What is NILs?

The No Interest Loan Scheme (NILs) provides individuals and families on low incomes, access to safe, fair, and affordable credit.  Southern NILs, located in Port Kembla and Nowra is part of Our Community Project and has been providing NILs to the Illawarra area since 2005. Southern NILs is funded by NSW Fair Trading and Department Social Services via Good Shepherd.

No Fees

No Interest

No Charges

How much can I borrow?

Borrow up to $2000 for essentials such as appliances or furniture, to help you get your car back on the road, pay for education fees and equipment or help you cover the cost of goods and services to support your wellbeing.

Borrow up to $3000 for housing related expenses such as bond or rent in advance, or for recovery from a natural disaster.

What can I use a NILs loan for?

Borrow up to $2000 for essential goods and services including:

• Household items like appliances, whitegoods & furniture

• Car repairs & registration

• Medical, dental, wellbeing and life event expenses

• Technology like a phone or laptop

• Education expenses like fees or uniforms

• Employment expenses like licenses or equipment

 Borrow up to $3,000 for:

• Bond & rent in advance

• Rates

• Costs associated with a natural disaster

Am I eligible?

Earn less than $70,000 annual income (before tax) as a single person or $100,000 annual income (before tax) if you have a partner or children

OR Have experienced family or domestic violence in the last 10 years

OR Have a Health Care Card / Pension Card

AND You can show you can afford to repay the loan

How Does NILs Work?

1.      Enquiry.   Call our office on (02) 4276 2224, on Monday to Thursday, between 9 am to 3 pm.

2.      Application.  You will have an interview with a NILs Consultant, in person, via email, or via phone.  At that time your NILs Consultant will review your paperwork and discuss your financial situation and help you apply.  Click here for a list of what to bring to your appointment.

3.      Assessment.  Your loan application will be assessed against your criteria to ensure you can afford the repayments.

4.      Approval.  You will be notified if your loan has been approved.  The item will be purchased and arrangements made for delivery/collection.