Welcome to Financial Counselling (Vic)

I have received a disconnection notice for my gas or electricity. What can I do?

Phone your utility provider and let them know you are having financial difficulties. You may be eligible for a Utility Relief Grant, or you can arrange a repayment plan or an Ezyway card for payment to future bills. If you are with AGL, you may be eligible for their Staying Connected program.

I have Perin fines, what can I do?

You can arrange a pay-by-installment plan, or you may have the option of doing a community based order, worked off at $20 per hour or a Custodial community permit, worked off at $50 per hour. All your fines can be rolled into one payment plan.

I'm having trouble paying off my credit card. I've lost my job and the interest is killing me.

It may be possible to request a moratorium on interest and credit charges for a period of time, allowing you to catch up on the principal whilst you look for a new job. Or if you have credit card insurance, you may be able to use this to cover your payments.

I'm behind in my mortgage, help!

You may be eligible for assistance through the Mortgage Relief Scheme. Another option is to access your superannuation. Phgone a financial counsellor for more information.

My financial situation has changed and I'm struggling with my car repayments...

Under the Consumer Credit Code, you may be able to apply for a variation to your contract, enabling you to get through this difficult time and keep your car. It's possible to either reduce your payments for a period of time or even to cease payments for a few months and increase the length of your contract. This also would apply to personal loans.