With lots of young people experiencing money stress due to the higher cost of living, financial counsellors are likely to play a big role in helping people navigate these tricky times.

Financial counsellors offer free support and advice on a bunch of different money issues. Here are five ways they help people.

DID YOU KNOW: Mob Strong Debt Help can provide support with money-related legal matters in a culturally-sensitive way. You can call them on 1800 808 488

1. Advice if you can’t pay your bills

If you’re struggling to pay electricity, gas or other household bills, a financial counsellor can help to come up with a plan. For example, there may be payment plans available that a counsellor can advise on.

2. Help to manage debt collectors

Debt collectors try to recover money that is owed to organisations and dealing with them can be a stressful process. A financial counsellor can help to advise on strategies when managing debt collectors and let you know what your rights are. In some cases, they may help to draft letters to respond to them.

3. Help dealing with organisations

If you need some advice around how to manage Centrelink, your bank or your phone company, a financial counsellor can help. They frequently advise people on how to manage these conversations and what additional steps can be taken with the individual companies or government agencies.

4. If you can’t pay your rent or home loan

Again, a financial counsellor can help if you’ve fallen behind on your rent or home loan payments. They can also help if your lender or landlord is threatening to repossess or kick you out of your home.

5. Advice on insurance

If you’ve got an insurance-related matter you need support with, a financial counsellor can provide help. These can include health, income and funeral insurance questions or concerns.

Where to find a financial counsellor

The following two services are available for free between 9.30am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday:

For money matters: National Debt Helpline – 1800 007 007

For legal matters related to money: Mob Strong Debt Help – 1800 808 488

If you’re distressed and need to speak to someone, you can always call Lifeline on 13 11 14