Debt helpline demand surges to 6-year high

Housing stress has ranked among the biggest problems for Australians calling the National Debt Helpline, as demand for support continues to rise.

Demand for support via the National Debt Helpline has reached a six-year high, with more than 168,000 people reaching out for support during the 2024–25 financial year, making it the free service’s biggest year since 2018–19.

Housing stress, including issues with mortgages, rent, and rates, was among the most common problems for callers to the helpline during the year.