Fairfield Multicultural No Interest Loans (NILs) Support

Empowering Multicultural Communities with Interest-Free Loans

Operating from Campbelltown, FOCUS Connect provides No Interest Loans (NILs) to individuals and families across Fairfield and nearby suburbs, particularly those from multicultural and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.


This program offers a straightforward borrowing option — with zero interest, no fees, and no hidden costs, EVER. It’s a practical solution designed to relieve financial stress and help cover necessary expenses without creating ongoing debt.

What Are No Interest Loans (NILs)?

When life takes an unexpected turn—like a broken appliance, urgent vehicle repairs, or school supplies that can’t wait — NILs offer a practical way to stay on top of things without the added financial burden.


There are no interest rates. No hidden charges. You simply pay back what you borrow — nothing more.


Funds are paid directly to the business supplying the product or service, keeping everything straightforward and secure.


For residents in Fairfield, NILs provide a reliable alternative to high-cost credit, offering breathing room when it matters most.

a man and a woman are sitting on a couch looking at a phone

How Does NILs Work?

Start by lodging your application along with a recent invoice or quote from the store or service provider. Once approved, payment is sent straight to the supplier — no money is handed to you directly.



Note: NILs cannot be used for rent, utility bills, paying off debts, or to access cash.

How Much Can I Borrow?

Up to $2,000 for essential goods and services:

Appliances, whitegoods, and furniture

Car repairs

Medical, dental, or veterinary expenses

laptop

Technology like a computer or laptop (up to $2,000)

computer tablet and a smartphone

Technology like a phone, tablet or small electronics (up to $1,000)

Education expenses (fees, uniforms)

Employment-related costs (tools, licences)

Up to $3,000 for:

Bond on a new rental property

Earth with exclamation sign

Recovery from a natural disaster

Please Note: NILs cannot be used for cash, bills, general rent payments, or debt consolidation.

Am I Eligible?

To apply for NILs, you must meet all the following:

1. Income & Eligibility

You either:



  • Hold a Health Care Card or Pension Card
  • OR earn less than $70,000 (before tax) as a single
  • OR earn less than $100,000 (before tax) with a partner or dependents
  • OR have experienced family or domestic violence in the past 10 years

2. Capacity to Repay

You must show that your income exceeds your expenses, allowing for NILs repayments through Centrepay or direct debit.

3. Residency Requirement

You’ve lived at your current address for at least 3 months


This requirement may be waived if you:



  • Are a repeat NILs borrower
  • Are transitioning to public or low-cost housing
  • Have experienced family or domestic violence
  • Lived at a previous address for 6+ months

Our Service Areas

We also proudly support residents in:

a man and a woman are sitting on a couch looking at a piece of paper
a man and a woman are sitting on a couch looking at a piece of paper

How to Apply for NILs

Getting started with NILs is quick and easy. Our team is here to make the process smooth from beginning to end.


Here’s how we can help:

  • Guide you through the application process
  • Support you in gathering the right paperwork
  • Work with you to create a simple, workable budget


Send through an enquiry online, and someone from the team will get back to you shortly.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is a NILs loan?

    NILs provides interest-free, fee-free loans to cover essential goods or services. Payments are made directly to the supplier — no cash is given to the borrower.

  • How much can I borrow?

    • Up to $2,000 for essentials
    • Up to $3,000 for rental bonds or disaster recovery

  • What can I use it for?

    The loan can only be used for approved purchases or services. It cannot be used to pay bills, withdraw cash, or pay off existing debt.

  • Do I pay any fees or interest?

    None. You repay only what you borrow—there are no fees, interest charges, or hidden costs.

  • Do I need to provide security?

    No security is needed.

  • Can I apply if I’m on a low income?

    Yes. As long as you meet the eligibility conditions, you can submit an application.

  • Can temporary visa holders apply?

    Yes, provided the full loan amount can be repaid before the expiry of your current visa.

  • What documents do I need?

    We’ll help you prepare a simple financial outline and gather documents such as payslips, rental agreements, or supplier quotes.

  • How does repaying my NILs loan help others?

    Every repayment feeds back into a shared loan pool. That money becomes available to help others in Fairfield access the same support. It’s part of a community-based system called the Circular Community Credit Model — where one loan repaid helps the next person in line.

Need Support or Want to Refer Someone?

Applying for yourself or helping someone you care about? FOCUS Connect is proud to support the Fairfield community. Reach out to start your application or refer a friend, family member, or neighbour who could benefit from an interest-free loan.