Helpful Information
Free calculators and tips to help you take control of your money and build a better life.
To speak to a financial counsellor
1800 007 007
To speak to a First Nations financial counsellor
1800 808 488
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
For a full list of emergency relief services, see the Department of Social Service Grant Services Directory.
Emotional support
If you're going through a personal crisis, help is available. Contact one of these free and confidential services.
Crisis support
Lifeline
13 11 14
24 hours
Lifeline's crisis support online chatDepression or anxiety
Beyond Blue
1300 22 46 36
24 hours
Beyond Blue's web chatSexual assault, domestic or family violence counselling
1800RESPECT
1800 737 732
24 hoursAlcohol or other drug use
Family Drug Support Australia
1300 368 186
24 hoursGambling
Gambling Help Online
National Gambling Helpline
1800 858 858
24 hours
Centrelink provides a payment to people eligible for income support.
Call 132 850
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.