Christmas can be a time of escalating debt for many people. It’s useful to know where to go for help, so here’s some tips on information and resources available online.
Remember, COTA Victoria has a part-time financial counsellor available for one-on-one assistance if you have debts that are difficult to manage. Phone (03) 9655 2100 to book an appointment. This is a free and confidential service.
Resources to help deal with debts:
- Call the National Debt Hotline on 1800 007 007 for free and confidential advice from professional financial counsellors. The hotline is open from 9.30 am to 4.30 pm, Monday to Friday.
- The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has excellent online resources covering everything from budgeting to bankruptcy.
- The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) also has an excellent website, with a section dedicated to seniors.
- The Australian Financial Security Authority (AFSA) has recently launched a series of online tools and information that can help with debt issues.