Bunbury financial counsellors here to help

With uncertainty surrounding the time period for COVID-19 restrictions, a Bunbury financial counsellor wants people to know they are not facing financial burdens alone.

Anglicare Bunbury financial counsellor Tarryn Mackean, pictured, said to better manage their money, people should know their basic expenses and try to have a clear understanding of what their income would be.

“Work out what bills you can negotiate to put on hold and see if you can balance your income and expenses with what money is left,” Ms Mackean said.

We don’t know how long the pandemic is going to last so it’s best to be very conservative with spending and whatever you do, do not take out a new credit card or a pay-day loan to try to cover costs, you’ll only get further into debt.

Ms Mackean said everyone would be feeling some anxiety regarding finances right now, but emergency relief was still available if they had no money for food.

“Financial counselling is free and we can negotiate on your behalf with banks and creditors,” Ms Mackean said.

If you become really anxious, pick up the phone and call a helpline such as Beyond Blue and Crisis Care, they can help talk you through the situation.

Ms Mackean said it was important for those who lost their jobs to remember they were not alone and support was available.

“Firstly, find out what assistance you’re entitled to through Centrelink, then talk to your bank to get any mortgage or loan re-payments put on hold,” she said.

“Once you have confirmed your incomings and outgoings, prepare a basic budget to see how you can make your income stretch.

“If you’re not sure where to begin, reach out to Anglicare WA in the South West. Our financial counsellors can help you budget with a phone consultation.

“Every financial counsellor has a lot of information to share and they can also advocate and negotiate on a client’s behalf.”