Free legal help for Queenslanders feeling mortgage squeeze

Legal Aid Queensland is encouraging people to talk to their lenders and service providers if they are struggling to make ends meet, as increasing interest rates and cost of living pressures start to hit household budgets.

Consumer law expert Loretta Kreet said it was important for people to understand the options available to them if things are tight financially and to get help quickly.

“The first step is to talk to your lender about your mortgage and all of your other loans, credit cards and Buy Now Pay Later products, and talk about the options available in your particular case,” she said.

Kym Briese (left) and Margaret Lyons (right) from Briese Lawyers discuss with Amy Goldsmid from Toowoomba Hospice what sponsorship packages are available for the Hospice 20th Anniversary Gala Dinner in 2023.

Administration and Fundraising Manager Mark Munro said preparations have started for the 20th Anniversary Gala Dinner on Saturday 1st July 2023 at the Oaks Hotel.

“Our Administration and Events Assistant Amy is on a mission to secure some sponsorships, of which there are four different types of packages available, and I am delighted to say we have secured Briese Lawyers who didn’t hesitate to jump on board,” Mr Munro said.

Principal of Briese Lawyers Ms. Kym Briese said she is so proud to support the Toowoomba Hospice.

“We are proud supporters of Toowoomba Hospice and were honoured when asked to be a sponsor of the Toowoomba Hospice Gala Dinner.

“We have experienced first-hand the special kind of quality, compassionate care that many of our clients and their families have experienced through the work of Toowoomba Hospice.

“We are fortunate to have this facility in our community and through the support of businesses like ours, we hope that Toowoomba Hospice can continue to support those in need well into the future.”

To be part of the sponsors of this wonderful milestone in 2023 contact Amy or Mark on 07 4659 8500 or events@ toowoombahospice.org.au

“The earlier you talk to your lender, the more assistance they are usually able to provide. You should also talk to your local council if you’re struggling with rates, your body corporate if fees are an issue, and your water and electricity providers to ask about their hardship policies, which can help you get your bills back on track.”

Ms Kreet said many people didn’t realise there were consumer protection laws that gave borrowers the right to access hardship provisions if they are struggling to repay their loans.

“Many lenders and service providers are legally required to offer help to people experiencing hardship, which means you can negotiate with your lender to increase the length of the loan or suspend or reduce your payments until you’re back on track financially,” she said.

“But it’s important to note that not all lenders or service providers are covered by these laws, so sometimes we see people who are able to negotiate a repayment plan for their mortgage, but their house ends up being sold due to unpaid body corporate fees or council rates.

“It can be really hard to talk to someone if you’re struggling financially. Asking for help is hard. But if your finances are really tight, we encourage you to talk to us so you understand the legal protections that are available to you.”

Legal Aid Queensland also has a free legal information guide “Are you struggling to pay a loan?”, available to read online, which explains your rights when negotiating with lenders and service providers if you’re struggling financially.

You can also order a free hard copy of the guide at www. legalaid.qld.gov.au

If you are struggling to pay a loan and need legal advice call Legal Aid Queensland on 1300 65 11 88 or visit www.legalaid. qld.gov.au

Nominations open for volunteering awards

Do you know someone who deserves recognition for their volunteer work? Now is the time to nominate them for the 2023 Queensland Volunteering Awards. honour the astonishing contribution and spirit of service of all Queensland volunteers and volunteer involving organisations. The Awards are presented across six categories:

During National Volunteer Week 15-21 May 2023, volunteers from all over Queensland will be recognised at the Queensland Volunteering Awards at Brisbane City Hall.

In a year that continues to see so much uncertainty with the continued disruption of COVID-19, devastating natural disasters and rising costs of living, the one thing Queenslanders have been able to count on is the selfless generosity, hard work and commitment of our extraordinary volunteers who have worked tirelessly to support their communities.

Queensland’s volunteers have always been the life force of their communities, extending helping hands and fostering vital human connections that give hope and meaning to the lives of others.

Despite the fall in volunteering in formal settings, informal volunteering continues to thrive, often hiding in the shadows of sporting clubs, schools and charities.

The Queensland Volunteering Awards acknowledge and

•Queensland Volunteer of the Year Award

•Queensland Youth Volunteer of the Year Award

•Queensland Lifetime Contribution to Volunteering Award

•Queensland Excellence in Volunteer Management Award

•Queensland Volunteering Impact Award

• Queensland Corporate Volunteering Award

Volunteering Queensland CEO Mara Basanovic said nominations are welcomed and encouraged from all members and sectors of the community.

“Queenslanders are generous, compassionate, and supportive of one another and their local and wider communities,” Mr Basanovic said.

To nominate someone, visit volunteeringqld.org.au/initiatives/ queensland-volunteering-awards/