Demand for support via the National Debt Helpline hits a six-year high
More than 168,000 people reached out for support via the National Debt Helpline (NDH) during the 2024-25 financial year, making it the free service’s biggest year since 2018-19.
Coordinator of the NDH Vicki Staff said it shows just how hard cost-of-living pressures are hitting Australians.
“Many of life’s essentials are just more expensive than they used to be. Our financial counsellors are hearing from many people struggling to pay for their utility bills and housing,” Ms Staff said.
“These people are very distressed and worried about their financial future and families.”
People seek support from NDH’s confidential and professional financial counsellors via the 1800 007 007 phone line, as well as via the live chat function on ndh.org.au.
Self-help guides on a range of topics are also available on the website.
“We want people to know there is free support available. Please reach out for help if you’re worried about your finances,” Ms Staff said.
People contact the NDH about a variety of financial concerns, but the top issues during 2024-25 were:
- Housing stress (mortgage, rent, rates and body corporate)
- Utilities
- Credit card debt
- Personal loans
- ATO debt
Notably, demand has remained high throughout the start of the new financial year, with more than 15,000 people seeking support in July 2025.
Specific state and territory data can be found on the NDH website’s data portal.
Note to media:
Please include the following contact details at the end of stories on financial hardship to ensure your readers, viewers and listeners know how to seek free and independent assistance.
Anyone who is struggling financially can contact the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 or visit ndh.org.au for self-help and chat.
For further information or to arrange an interview contact Maura Angle on 0418 334 121 or email [email protected]