Christmas articles

It can be expensive to borrow small amounts of money and borrowing may not solve your money problems.

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Check your options before you borrow:

• For information about other options for managing bills and debts, call 1800 007 007 from anywhere in Australia to talk to a free and independent financial counsellor.
• Talk to your electricity, gas, phone or water provider to see if you can work out a payment plan.
• If you are on government benefits, ask if you can receive an advance from Centrelink: www.humanservices.gov.au/advancepayments.

The Australian Government's MoneySmart website shows you how small amount loans work and suggests other options that may help you.

*This statement is an Australian Government requirement under the National Consumer Credit Protection Act 2009.