Financial first aid
In these tough economic times more families are unable to pay bills on time.
Financial counselling services can help them to manage their budgets and avoid financial hardship.
Early last year families were experiencing mortgage stress due to high interest rates. Today, the stress is due to their hours of work being cut back or job loss says Lifeline's general manager Julie Aganoff.
Lifeline has just opened financial counselling services around the state and every day they are seeing people in financial trouble. This can range from being harassed by creditors to facing legal action regarding debts, dealing with car repossession and worrying about being evicted.
"Don't wait until you have the first eviction notice before you seek assistance"
"When people get into financial difficulty they often pull the shutters down and don't want to face it. But it's important for people to manage their financial problems and not just move them from one place to another," Julie says. "If you can communicate with creditors early enough there is an opportunity to negotiate repayment plans or even defer payments. Just don't wait until you have the first eviction notice before you seek assistance."
The new financial counselling services are funded by the Department of Communities and offer free independent financial advice. The counsellors assist with budgeting, debt management, creditor negotiation and bankruptcy. Support can also provide long-lasting benefits including changes in financial behaviour and improved budgeting.
Counsellors are located in Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton, Hervey Bay, Dalby, the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Ipswich and the Gold Coast.
For more information visit www.lccq.org.au or call financial first aid hotline on 1300 370 255 from 10am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
Problem gambling
Severe problem gambling affects not only the people who gamble, but also partners, families and the broader community. Some of the consequences of problem gambling can include guilt, depression, suicide, debt, poverty, divorce and involvement in crime.
Where do people get help?
Gamblers and people affected by another person's gambling can receive free, confidential help. Gambling Helpline is a confidential 24-hour telephone service that provides information, referral and crisis counselling.
Freecall 1800 222 050
Gambling help services provide addiction and financial counselling and other services.
Visit www.communities.qld.gov.au/community/contacts/gambling.html
Last reviewed: 18 September 2009