USASA Financial Counselling
Need help putting the pieces together?
USASA and UniSA want to help you during these difficult days.
Before making an appointment with a financial counsellor, please read the following statements.
*New update* The University has established a dedicated $10 million fund to support those in severe financial circumstances as a result of COVD-19. This fund is now open to all students enrolled for onshore study in UniSA at all levels. We understand that the current situation has impacted many through the loss of employment and other unexpected costs. The fund has been established to assist those most in need of support right now and complements the wide range of support available across the University.
You can access information on this fund, its criteria, and how to apply for support here: Student Hardship Fund.
First, the Commonwealth Government has passed legislation late on 23 March that you may be entitled to. There is a new measure called the ‘Coronavirus Supplement’ and if you are receiving Youth Allowance, Austudy or Abstudy payments you may be eligible for $550/fortnight. To learn more, please click HERE. We recommend that you call or go online, but if you do go in person, we encourage you to follow social distancing advice.
Second, the Department of Social Services has a Grants Service Directory that you can search for service providers who may be able to assist you depending on your situation.
Thirdly, USASA has a Financial Counselling service with a hardship fund recently established to assist those in need during these difficult days.
The USASA Financial Counsellor can help you manage your money and assist in making the pieces of the puzzle fit.
If you are dealing with financial stress related to issues such as debt, rent, utility costs and budgeting problems a USASA financial counsellor may be able to help you. A financial counsellor can help identify your options and give you the information you need.
What can a USASA Financial Counsellor assist you with:
- Accessing emergency food support
- Applying for the grant support program
- Developing a budget to help manage your finances
- Dealing with bad financial standing with the University
- + We can help point you in the right direction to access further financial support and assistance.
Emergency Food Support
Have you just paid lots of bills and putting food on the table is going to be a struggle? Accessing emergency food support may benefit you in more ways than one.
Book an appointment to assist with emergency food support.
Grant Support Program
Uni life is go go go and keeping on top of everything can be exhausting. Financial Counsellors may also be able to help in gaining access to emergency financial support. The Financial Counselling Grant Support Program is now open. To find out more about applying book an appointment below.
Book an appointment to look at your options.
More information regarding Government COVID-19 Support Payments here
Developing a Budget
Developing a budget is about understanding where all your money goes. This is the first step to taking control of your finances and making it work for you. Our Financial Counsellor is available to work through this process one on one and make sure you have the support you need.
Or start developing your budget with this handy template - need a bit of help navigating the process? Book an appointment today.
Book an appointment to start developing your budget.
Bad Financial Standing
If you are in bad financial standing or heading that way we can assist with the preparation of a payment agreement. Financial counsellors can talk to your creditors on your behalf and, where possible, try to negotiate lower payment plans.
Book an appointment to discuss your financial standing.
Download the USASA Financial Counselling Service Charter here
Download the USASA Financial Counselling Program's Conditions of Service 2019 here
Contact a Financial Counsellor
Click here for alternative assistance.
It is strongly advised that students requiring assistance make an appointment to see a Financial Counsellor as soon as possible.
To make an appointment, use the online form or click the button below. The USASA Financial Counsellor is located at the City West Campus, or via Skype, Zoom or telephone.
Book an appointment below:
- Uniting Communities
- Salvation Army
- Anglicare SA
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Please see this list of external links to assist you, especially if you are an international student.
- More information regarding Government COVID-19 Support Payments here
