Fair Trading Minister Virginia Judge today said the state government had provided $1.78 million from the state budget to fund 58 No Interest Loans Scheme (NILS®) services across the state.

Ms Judge said no interest loans helped families keep cars on the road, buy washing machines and refrigerators, computers for children and other essential items to support family stability and success.

“The scheme is a vital safety net for many people who would otherwise turn to credit cards or loan sharks with high interest rates and fees, setting them on an endless spiral of unmanageable debt,” she said.

“Mature-aged workers, long-term unemployed parents, people with disabilities, refugees, migrants, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and young people have all benefitted from NILS®.

“Since the scheme commenced in late 2008, more than 4,803 loans worth more than $3.6 million have been provided.”

Ms Judge said the state government knew people were doing it tough.

“We have a clear and ongoing commitment to support families and individuals in real need,” she said.

“Through NILS®, the state government has partnered with National Australia Bank, which funds the program at $15 million nationally and our community partners, Good Shepherd Youth and Family Services.

“A range of corporate partners are working with us to help address significant social and financial disadvantage in the community.”

To apply for a NILS® loan, call 1800 509 994.

More information can viewed at this website.

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