Victorians get MoneyHelp
As a result of the global economic downturn, many thousands of Victorians are facing job losses or shorter working hours. For many people, this is the first time in their working lives they have faced job cuts or job losses. The resulting financial difficulty could leave them feeling confused and unsure about their future.
MoneyHelp is a not-for-profit service supported by the Victorian Government to provide free, confidential and independent information and financial advice to these Victorians. It comprises a suite of products and services including:
- a website with information, contacts, sample letters and guides;
- email access to financial counsellors;
- a free phone financial counselling service (including an interpreter service);
- a series of factsheets.
The MoneyHelp website offers various entry points for people who wish to access information, tools and tips due to unexpected changes in their finances resulting from unemployment or reduced work hours. Visitors to the site can prepare a budget, prioritise debt, learn about hardship programs and compare available debt payment options in areas such as mortgages, credit cards, utility bills, child support payments and other debts. The website also provides links to other relevant agencies.
People should access the MoneyHelp website or telephone counselling as early as possible: this will give them more time to adjust following the change in their financial circumstances and help them avoid falling into financial crisis. The website also gives an overview of how to manage on a limited income, stay positive, become aware of available help, and begin to look for a new job in a much changed jobs market.
MoneyHelp provides a range of promotional products (including posters, flyers and wallet cards), which are available for distribution through various organisations, to help raise visibility. An industry liaison officer also promotes and disseminates MoneyHelp services and products.
People are encouraged to tell their friends, relatives and neighbours about MoneyHelp, and how they can access information and support in case they face retrenchment or reduced working hours.
To find out more, visit moneyhelp.org.au or call 1800 149 689.
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