Hannah’s* life and wellbeing were affected by family violence in many ways, including ongoing symptoms of multiple concussions from physical abuse and significant financial challenges due to economic harm.

She contacted Good Shepherd to ask about a loan when she was behind in rent. Hannah’s landlord had served an eviction notice. 

Hannah was working part time and had recently secured a full-time job after building up her physical and psychological capacity to take on more work. This was a recovery milestone for Hannah and would really improve her financial situation. With the new job due to start in two weeks, she could not afford to lose the safety and stability of her home. Without somewhere to live she would likely need to resign. 

We were not able to approve a loan for Hannah because it would be unaffordable. Her experience fleeing family violence had left her with $97,000 owed to government agencies. She was on a repayment plan that would take over 200 years for the debt to be repaid. 

Considering Hannah’s circumstances, we were able to provide a grant for her to pay rent arrears, keep her in her home and keep her recovery on track. We continue to work alongside Hannah and her financial mentor as she rebuilds her life. 

* name has been changed for safety.