Who can help

Information about who you can turn to for help with credit problems

There are a number of agencies and organisations able to provide help if you find yourself in financial difficulty.

Your lender

If you are struggling financially, your credit provider may be prepared to help you by extending payment deadlines and allowing you to make reduced payments and/or skip late fees. There is a formal procedure known as 'hardship variation' which might apply in your cirsumstances.

Consumer Protection

If you are experiencing short-term financial difficulty and are having trouble paying bills or meeting minimum monthly repayments, you may be eligible to obtain 'credit relief' from Consumer Protection. Credit relief involves Consumer Protection intervening on your behalf to negotiate a change of contract with your lender to better suit your needs. The Credit Relief Hotline is 1300 30 40 54.

Financial counsellor

If you experience long-term financial difficulty or need help saving money or paying off debts, a financial counsellor may be able to help you get your financial affairs back on track. The industry peak body, the Financial Counsellors Association of Western Australia, can help you to locate your nearest qualified financial counsellor, and FCAWA members offer a free and confidential service. (In addition, the community-based Finance Counsellors Resource Project provides legal advice, casework support, information and resources.)

Consumer Credit Legal Service WA (CCLS)

The CCLS is the principal agency within Western Australia that provides free advice, information and counselling on credit-related issues, including finance, credit contracts, credit cards, mortgages etc.

Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS)

The FOS provides accessible, fair and independent dispute resolution for consumers and financial services providers. It offers free advice and assistance and deals with complaints about many lenders and members of the financial services industry.