ECHO is the financial auspice body for the NILS scheme in this area. NILS is a national scheme designed to make no interest loans to low income families for essential items. Each region has a local committee of management made up from representatives of community organisations. It has been operating successfully for a number of years and ECHO is proud to a part of this family strengthening initiative.

Loan money is provided by the National Australia Bank with operational funding coming from the Federal Government and some charitable trusts via Good Shepherd Youth & Family Services. The State Government also assist with rebates for eligible loans.