Gillard government launches online financial councellor map

Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer, David Bradbury and Parliamentary Secretary for Community Services, Julie Collins today launched an online map to help people in financial difficulty find their nearest financial counsellor.

The online map, which is found on the MoneySmart website, shows the locations of 400 financial counselling services across the country and can be searched by town, suburb or postcode.

Ms Collins said financial counselling is a free, confidential and independent service funded by the Gillard Government and state and territory governments.

“Financial counsellors help people in financial difficulty to get debt under control and manage the family budget,” Ms Collins said.

“The Gillard Government is providing $43.4 million over three years to support financial counselling services.

“This new online map will improve people’s access to the services and help people in need get in touch with their local agency – be it in Bunbury or Katherine, Mount Gambier or Townsville, Wollongong or Dickson, Geelong or Burnie.”

Mr Bradbury said the MoneySmart website provides valuable information and resources to help people manage their finances, and the new map would point people in the right direction when they need professional financial counselling services.

“If people find themselves struggling to buy food, pay the rent or mortgage as well as juggling debts, they should consider seeking the help of a professional financial counsellor,” Mr Bradbury said.

“Along with the other online calculators, mobile phone apps and links to service providers, the new financial counsellor map on MoneySmart will help people to find assistance in their local area.”

The online map is available on the www.moneysmart.gov.au personal finance website.

People can also talk to a financial counsellor or get a referral by phoning 1800 007 007. The free hotline is available Australia-wide, Monday to Friday.