Rachel*, a 49-year-old woman, found herself in a difficult financial situation following an injury that left her unable to work in early childhood development. She worked on a casual basis and was not entitled to sick leave or annual leave.

The increasing cost of living was having a devastating impact on Rachel, who often had to depend on charities to access food. While Rachel’s mortgage was not large, rising interest rates made her situation unsustainable. She was relying on Centrelink payments and savings to meet her financial commitments including a mortgage.

Rachel did not regularly rely on credit but had resorted to buy now pay later when she was unable to cover her ongoing expenses including food, petrol, utilities and mortgage. Her financial hardship circumstances affected her mental health, wellbeing and independence. She was faced the reality of possibly losing her home.

South East Community Links provided Rachel with crucial support, creating a plan to respond to her financial situation. Our financial counsellor engaged in advocacy on her behalf, communicating with creditors and the bank to establish repayment plans that Rachel could manage.

Additionally, the financial counsellor guided Rachel on how to use her superannuation income protection insurance, which would help cover her expenses during her inability to work. They also informed her about the availability of utility relief grants and the Power Saving Bonus. This comprehensive approach offered both long-term and short-term solutions to help Rachel stabilise her financial situation.