No-interest loans are available through some government programs and charities to help people on low incomes get by in times of financial hardship.
Skip to: No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS)Advance Payments from CentrelinkNo Interest Loans Scheme (NILS)
Good Shepherd and NAB further facilitate the No Interest Loans Scheme (NILS). The scheme provides individuals and families on low incomes with access to safe, fair and affordable credit. It is delivered by a network of over 170 community organisations in over 600 locations throughout Australia.
Loans can be used for essential goods and services such as white goods (fridges, washing machines), car repairs and medical procedures for up to $1,500. Repayments are set at an affordable amount over 12 to 18 months.
To find a NILS provider near you visit www.nils.com.au or call 13 NILS (13 64 57). For more information, please read our full directory listing on Infoqore.
Advance Payments from Centrelink
If you receive an income support payment (like the Disability Support Pension, Age Pension, Carer or JobSeeker payment etc.) or Family Tax Benefit (Part A) from Services Australia (Centrelink), you may be able to apply for an advance payment. This means you would get a lump sum payment from funds you would normally be entitled to and which you would have to pay back via deductions in your future payments.
The amount and frequency of advance payments you can get depend on your circumstances. The amount you repay each fortnight will be the advance amount divided by 13. This is because you will repay the advance over 13 fortnights.
For more information including full eligibility criteria and links to apply online, phone Centrelink or visit Services Australia - Advance Payment. You can call the Disability, Sickness and Carers Line on 132 717.
