Last year, MercyCare’s Mercy Lending Services Program was selected to be one of three Western Australian referral partners in a three-month pilot as part of Good Shepherd Microfinance’s Federally funded expansion of the No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS).
Designed to provide safe, affordable loans up to $2000 to victims of domestic and family violence, the pilot was a success, with the program now available nationwide.
During the initial three-month pilot of the program – which aims to fill gaps of other grants by enabling female survivors to seek NILS loans for items or services – MercyCare received the most referrals in WA.
Referrals have operated out of MercyCare’s Mirrabooka office which offers Multicultural support services including Status Resolution Support Services, Settlement Services and Mercy Lending services.
“Money is often a big hurdle to overcome in order to leave or stay safe in an abusive relationship," MercyCare Community, Family and Children Services Executive Director David Holden said.
“These loans offer fast access to that money without being saddled with unrealistic repayment terms and conditions.”
The loans are available to women 18 years and older who have experienced family or domestic violence in the past 10 years, are an Australian citizen, permanent resident or hold a visa that expires beyond the loan term and have a source of income enabling them to repay the loan.
Loan repayments can be made weekly, fortnightly or monthly over 18 to 24 months via Centrepay or direct debit.
For more information on Family and Domestic Violence No Interest Loans, visit https://goodshep.org.au/services/fdvnils/ or to speak to our Mercy Lending Services team by calling 1800 268 472.
