Are you struggling with loan repayments, rent or bills and have concerns that you are not able to work your way through your difficulties?

It could be you need to talk to a financial counsellor. In Australia a financial counsellor is different to a financial advisor. A financial advisor will talk to you about your investment requirements and can talk to you about issues like budgeting. However they do charge which makes it harder still to overcome your predicament. 

Financial counselling is generally a free service helping people with problems keeping their head above water. Financial Counsellors work for different organisations so it can be difficult to find them. They might work in your local shire office, for a religious organisation or care agency.  

They will sit down with you to find out your current financial difficulties and work with you to overcome your problems. 

The services they offer include: 

·      Assisting you with applications and other financial paperwork

·      To negotiate on your behalf with creditors if required

·      Preparing budgets

·      Presenting you with a range of options 

If you or someone you know is in serious financial difficulty, a financial counsellor may be the best option.