payment finder that allows you to see what you may be eligible for.
Sometimes, unemployment offers time to reflect on whether your previous industry and career was the right one for you.
There are many helpful, online tools available to help you find the industry or career that you may be best suited for. Job Outlook has created a quiz which may help you to understand your work style, while MyFuture summarises information on different industries on an easy to use page.
If you’re thinking of entering the workforce as an apprentice, there are tools and resources available to help get you started. The Australian Apprenticeships website provides an easy to follow outline on how to become an apprentice, and can assist in finding a support network as you go through your apprenticeship.
The Australian government’s Jobactive website can direct you to thousands of jobs available in both the public and private sector.
For those who are looking to start their own business, Jobactive can also help assist with information on where and how to begin.
You now have the opportunity to present the best version of yourself for your next job, and it is important to prepare.
MyFuture offers tips and advice on how to clean up your digital footprint, which is becoming increasingly relevant in our digital age.
Your first impression isn’t always in person, so it’s important to keep your resume and cover letters updated. Job Access provides tools to help create an effective resume as well as tips on how to write a cover letter.
Interview tips
With an upcoming interview, you should be confident in your ability to answer questions about yourself and your previous work experience. MyFuture offers some tips on how to prepare for an interview as well as how to present yourself during an interview to make sure you give yourself the best possible chance to get the job.
If you've been made redundant or lost your job and believe you're owed outstanding employee entitlements, speak with the Fair Work Ombudsman to make sure you're getting what you deserve.
Family or domestic violence should never be ignored or excused. The Department of Human Services provides a fact sheet with information and assistance available.
1800RESPECT is the National Sexual Assault Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service. It offers confidential online and telephone counselling, information and referral services which are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For further support or information please call them on 1800 737 732.
Here's a list events where Money Smart can offer helpful information.
Dealing with illness
When you've fallen ill it's hard to know your rights and what steps to take if it's a longer term situation. Money Smart - dealing with illness provides a number of options to go through to assist your situation.
Losing someone close
The loss of a partner or someone close changes your life and it may be hard to think about money matters, but taking steps to help you through this period and prepare you for the future is necessary. Money Smart takes you through the practical steps.
If the person who passed away had accounts or loans with NAB you can contact NAB's Deceased Estate team for assistance with finalising their banking arrangements.
Divorce or separation
For anyone going through a relationship break up is hard, emotional and confusing. You can take some practical steps to make this time easier for you and get ready for your next chapter. Money Smart - divorce or separation can help you on your way.
With the ability to search over 350,000 services including housing, meals, counselling and many more, AskIzzy will identify the nearest and most appropriate services to you after answering a few simple questions.
Life is unpredictable and it’s sometimes hard to know where to start, that’s why we have put together some useful information related to things that can happen to all of us. Go to nab.com.au Life Moments to see a range of articles and resources.
Meet other business owners who can be a mentor to provide advice, expertise and skills in the business field ($80-$100 per session)
Call 1300 816 817 or visit www.sbms.org.au
The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman provide assistance and dispute resolution for small business owners. They offer a range of direct and online facilities.
Call them on 1300 650 460.
Get help to deal with financial hardship.
Talk to a financial counsellor. It's a free service. They can give you individual support to meet your needs and can support you to make the right decisions for your business.
Call 1800 686 175 or visit the Rural Financial Counselling Service page.
Search the government business portal to find applicable grants and advisory services for different business fields. Or call on 13 28 46.
Mon-Fri 8am - 8pm (AEST/AEDT) and Sat: 9am - 1pm (AEST/AEDT)
If you're overseas call +61 3 9322 7000 Mon-Fri 8am - 8pm (AEST/AEDT)
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