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Financial hardship and managing money

A list of available resources if you’re worried about money or have a debt after transitioning off the workers compensation scheme.

You're reading the English version of this page. It's available in multiple languages.

After transitioning off the workers compensation scheme, some people can face financial hardship.

If you’re worried about money or have a debt, we have put together a list of resources available to you.

The sooner you get help and advice, the more options you will have.

The following resources are grouped into categories. All contact details can be found at the end of this page.

Immediate help

If you need urgent help, there are organisations that can help with immediate living expenses. Expenses covered can range from food to rent, clothing to budgeting help. The following providers can help with living expenses or connect you to them.

  • Department of Social Services
  • Salvation Army
  • St Vincent de Paul

You can also contact your local church or community organisation for more providers.

Financial and legal services

If you have difficulty with mortgage repayments or a loan, there is free financial advice available. The following providers can help with budgeting, borrowing, credit and mortgage debt.

  • Financial Counselling Victoria
  • Gambler's Help
  • Legal Aid Australia
  • MoneySmart
  • National Debt Helpline
  • Services Australia

Financial hardship

The following providers can help with advice, loan options and early access to super.

  • Australian Financial Complaints Authority
  • Australian Taxation Office
  • Low-income loans Australia
  • No interest loan scheme

You can also contact your bank for help.

Energy and water

If you’re struggling to pay a bill, all energy and water companies have a hardship program you can access. This includes payment plans, help with water/energy usage and cheaper plans. You may be eligible to apply for the Victorian Government’s utility relief grant scheme. The following provider can help you.

  • Energy and Water Ombudsman Victoria

Full provider list

Immediate help

Financial and legal services

Financial hardship

Energy and water

For more information

Transition support  

Assists injured workers who are no longer entitled to compensation benefits.

WorkSafe Advisory

WorkSafe Advisory is available between 8:00 am and 5:30 pm, Monday to Friday.

1800 136 089 More contact options

Translating and interpreting service

Call 131 450 to translate this information or to speak to WorkSafe in your language.

For more information about this free service, visit Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National).

For people with hearing or speech loss

An effective way for you to contact us is using the National Relay Service.