A new service to help you get free financial advice fast.

The federal government last month launched a new free service to help people in financial difficulty find their nearest financial counsellor and get advice.

This service may be of help to working carers who are among the most disadvantaged groups in society, often having a compromised earning capacity because of their caring duties.

Anyone can get into financial difficulty and professional advice sought early can often prove a life-saver.

The new service, an online map of financial counsellors across Australia, was launched by Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer, David Bradbury and Parliamentary Secretary for Community Services, Julie Collins.

The online map, which is found on the MoneySmart website at http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ shows the locations of 400 financial counselling services across the country and can be searched by town, suburb or postcode.

It is a bit tricky figuring out how to get the information you need. So, first go to the MoneySmart website by clicking the link we have provided. Then click on the link saying ‘find your nearest financial counsellor’.  Now click on the map of Australia, showing all the financial counsellors available. At this point it is easiest to type in your postcode in the top left search box and hit the ‘search’ button. This should narrow the choices down to providers in your local area.

Ms Collins said financial counselling is a free, confidential and independent service funded by the Gillard Government and state and territory governments.

"Financial counsellors help people in financial difficulty to get debt under control and manage the family budget," Ms Collins said.

"The Gillard Government is providing $43.4 million over three years to support financial counselling services.

"This new online map will improve people’s access to the services and help people in need get in touch with their local agency.”

Mr Bradbury said the MoneySmart website provides valuable information and resources to help people manage their finances, and the new map would point people in the right direction when they need professional financial counselling services.

"If people find themselves struggling to buy food, pay the rent or mortgage as well as juggling debts, they should consider seeking the help of a professional financial counsellor," Mr Bradbury said.

"Along with the other online calculators, mobile phone apps and links to service providers, the new financial counsellor map on MoneySmart will help people to find assistance in their local area."

People can also talk to a financial counsellor or get a referral by phoning 1800 007 007. The free hotline is available Australia-wide, Monday to Friday.