_1.png)
Financial counselling
We provide free financial counselling for anyone experiencing financial difficulties caused by gambling harm.
Our financial counsellors understand money concerns can happen to anyone. They listen without judgement and provide confidential support.
How can a financial counsellor help me?
Melbourne Counseling Service Financial Counselors are members of the Financial Counselling Victoria (FCVIC).
They are able to:
- Help you to assess, consolidate and manage debt
- Work with you to set financial goals and create a budget
- Negotiate with creditors on your behalf about repayment arrangements
- Check if you're eligible for government support
- Help you apply for hardship variations on existing loans
- Explain the risks of bankruptcy or accessing your superannuation early and guide you through the alternatives available
What kind of concerns can a financial counsellor help me with?
- Budgeting issues - trouble keeping up with bills and other financial commitments
- Contact from debt collectors
- Repossessions or evictions
- Default notices
- Utility disconnections
- Court issues and fines
- Centrelink issues
- Bankruptcy
- Tax debt
What should I bring to an appointment with a financial counsellor?
To allow a Gambler's Help Financial Counsellor to establish a full picture of your finances, you need to bring the following information to your first appointment:
- Details of income (such as pay slips or Centrelink statements)
- Current bank statements
- A list of all your debts
- Copies of (or information about) all your loan agreements
- Details of current and outstanding bills
- Copies of (or information about) any court documents you have received
What can't financial counsellors assist with?
Unfortunately, a Gambler's Help Financial Counsellor program does not provide certain services.
We are unable to help you with:
- Organising debt consolidations
- Providing investment or taxation advice
- Providing emergency relief, money or accommodation