Help if I can't pay
Advice on what to do if you’re struggling to pay your loans, debts or bills, plus services and resources to help with your specific situation.
Owing money or falling behind on repayments can be stressful. It can be hard to know where to turn to, but you don’t have to go it alone. If you are having trouble meeting any repayments or paying your bills, there are many resources and organisations that may help you manage your debt.
Cost of living support from NSW government
We can help you make the most of your money with tips and tools, easy ways to stretch your budget, and access to trusted advice and support backed by the NSW Government.
To find support relevant to you:
- use the cost of living hub to find rebates and vouchers
- book an appointment with Service NSW to visit a Service Centre and talk to a specialist
- contact Service NSW by phone or email.
Where to go for help
- Our page on debt collection helps you to know what to do if you are approached by a commercial agent to collect a debt, repossess goods or serve legal documents.
- MoneySmart is an Australian Government website with lots of free, unbiased information and tools to help with your finances.
- National Debt Helpline provides free financial counselling, information, advice and referrals. Call 1800 007 007.
- Centrelink provides financial support to people eligible for income support. If you are experiencing financial hardship due to exceptional circumstances, you may be eligible for a crisis payment.
- Financial Counsellors' Association is the industry body that represents and supports NSW financial counsellors. Visit Get Help - FCAN for further information.
- Legal Aid can help with your credit and debt problems and determine if you qualify for further assistance. It also has information on mortgage stress. Phone 1300 888 529.
- Australian Financial Security Authority provides information on bankruptcy and its alternatives. Call 1300 364 785.
Making a complaint
When making a complaint, you should include:
- details of the issues you are experiencing
- copies of any correspondence that shows how you have tried to resolve the matter.
How Fair Trading will handle your complaint
Your complaint will be reviewed to determine the most appropriate resolution. This may include:
- providing you with information to help resolve your complaint
- recording the complaint issues to assist in future compliance programs, or
- contacting the other party to try and resolve the dispute.
You can lodge a complaint:
Online
If you cannot resolve your matter, submit your complaint by using our form.
By mail
Post your complaint form and documentation to:
NSW Fair Trading
PO Box 972
Parramatta NSW 2124
Ask a question
If you are unable to find the information you need, you can call us between 8:30am to 5pm on Monday to Friday. You can also use our form to make an enquiry.