On Thursday 25 July ABC Radio Melbourne are dedicating a day to practical advice for people struggling with the cost-of-living. From 5:30am – 6:30pm Bring Your Bills will feature a range of financial experts, services, special guests and listener case studies, all aimed at helping those in need.
Sammy J on breakfast will be joined by Peter McNamara, CEO of South East Community Links, a division that supports vulnerable members who are seeking financial counselling and emergency relief.
Mornings with Raf Epstein will host a panel featuring the Barefoot Investor Scott Pape and qualified financial counsellors.
Trevor Chappell in the afternoon will focus on mental health when experiencing financial pressure and Ali Moore will explore solutions for utilities hardship.
Listeners are encouraged to share their experiences via an online form, so that ABC Radio Melbourne can help seek solutions throughout the day.
Local Manager at ABC Radio Melbourne, Mary-Jane Fenech said:
“We hear stories from our listeners who can’t afford food, rent and many basic needs. We think it’s important for them to know there are services across Victoria that can help. As the cost-of-living crisis takes its toll on Melbournians, Bring Your Bills will provide practical advice to help listeners navigate these tough times.”
Peter Gartlan co-CEO of Financial Counselling Australia, which coordinates the National Debt Helpline said they’d seen a huge increase in Victorians calling them for help:
“Sadly, demand in the six months to June this year was 64 per cent higher than the same period two years ago, when interest rates started rising. Contact via the online chat service is also increasing dramatically.
We want people to know financial counsellors are here to help navigate these financial challenges.”
ABC Radio Melbourne Bring Your Bills, Thursday July 25, 2024 schedule:
• Breakfast with Sammy J, 5.30am to 8am
• Mornings with Raf Epstein, 8.30am to 11am
• Afternoons with Trevor Chappell, 12.30pm to 3.30pm
• Drive with Ali Moore, 3.30pm to 6.30pm
You can listen via ABC Radio Melbourne, the ABC listen app and follow the ABC Radio Melbourne Socials.