Connecting you with the help you need
Being in debt is not a moral failing. People can find themselves in debt for a number of reasons, many of which can be outside of our control. Regardless of the cause, being in significant debt can be overwhelming and scary. The good news is there are many supports and systems to help manage and reduce debt.
This page explores those supports, whether it be short-term aid to help you navigate a difficult period, or longer-term assistance to help you manage or expert advocacy to help you take control of your debt and your life.
Engaging external services
Valuable community services exist to help with cost of living. Some are shown below with a grey background and black button.
Student financial support
Griffith provides a wide range of services and supports to assist you with the many challenges that come with study and life.
The student financial support page is the hub of the financial support we provide. Here you can find out about:
- scholarships
- emergency support
- Career Achievers Program
- working while studying
- career development and opportunities.
Emergency financial assistance at Griffith
Immediate and urgent financial help available at Griffith University.
Griffith financial hardship bursary
If you're experiencing extreme financial difficulty, you may be eligible for a student financial support bursary.
This one-off payment helps cover education-related expenses, so you can focus on your studies.
Emergency grocery vouchers
Depending on your campus, you can request an emergency $50 food voucher from the Gold Coast Student Guild or the SRC - GUPSA .
Guild and SRC emergency support
Depending on your campus, either the Gold Coast Student Guild or the SRC-GUPSA can provide you with temporary practical supports to meet your essential needs and help you get back on your feet.
Advice for international students
International Student Advisors (ISA) can assist with many of the situations you may be facing as a student living, working and studying in Queensland. This includes how your situation might impact your student visa.
If you are having problems with paying your tuition fees, it is important you speak with an ISA to discuss your options.
Message to international students
If you are an international student experiencing issues with debt, it is important you connect with an International Student Advisor.
Emergency financial assistance in the community
Find out about welfare services in your local area.
Neighbourhood Centres
Neighbourhood Centres are local community hubs that provide practical support to people in need.
Everyone is welcome and anyone can ask for help.
My Community Directory
My Community Directory is a database of up-to-date information for community organisations in Queensland. Search for local services in your area.
Emergency relief
The Emergency Relief Program supports Queenslanders in financial crisis. The program provides access to food, transport and essential items to those in need.
Get help from a local charity
There are hundreds of charities in Queensland that support our local communities.
The site below includes a searchable list of local charities and the types of support they provide.
Get debt under control
Being in debt can be stressful, especially if you are not able to make repayments. If you find yourself in this situation, it is important you are proactive and get your debt under control.
The good news is there are many options to help you manage and reduce debt as well as supports to help you make that happen. And the best time to start is now!
The MoneySmart website include strategies for managing debt, and services to help with food, bills, housing, and emotional support.
Unable to pay your bills? Received a fine you can't afford?
It can be scary to have debt and fines you cannot afford to pay, especially if money is already tight.
Thankfully there are some simple steps you can take to relieve some of the pressure and take control of the situation.
Need help resolving your financial troubles?
Financial counselling is a free and confidential service offered by not-for-profit community organisations. These skilled professionals can provide advice and support to help get you sort out your money problems.
The sooner you seek help, the sooner you will find a solution.
Are you in crisis or struggling to make ends meet?
Personal and financial issues are often closely related and it can be hard to know where to turn.
This can feel overwhelming but it is important to remember you don't have to go it alone. There are services to help you with food, housing and bills, and emotional support.
Financial advice
Free and independent financial advice to help you deal with debt and other issues.
Griffith Tax Clinic
The tax clinic is a student-lead service offering free tax advice and information to the public.
They can provide assistance regarding dealing with tax issues, penalties and negotiating payment plans.
In trouble with debt and need help?
Financial counsellors help you get out of trouble with and manage your current bills, fines and debts. Many community organisations across Australia are funded to provide free financial counselling.
Looking for help with your tax return?
The Australian Tax Office (ATO) offers a free Tax Help program for eligible people earning $60,000 or less lodge their tax return online.
Returning to your home country?
The Australian Tax Office (ATO) has information for what to do when you leave Australia if you worked here, including lodging your tax return and claiming super.
Support for wellbeing
Check out our Online Health and Wellness Centre for affordable and accessible resources
Understanding your rights (and responsibilities)
Helping you to become informed about the law and what it means for your situation.
Queensland Ombudsman
The Queensland Ombudsman investigates complaints about the actions and decisions of Queensland agencies, including state government departments, local councils, public universities and government authorities.
Confused by the law? Looking for a clear explanation?
These resources explain how the law works, your rights and obligations and what to do when you believe an incorrect decision has been made or you have been discriminated against.
Need help fighting for your consumer rights?
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority helps those in financial hardship sort out disagreements about loans, insurance, banks, investments and superannuation. They also have information on rights and processes for dispute resolution.
Legal help and advocacy
Free expert information and support for dealing with complex situations.
Free legal advice
MoneySmart provides links to free legal services, which can assist with issues such as fines, credit and debt, parenting orders, family violence and child protection.
Legal Aid Queensland
Legal Aid helps financially disadvantaged people with criminal, family and civil law matters. They work with and fund lawyers who deliver legal services to people in Queensland.
Challenging a Centrelink decision?
Basic Rights Queensland provides information and advice on how to deal with Centrelink issues and appeal decisions.