Support in times of financial stress

Money worries can feel heavy. They creep into your thoughts, disrupt your sleep and make even small decisions feel overwhelming. But financial stress doesn’t have to define your future. With the right support, you can ease the pressure and regain control.

Three steps you can take  

1. Book a call with a CSC Super Specialist

   Receive general advice to help you plan. 

2. Call the National Debt Helpline

   Free, confidential advice to manage debt and stress.

3. Consider early access

   You may be able to access super earlier on compassionate and other hardship grounds (strict ATO eligibility conditions apply). 

What support looks like in real life

When unexpected medical bills and rising living costs left Sarah struggling, she felt ashamed to ask for help. But when she discovered CSC’s resources, she realised the many practical steps she could take to rebuild financial stability.

First, Sarah booked an online call with a CSC Super Specialist to get some clarity about her super. The 30-minute two-way conversation wasn’t an extra cost for Sarah (it’s included in her super), but it meant she had space to ask questions and learn more about the CSC tools and resources available to her. 

Next, she reached out to the National Debt Helpline and received free, confidential advice that helped her develop a plan and restructure her debts. They reminded her to consider other free resources such as MoneySmart.gov.au to learn how to set goals and manage money; and to reach out to Beyond Blue to protect her mental wellbeing from cost of living pressures.

Then Sarah applied through the ATO to access her super due to financial hardship. Sarah met the strict ATO eligibility conditions that allowed some of her super to be released, and was finally able to fund some urgent expenses.

While Sarah worried it was too late to recover, CSC showed her it wasn’t. With combined support, Sarah began to see a path forward. 

Real support can change your situation

Financial hardship can feel daunting. These supports are designed to help you rebuild financial stability, protect your wellbeing, and refocus on your future. 

Find out more at csc.gov.au/life

Any financial product advice provided is general only and may not be right for you. You may wish to seek financial advice before making any key decisions. CSC provides members with access to authorised financial planners* who provide personalised fee-for-service financial advice. For further information visit csc.gov.au/advice

*CSC financial planners are authorised to provide advice by Guideway Financial Services (ABN 46 156 498 538, AFSL 420367).