Member for Monaro, Steve Whan said the NSW Minister for Fair Trading, Linda Burney, reported to NSW Parliament recently that two local organisations would receive funding to support their services, including:

• Almost $18,000 to Care Incorporated for the Monaro region, Yass Valley and Goulburn; and

• Almost $30,000 for the Salvation Army Moneycare project in Goulburn.

“This funding will go to provide much needed financial counselling services in south-eastern NSW,” Mr Whan said.

“The rising cost of petrol, mortgage repayments, the ongoing drought and general increases in the cost of living have put pressure on local family budgets.

“This funding delivers on that commitment and will give more local working families a helping hand in balancing their budget.”

Mr Whan said the Iemma Government would also provide an extra $100,000 to train more financial counsellors.

“This local service is under pressure with families facing increasing difficulties making ends meet,” Mr Whan said.

“But they need to know that they’re not alone and as soon as they find themselves in trouble they should seek help and advice.”

To find your closest financial counsellor, contact the Office of Fair Trading on 13 32 20 or visit www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au.