Free, confidential money and debt help for LGBTIQA+ people and people living with HIV.
Our financial counsellors can help you build a budget, sort out which bills to pay first, set up payment plans with creditors, deal with debt collectors and apply for fines relief.
Positive Living Centre
Thorne Harbour Health
Cost
Support without judgement
Money stress rarely comes alone. Our counsellors understand how discrimination, family rejection, health and HIV can affect work, housing and income. You won't be judged for your debts, and you won't need to explain who you are.
How we help
What we can help with
- Understanding your income, spending and debts
- Making a budget that works for you
- Deciding which bills and debts to pay first
- Setting up payment plans and hardship arrangements with the people you owe (creditors)
- Dealing with debt collectors and knowing your rights
- Options for managing serious debt
- Clearing fines through a Work and Development Permit
- Connecting with legal, housing, health and emergency support
What we can't help with
Financial counselling isn't financial planning or legal advice. We don't help with business debts or tax returns, but we can refer you to services that do.
Our Services
LGBTIQA+ Financial Counselling
For LGBTIQA+ people who need help with bills, debt or budgeting. Delivered through our Therapeutic Services team in Abbotsford, in person, by phone or online. Free, with a limited number of sessions. Not for business debts or tax returns.
HIV Financial Counselling (David Williams Fund)
For people living with HIV, through the David Williams Fund (DWF) at the Positive Living Centre in South Yarra. You'll need a letter confirming your HIV status to start, for example from your doctor. In person, by phone or online.
FAQs
Financial counselling doesn't provide money, but the David Williams Fund offers emergency assistance to eligible people living with HIV.
Usually around one month for a first appointment. We'll be in touch once we receive your referral.
The number of sessions is limited. Your counsellor will talk with you about what you need at your first appointment.
Email financialcounselling@thorneharbour.org or call (03) 9865 6700 to discuss a referral.
Related Services
Find other services.
NDIS
Support for all LGBTIQA+ people living with disability.
Living with HIV
Support, community and practical services to help you live well with HIV.
Mental Health
Affirmative counselling for issues like depression and anxiety.
Alcohol & Other Drugs
Free, LGBTIQA+ affirming support to help you change your relationship with alcohol or other drugs.
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