Hardship

Hardship

We understand that unexpected events in life, such as losing your job or the death of someone close to you can cause financial hardship for a potentially extended period. We are here to support you during these times and recommend Powershop’s Hardship Program ‘ON’ to assist you. The ON program is designed to give you as much help as possible, whether that is energy efficiency advice from one of our friendly staff or a referral to an external body such as a financial counsellor.

Please give us a call if you find yourself in this situation and need help. If you are not comfortable discussing your situation with us you are welcome to contact us and authorise someone to speak on your behalf, whether that be a financial counsellor or a friend of yours.

Find Powershop’s Hardship Policy here.

Where can I get help?

We can provide you with all of the energy efficiency advice and payment plans you need but there are those who are better at providing financial or family advice. If you are facing financial difficulties and would like to speak with a financial councilor you can call the National Debt Help line on 1800 007 007 or you can find a Financial Counsellor near you. They can sit down with you and review your expenses in order to provide you with advice on how to best manage your income. Good Shepherd Microfinance operates a no interest loan scheme that is available from over 150 community organisations at over 600 locations across Australia. Please visit their website for more information and to apply. Good Shepherd Microfinance can be contacted via phone on (03) 9495 9600, or email info@gsmicrofinance.org.au.St Vincent de Paul Society provides a wide range of services to people in need – including family welfare assistance or financial assistance. Please visit their website for a full list of their National Programs and Services. St Vinnies can be reached on:

• National: 1300 794 054 (Monday to Friday 9:00am to 1:00pm)

• Victorian: 1800 305 330 (Monday to Friday 10:00am to 3:00pm)

• New South Wales: (02) 9568 0262 (Monday to Friday 10:00am to 3:00pm)

• Queensland: 1800 846 643

• South Australia: (08) 8112 8700

The Salvation Army also provides a wide range of both financial and non-financial assistance. For emergency financial relief you can call the Salvo’s Emergency Relief Assessment team on 1300 371 288 (9am – 5pm Monday to Friday). Alternatively for information on no interest loans or financial counselling services, please visit their website. Kildonan Uniting Care provides a wide range of financial support programs which can be found on their website, they can also provide a range of community assistance programs. You can reach Kildonan Uniting Care via phone on 1800 002 992 or email info@kildonan.org.au.There is also a wide range of state based concession, rebate and grant programs available. You can find more information here.