If you're feeling overwhelmed by money or personal issues, it can be hard to know where to turn. You don't have to go it alone.
In an emergency, there are services to help you with food, housing and bills, as well as emotional support.
If you don't know where to start, call the free National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007. The helpline is open Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:30pm.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples can call the free Mob Strong Debt Helpline on 1800 808 488. The helpline is open Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:30pm.
Food and bills
Charities and community organisations have emergency relief services to help you with things like:
- food vouchers or food parcels
- transport vouchers
- chemist vouchers
- clothing or furniture
- part-payment of utility bills
- help with back-to-school costs
Contact your nearest:
- Salvation Army 13 72 58
- St Vincent de Paul Society 13 18 12
- local community centre, church or community organisation
For a full list of emergency relief services, see the Department of Social Service Grant Services Directory.
Centrelink
Centrelink provides a payment to people eligible for income support. Call 132 850, 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Crisis payment
You may be able to get a payment if you're in severe financial hardship following extreme circumstances. After a natural disaster, for example.
The Services Australia website has more information about crisis payments.
Advance payment
If you already get a Centrelink payment, you may be able to get an advance payment. This is money you would be getting from your existing payment but it's paid early. It's not an extra payment.
Housing
If you're homeless or in a housing crisis, your state or territory government can help.
They provide emergency temporary accommodation in places like low-cost hotels, motels and caravan parks. They may also be able to help with a rental bond.
Contact your state or territory housing department to see if you're eligible.
|
Australian Capital Territory |
OneLink |
| New South Wales | Link2home 1800 152 152 24 hours |
|
Northern Territory |
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Queensland |
Homeless Hotline |
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South Australia |
Homelessness Gateway |
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Tasmania |
Homes Tasmania Housing Connect |
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Victoria |
HousingVic |
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Western Australia |
Entrypoint Perth |
Emotional support
If you're going through a personal crisis, help is available. Contact one of these free and confidential services.
|
Crisis support |
Lifeline |
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Depression or anxiety |
Beyond Blue |
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Sexual assault, domestic or family violence counselling |
1800RESPECT |
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Alcohol or other drug use |
Family Drug Support Australia |
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Gambling |
Gambling Help Online |