This data has been offered by MoneySmart.gov and Providers Australia.
Good Shepherd in collaboration with the Federal Authorities and NAB are providing Family Aid Loans With out Curiosity for these affected by the coronavirus pandemic – together with a free COVID Hardship Help Hotline.
Loans of as much as $3,000 can be found for lease, charges, physique company charges and utility payments – with no curiosity, prices or charges.
For particulars name 1300 121 130 or tap here to apply.
Issues to consider
There are issues it is advisable take into consideration when taking out a mortgage or utilizing credit score. It’s best to ask your self if all the following applies:
- it’s one thing you really want proper now or if it can save you up and purchase it in full later
- it’ll make your budgeting tight and shall be arduous to cowl payments like lease or meals
- paying it can cease you from saving or having cash for emergencies
- there are different methods to get or pay for what you need.
There’s secure and inexpensive finance on the market. Examine if you will get no interest or low interest loans from Good Shepherd Microfinance.
Earlier than making use of for a mortgage or credit score, use the Australian Securities & Investments Fee’s (ASIC) MoneySmart simple money manager. It may well provide help to work out your price range.
When you do apply for a mortgage or credit score, all the time test the phrases and circumstances. There shall be issues lenders received’t let you know up entrance. Don’t signal a contract in case you nonetheless have questions.
Take into consideration speaking to somebody earlier than you are taking out a mortgage or credit score. You can even discover out about free legal advice on the MoneySmart web site.
Sorts of loans and credit score
There are various kinds of loans and credit score with completely different charges, prices and rates of interest.
Go to the MoneySmart web site for recommendation about:
Licensed lenders
When you get a mortgage or credit score, it’s a good suggestion to guard your self. This will imply taking the time to decide on the best mortgage or lender.
There are legal guidelines that licensed lenders should comply with when lending cash to you. Discover out extra about shopper credit score legal guidelines on the ASIC website.
To test for a licensed credit score supplier or credit score help supplier, search Connect’s Professional Registers on the ASIC web site.
When you’re sad with a lender, discover out how to make a complaint on the MoneySmart web site.

Issues paying your payments
When you can’t pay your electrical energy, gasoline, cellphone or water invoice, contact your service supplier immediately. They are going to clarify your choices, corresponding to:
- an extension to pay
- paying in instalments
- Centrelink deductions (Centrepay)
- making use of for a utility rebate or voucher
When you don’t contact your supplier, they could droop or disconnect your service.
Not paying may additionally hurt your credit score.
When you want a step-by-step information on what to do, see the Nationwide Debt Helpline’s get your bills under control.
Issues paying fines
When you can’t pay parking, dashing or littering fines, it’s vital to contact your state debt restoration company immediately:
Ask about your choices, corresponding to:
- an extension to pay
- paying in instalments
- Centrelink deductions (Centrepay)
- doing group service to work off the debt
- getting a warning (for instance, when you have a psychological sickness or an mental incapacity or are homeless)
When you don’t make contact with the state debt restoration company, they could:
- droop or cancel your driver’s licence or automotive registration
- take you to courtroom
- publish your title on a fines restoration web site
- take and promote your possessions
- take a few of your wages
- register a cost over your land
For a step-by-step information on what to do, see the Nationwide Debt Helpline’s paying fines.
Issues paying your lease
When you assume you’ll have hassle paying your lease, discuss to your landlord or actual property agent. Ask about decreasing or deferring funds for 30 days till you’ve a greater thought of your earnings.
Put the request in writing, so you’ve proof that you just’ve tried to resolve the state of affairs. Use this template letter from Tenants’ Union NSW.
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