In the confusion and chaos following an emergency situation there are a number of tough issues that arise, and often you may need to seek help. You can seek help from a number of sources.
Accountant
Talk to your accountant about your business' financial position.
Lawyer
Access free legal services in your area if a legal issue arises or if you just need help with your insurance claim.
Counsellor
There’s a wide range of support services available to help yourself and your employees recover.
Business advisor
You can discuss your position in the new market and decide whether it's possible for you to continue your business, and the capacity in which you can do so.
Family, friends or community members
Seek help from family or friends. You could also consider talking to other affected businesses in your local community to find an arrangement that will benefit both of you.
What to do...
- Find tips for coping after a disaster on the Disaster Assist website.
- For a list of organisations that offer free legal advice in your area, visit the Australian Security and Investments Commission (ASIC) MoneySmart website.
- Visit our Personal counselling services page for a number of services that may be able to assist you.
- Lifeline Australia provides free, confidential and anonymous, 24-hour telephone counselling for business owners needing emotional support. Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit their website.
- beyondblue has a range of information and resources associated with depression and anxiety, and provides callers with a referral to relevant services. You can call beyondblue on 1300 224 636 or visit their website.
- The Small Business Advisory Service (SBAS) program offers free or low cost advisory services and mentoring to small businesses. Search our Advisor Finder to find the SBAS nearest to you.
- Enterprise Connect Business Advisors are available to answer enquiries about business recovery and can be contacted on 13 17 91.
- Call the Small Business Support Line on 1800 777 275 to access information, assistance and referral services.
