MORWELL, Australia - Feb. 2, 2020 - People on low incomes in the Latrobe Valley can now access free, independent financial support at Morwell's non-profit Good Money store, operated by the Good Shepherd charity, in partnership with the Victorian Government and NAB.

Good Shepherd CEO Stella Avramopoulos encouraged Latrobe Valley locals experiencing financial stress to access the Good Money store for financial counselling and information on low interest and no interest loans.

"Millions of Australians are under financial stress and financial counselling services are under enormous pressure, with about 40 per cent of people turned away," Ms Avramopoulos said.

"We want people on low incomes to be able to access financial expertise and support when and where they need it."

Morwell's Good Money store is in addition to 17 financial counsellors employed by Good Shepherd in metro and regional areas across Victoria.

Morwell financial counsellor Holley Dumble said the rise of payday lenders and buy-now pay-later schemes had caught many people in debt traps.




"When you're going through tough times, a payday loan or paying later can seem like a good idea but I see people juggling multiple loans and drowning in late fees," Ms Dumble said.

"My role is to provide free, independent and confidential advice and help people create a plan to tackle their debts and get their finances under control."

"For unexpected emergencies, a no interest or low interest loan through the Good Money store in Morwell is a safe and affordable alternative."

Ms Dumble said financial counsellors can also help negotiate repayments to banks, credit and utility companies.




"Some of my clients come for one session to review their budget or bills, others need ongoing support. Regardless of the circumstances, our focus is on empowering people to take control of their money and helping them to create a brighter financial future."

Bushfire relief

Ms Avramopoulos said people in bushfire affected areas could also contact Good Money for advice on affordable loans.

"In response to the fire disaster, we have simplified the application process for our No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS) and increased the limit to $2000," she said.

FIND OUT MORE

Morwell Good Money financial counselling – visit the store, phone 1300 148 028 or email fcvic@godshep.org.au.

Good Shepherd's NILS Bushfire Relief Policy - https://nils.com.au/bushfire-relief-policy

Other support for Victorians affected by bushfires - https://fcrc.devapp.com.au/victorian-bushfire-assistance

Media Contact: Tammy Shipperley | Sequel PR | 0403 090 914

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