Do not rely on this website in emergency situations
This website is not intended for use during emergencies or as a sole source of information. In emergency situations, refer to official emergency broadcast sources, such as:
- ABC local radio
- Television broadcasts
- VicEmergency website, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) channels.
Charities like the Red Cross, St Vincent de Paul, The Salvation Army and Wesley Mission may be able to help with food, shelter and household items.
Contact your local council. They can connect you with local support services after an emergency. Find your local council.
Help with your finances
- Contact your local council: They can connect you with local support services after an emergency. Find your local council.
- Banks and insurers: They have special teams that can help you if you have money worries. Call your financial institution or go to the ‘Financial Hardship’ section of their website.
- National Debt Helpline: Call 1800 007 007
- Financial Counselling Victoria: Call 03 9663 2000
- Anglicare Victoria: Call 03 9412 6133
- Good Shepherd No Interest Loan Scheme: No Interest Loans can be a safe and affordable way to pay for expenses. Borrow up to $2,000 for essentials like appliances, furniture, car repairs, tech, or health needs. Borrow up to $3,000 for housing expenses or natural disaster recovery. Visit the Good Shepherd website for more information on these loans and eligibility.
Free legal advice
You may be eligible for free advice:
- Financial Rights Legal Centre. Call 1300 663 464
- Consumer Action Law Centre
- Disaster Legal Help Victoria. Call 1800 113 432
Wellbeing support
- Mental Health and Wellbeing: For free mental health support, visit the Partners in Wellbeing website or call 1300 375 330. You don’t need a referral or a Medicare card.
- Family Domestic Violence: A national 24-hour support helpline for support with family and domestic violence or sexual abuse. Call 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
- Lifeline: A national 24-hour helpline for anyone in emotional distress. Call 13 11 14 or visit the Lifeline website.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is intended for general information purposes only and no reliance should be placed on its contents or accuracy. It is not a definitive guide and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice and does not take into consideration your particular circumstances or needs. If you require assistance in respect of your personal circumstances, please seek independent advice. In an emergency, please also contact official sources for information. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of this page and the references to the links included within it. However, we cannot guarantee that the information is complete, current or free from errors. We do not control, endorse or take responsibility for the content of any external websites linked on this page.
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