Financial counselling for Victorian small business during lockdown
Small businesses affected by current lockdown measures in Victoria can access free help from small business financial counsellors.
Specialist small business financial counsellors help people to understand business debts and the implications of personal guarantees, as well as connect business owners with supports and grants that may be available.
They can also provide information about closing a business (including insolvency options) and give advice about other business matters, such as insurance claims.
“Lockdowns have an enormous effect on business and daily life. Many Victorian small business owners will be hit hard by this, so it’s important for them to know how to access support from financial counsellors,” said Dr Sandy Ross, Executive Officer of Financial Counselling Victoria.
Small businesses in Victoria can contact the Small Business Debt Helpline (a national service), or the Victorian Government’s Partners in Wellbeing – Small Business Support for free, confidential and independent advice.
- Small Business Debt Helpline – Call 1800 413 828 or visit sbdh.org.au for online chat, 9:30am – 4:30pm weekdays
- Partners in Wellbeing – Call 1300 375 330 or for online chat visit partnersinwellbeing.org.au/small-business-support, 9am – 10pm weekdays and 9am – 5pm weekends
“We urge Victorian small businesses to seek support sooner rather than later. The time to act is now, please don’t wait for the bills and debt to get out of control,” said Helen Davis, General Manager of the Small Business Debt Helpline.
“Financial counsellors can play a crucial role in helping people and small businesses recover from the financial impacts of the pandemic,” said Ms Davis.
Individuals struggling financially due to COVID-19 lockdowns can contact the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 or visit ndh.org.au.
It is important to note that financial counsellors are not financial planners or advisors. They do not provide investment advice nor are they lenders.
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