Where to Get Free Financial Counselling in Australia
ADS Team
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August 31, 2026
3 days ago
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In short: Financial counselling is free, independent and confidential in Australia. Counsellors negotiate with creditors on your behalf, explain your options and can access hardship processes most people do not know exist. The National Debt Helpline is 1800 007 007.
Key takeaways
- Free, independent and confidential - never pay for this service.
- Counsellors negotiate directly with lenders and utilities.
- They can access hardship and waiver options not advertised publicly.
- Earlier contact means more options remain available.
What a counsellor actually does
- Reviews your full financial position, not just the debt you called about.
- Negotiates with creditors - lenders, utilities, councils, telcos.
- Applies for hardship variations and waivers on your behalf.
- Explains options including debt agreements and bankruptcy without selling any of them.
- Helps you prioritise which debts matter most.
How to reach one
| Service | Contact |
|---|---|
| National Debt Helpline | 1800 007 007 |
| Mob Strong Debt Help (First Nations) | 1800 808 488 |
| Small Business Debt Helpline | 1800 413 828 |
Lines are staffed by qualified counsellors, not sales staff. There is no cost and no obligation.
Avoid paid "debt help"
Commercial debt management and credit repair firms charge for services a financial counsellor provides free, and cannot remove accurate credit listings whatever they advertise.
If a service asks for an upfront fee to negotiate your debts or fix your credit file, call the free service first and compare what you are being offered.
Frequently asked questions
Is it really free?
Yes. Financial counselling in Australia is government and community funded, delivered by qualified counsellors at no cost regardless of your circumstances.
Will it affect my credit file?
Speaking to a counsellor does not. What they help you arrange - a hardship variation, for example - may be recorded, but that is far better than default listings.
When should I call?
As soon as you can see a problem coming. Options narrow considerably once arrears build, and the earliest calls produce the best outcomes.
Related reading
- Financial Hardship: Your Rights Before You Miss a Payment
- Loan Restructuring Options Before You Miss a Payment
- Payday Loans and SACCs: Why They Cost So Much
Sources
- Free financial counselling — ASIC Moneysmart
- National Debt Helpline — Financial Counselling Australia
Information current as at 2 September 2026.
General advice warning: This article contains general information only. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs, and it is not personal credit or financial advice. Consider whether it is appropriate for you and seek advice from a licensed credit representative before acting.
Any interest rate shown is an example only and is not an offer of credit. Where a rate is quoted, the applicable comparison rate is available from the relevant lender and should be considered alongside it.
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