A new early intervention program to reduce mortgage and financial stress for Melton residents will be rolled out next year.
The Melton Mortgage Wellbeing Service, which will provide legal and financial advice, is a joint-venture of the Brimbank Melton Community Legal Centre, Community West and Djerriwarrh Health Services.
More than 26 per cent of Melton residents are in financial stress, Djerriwarrh Health Services acting chief executive David Grace said.
“Once people access this service, they will be able to access a range of services, including financial counselling, social work support and legal advice,” he said.
Australian Financial Security Authority figures released this month reveal the western suburbs had the state’s highest rate of bankruptcies in the past financial year, with unemployment still the leading cause.
Although the number of Melton residents declaring bankruptcy has remained stable, the figure jumped by 36 per cent for postcode 3337, which covers Hillside, Calder Park, Delahey, Sydenham and Taylors Hill.
In the year to June 30, 50 residents declared bankruptcy and 13 entered debt agreements. About 1200 Victorians sought bankruptcy advice from MoneyHelp’s telephone financial counselling service. To contact the service, call 1800 007 007.
