News

small business | October 25, 2016

Kealy - Financial counselling for small business must continue

The Nationals Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy MP has spoken in Parliament calling for the State Government to provide ongoing funding for small business financial counselling services.

The Rural Financial Counselling Service provides free support to both farmers and, more recently, small businesses that are experiencing hardship as a result of lower income or increased costs.

“Funding for the Small Business Counselling Service will cease in June 2017. I am calling on the Andrew’s Labor Government to provide ongoing security for this important service and commit to an extension of funding as soon as possible,” Ms Kealy said.

“While a relatively new program, the Small Business Counselling Service is providing exceptional support to local small businesses to help them operate as efficiently as possible.

“Small businesses are a major employment sector in western Victoria providing jobs and stimulating our local economy,” she said.

Financial counsellors offer free, confidential and independent advice including support with accessing government assistance packages and developing financial action plans.

“The counsellors do an exceptional job working with people in their own business or home, helping them pull together information to get their finances in order,” Ms Kealy said.

“The Rural Financial Counselling Service continues to provide vital support for local farmers to refine their business model and assist during periods of financial duress,” she said.

For more information on the free services available through Rural Financial Counselling Service Victoria visit www.wswrcs.com.au or phone 1300 735 578.