CAS
Financial support services
What financial support is there to help me?
Money worries are common for people experiencing domestic, family and sexual violence
Across Australia there are many services that can help you with your money and financial problems
You don’t have to stay in a violent situation because of money worries. Help is available, so you can make safe choices for you and your family
This page shows you where you can go for support.
Money worries can be stressful for anyone. But they can feel even harder when you’re experiencing domestic, family or sexual violence.
Financial stress can make it hard to make decisions and feel safe. Support is available to help you manage your money and take steps toward safety.
You don’t have to stay in a violent situation because of money worries. There are services across Australia that can help with financial support. Below are some of the options for help and support. You can also find services in our Service Directory or on the Money Smart website. The Money Smart website has free guidance and tools to help people make informed decisions about their money.
I need help with money or everyday expenses
There are services that can help you with:
- Rent or housing
- Water, gas or electricity bills
- Food vouchers
- Transport vouchers
- Medicines
- Clothing
- Budgeting support
- Other essential goods and services
If you need financial support, here are some ways you can get help:
- Search our Service Directory for services near you. Simply select the service you need and the state you are located in
- Contact 1800RESPECT for a referral: call 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit our website for online chat and video call services
- Find local Emergency Relief services on the Department of Social Services website or call 1300 653 227.
No Interest Loan Scheme
NILS gives out safe, fair loans to people on low incomes. It is also for people who have experienced family or domestic violence in the past 10 years.
You can use a NILS loan to pay for things you need. This may include a fridge, dental expenses, car repairs, school fees and more.
You can learn more about NILS, where to get a loan, and who can apply, on the Good Shepherd website or by calling 13 64 57.
Please stay alert for fake social media pages that pretend to offer loans.
Leaving Violence Program
If you are leaving an intimate relationship where your partner uses violence, you are not alone. The Leaving Violence Program can support you to leave an intimate partner who uses violence through individualised support packages that offer financial and other supports. The Program is available to support those who are eligible regardless of gender or visa status.
What relationship violence can look like
Violence can take many forms, including:
- physical,
- sexual
- emotional
- spiritual
- financial
- psychological abuse.
If you’re in an intimate partner relationship which is causing you harm, this program may be able to help.
What support is available?
Eligible individuals can access:
- financial assistance
- referrals to other services
- help navigating your next steps.
How to apply:
- Visit the Leaving Violence Program website
- Call 1800 2 LEAVE (1800 253 283) for more information, available Monday – Friday 8:30am – 5:30pm (excluding public holidays)
Please note, the Leaving Violence Program is not a crisis support service. If you are in immediate danger, call 000. If you need urgent support, 1800RESPECT is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
I need financial counselling or help with debt
If you are worried about debt, you can call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007. You will speak to independent financial counsellors. Their advice is free, non-judgmental and private.
They can give you guidance on your:
- Gas, electricity, phone or internet bills
- Rent or mortgage payments
- Credit cards and personal loans
- Centrelink issues
- Joint debts
- General financial stress or hardship.
You can also get help from the National Debt Helpline website. This website has information about financial hardship caused by domestic, family and sexual violence.
You don’t have to manage this alone. Support is available to help you take the next step safely and with dignity.
If you or someone you know affected by violence or abuse, you can call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit our website for online chat and video call services.
