Having a plan will help you feel more prepared if your living expenses increase. There's also support and services available if you're feeling overwhelmed.
If you're in crisis and struggling to buy food or pay for essentials, see urgent help with money.
Make a plan
No matter what stage you're at, it's always a good idea to make a plan for your money. You can:
- Do a budget to help you feel more in control of where your money is going. A budget will also help you prioritise what matters most and identify any expenses that you can cut or reduce.
- Look at other ways to reduce your living costs.
- Talk to your lender if you're concerned about your mortgage repayments.
For other ways to plan ahead and manage expenses, explore the pages linked below.
Get help if you need it
If you need help to get your finances back on track, talk to a financial counsellor. They can help you prioritise your bills and repayments. The sooner you get help, the more options you'll have.
Call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007. The helpline is open Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:30pm. This is a free and confidential service.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can call Mob Strong Debt Helpline on 1800 808 488. The helpline is open Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4.30pm.
Emotional support
Experiencing financial stress can impact your mental health.
If you're concerned about your mental wellbeing, help is available. Contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36 (24 hours a day). Or use Beyond Blue's web chat (24 hours a day).