Where to seek advice in uncertain times

The COVID-19 pandemic is a global crisis and people the world over are experiencing impacts in their lives as a result. To keep your anxieties about money to a minimum, find out where you can turn for help to secure your finances and income.

With the ongoing escalation of the COVID-19 crisis many people are struggling. Huge changes are happening and we’re all being affected, socially, emotionally and financially. If your ability to work and earn an income has already been affected, you’re likely to be worried about how you’re going to cover your bills and mortgage and pay for the essentials your family need.

Where to get help

Whether you’re facing an immediate shortage of money or are worried about covering expenses in the weeks and months to come, your bank or financial institution is just one of the places you can turn for help. Economic stimulus packages from federal and state governments have already been announced. The type of help they’re providing for people and businesses in financial distress is changing all the time to keep up with the economic situation.

Here are some of the most relevant, reliable sources of information on financial support available during the COVID-19 pandemic:

Australian Government Treasury: Economic Response to the Coronavirus

https://treasury.gov.au/coronavirus – Details of support the Federal Government is providing to households and businesses to address the significant economic consequences of the Coronavirus.

Australian Taxation Office COVID-19 Information

https://www.ato.gov.au/Individuals/Dealing-with-disasters/In-detail/Specific-disasters/COVID-19/ – the ATO has introduced a number of measures to support business owners with managing their tax payments.

Australian Government Services COVID-19 Information

https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/subjects/affected-coronavirus-covid-19 – information from Medicare and Centrelink for people experiencing financial issues.

Support available across the states and territories

https://www.business.gov.au/Risk-management/Emergency-management/Coronavirus-information-and-support-for-business/Coronavirus-state-and-territory-assistance-and-events – Find the latest coronavirus information, grants and support in your state or territory.