Better Budgeting help on the way for Rockhampton residents

Two new financial counsellors will help residents in Rockhampton, Biloela, Moura and Gladstone to keep their bottom line in the black, as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s $31 million Better Budgeting program.

During her visit to Rockhampton today, Communities Minister Shannon Fentiman said Uniting Care Queensland will receive $600,000 to deliver financial support to Rockhampton residents while Anglicare Central Queensland will receive more than $1.5 million to help people in Biloela, Moura and Gladstone.

“Making ends meet and worrying about money is a problem that affects many Queenslanders,” Ms Fentiman said.

“That’s why it’s vital we give Central Queenslanders the tools to develop and maintain a household budget, negotiate with creditors, link them to specialist financial counselling support and help them to access low-cost loans, instead of turning to shonky and irresponsible payday lenders.

“We make no apologies for tackling unscrupulous lenders head-on.

“But we also need to provide an alternative to payday lenders so vulnerable families can access short-term loans at reasonable rates.

“The better budgeting support we are providing through financial counsellors, no interest loans and Good Money stores is about support people who need a hand – not making their situation worse to make a buck.”

Uniting Care Queensland CEO Anne Cross congratulated the Queensland Government for their commitment to regional Queenslanders facing financial hardship.

“We welcome the Queensland Government’s announcement today to provide funding for services to support people impacted by cost of living pressures,” Ms Cross said.

“Uniting Care Queensland is committed to ensuring Queenslanders experiencing financial hardship have access to the support they need to get back on their feet.”

Ms Fentiman said financial counsellors will also assist people to access a wide range of supports and services, including utility subsidies, Gambling Help services and community legal centres.

“Getting financially fit benefits all Queenslanders and reducing income equality to help vulnerable people is a great way of boosting our economy,” Ms Fentiman said.

“That’s why we’re investing in dedicated local financial experts who will provide advice to help local residents get their finances back on track.

“People may be eligible to access additional emergency financial relief, with more than $250,000 available across Queensland through this new program.

“I encourage anyone who feels they could benefit from a little extra financial help to get in touch with Uniting Care and Anglicare from March 1, when the services are up and running.”

Media Contact:

Minister Fentiman                               0400 774 303

Uniting Care Queensland                    0412 674 013