Small business owners are the backbone to the Australian economy however many are experiencing significant financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disaster events. The Australian Government’s Small Business Debt Helpline assists small businesses in financial distress across Australia, regardless of the cause of the hardship.
The Australian Government is investing $2.1 million in the Small Business Debt Helpline delivered by Financial Counselling Australia (FCA).
The Small Business Debt Helpline is a dedicated small business financial counselling service offering free, independent, and confidential phone-based support to small business owners nationally.
Support is provided across a range of complex issues including:
- avoiding bankruptcy
- negotiating payment plans
- debt waivers
- grant applications
- insolvency.
Small business owners needing extra support will be referred to the right service for them, including mental health support.
The Small Business Debt Helpline replaces the Small Business Bushfire Financial Counselling Support Line. This builds on the Australian Government’s previous $3.5 million investment in 2020 to establish the Small Business Bushfire Financial Counselling Support Line delivered by FCA as part of the Government’s response to the devastating 2019-20 bushfires.
All small business owners across Australia can access the Small Business Debt Helpline by calling 1800 413 828 between 9am and 5.30pm Monday to Friday AEDT.
For more information visit www.business.gov.au