Disaster hit communities urged to contact their lenders for supports
Media Release - Monday 19 January 2026: Australians impacted by natural disasters across the country, including bushfires, floods and cyclones, are being reminded that financial hardship assistance is available and does not affect their credit score.
Arca, the peak industry body for consumer credit, is encouraging anyone experiencing financial difficulty due to a natural disaster to prioritise their safety first and then contact their lender once they are able to discuss available support options.
Michael Blyth, Acting CEO at Arca, said many people worry about the impact missed payments may have on their credit, particularly during periods of disruption.
“In the aftermath of a natural disaster, people have enough to worry about. If you’re unable to make repayments because your income has been disrupted, you’ve lost access to internet banking, or you can’t get to work, lenders understand that,” he said.
“Financial hardship assistance is there to help people get back on track, and importantly, accessing hardship support does not negatively affect your credit score.”
Blyth emphasised that hardship assistance can also be backdated for people affected y natural disasters. This means that if someone is unable to contact their lender immediately due to the impacts of a natural disaster, their missed or late payments can still be addressed once they reconnect.
“If it takes some time to get in touch, that’s okay. When you do contact your lender, they can apply hardship support from when the disruption began, so your credit report isn’t impacted by circumstances outside your control,” Michael said.
Support options may vary depending on individual circumstances, but can include reduced repayments, payment deferrals or temporary pauses on repayments. Some lenders may proactively reach out to customers in affected areas, and Arca encourages people to consider these offers if they suit their situation.
While financial matters are important, Arca stressed that personal safety should always come first.
“We urge you to look after yourself and your family first. When you’re ready, reach out to your lender and have a conversation about your options,” said Blyth.
For more information about financial hardship support and how credit reporting works during times of disruption, read more here.