ACT Women's Micro-Credit Program

Micro-Credit Program

The Minister for Women announced on 12 March 2010 that Canberra women on low incomes have access to interest-free loans of up to $3,000 to help them establish or expand an existing business.

Media Release [RTF 42KB]
Media Release [PDF 29KB]

What is micro-credit?
How many loans are available each year?
Who is eligible to apply?
How do I apply for a loan?

What is micro-credit?

Originally started in 1976 in Bangladesh by the Grameen Bank, micro-credit initiatives encourage the development of micro-enterprises and have been a principal tool in the alleviation of poverty around the world.

Micro-credit aims to address the needs of people who do not have ready access to mainstream financial services. Generally, micro-credit provides facilities and services including:

• Small loans (low or no interest); 
• Financial counselling and financial literacy training; and
• Purchase of white goods and household items.

The ACT Women’s Micro-credit Program is for provision of an interest-free business loan up to $3,000.

How many loans are available each year?

There will be a minimum of ten loans each year.

Who is eligible to apply?

ACT women on low incomes in receipt of a health care card.  www.centrelink.gov.au/internet/internet.nsf/payments/conc_cards_iat.htm  

How do I apply for a loan?

Information on applying for a loan is available through Lighthouse Business Innovation Centre by:
- calling (02) 6163 8300
- visiting the Micro-credit Program website www.brilliantidea.com.au or
- emailing enquiries@lighthouseinnovation.com.au.

The Lighthouse holds regular Orientation sessions about the program.  To find out when the next session will be held visit Brilliant Idea website  http://www.brilliantidea.com.au/content/orientation-session.

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