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Community Services

Support networks and community initiatives for newcomers to integrate and connect.

Sections

1. Overview of Community Services in Canberra

Community services in Canberra are primarily managed by the ACT Government (Australian Capital Territory Government) and supported by various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and community groups. These services aim to provide financial assistance, housing support, mental health services, childcare, disability support, and more. The focus is on fostering social inclusion, reducing inequality, and improving the quality of life for all residents.


2. Key Benefits Available

A. Financial Assistance

  1. Centrelink Services (Federal Government):

    • Centrelink, managed by Services Australia, provides financial support to eligible individuals and families in Canberra. Key payments include:
      • JobSeeker Payment: For unemployed individuals actively seeking work.
      • Family Tax Benefit: For families with dependent children.
      • Youth Allowance: For students and young people.
      • Disability Support Pension: For individuals with a permanent disability.
      • Age Pension: For older residents meeting age and income criteria.
    • Eligibility: Based on income, assets, residency status, and specific circumstances.
    • Application: Apply online via the myGov portal or visit a Centrelink office in Canberra.
    • Costs: Free to apply.
  2. ACT Government Concessions:

    • The ACT Government offers concessions on utilities, public transport, and healthcare for low-income earners, seniors, and people with disabilities.
    • Eligibility: Holders of a Pensioner Concession Card, Health Care Card, or other approved cards.
    • Application: Apply through the ACT Government website or by contacting Access Canberra.

B. Housing and Homelessness Support

  1. Public Housing:

    • Managed by Housing ACT, public housing provides affordable rental options for low-income individuals and families.
    • Eligibility: Based on income, residency, and housing need.
    • Application: Submit an application through Housing ACT. Supporting documents (e.g., proof of income) are required.
    • Costs: Rent is calculated as a percentage of household income.
  2. Emergency Accommodation:

    • Organizations like St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/Goulburn and YWCA Canberra provide short-term crisis accommodation for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
    • Eligibility: Based on immediate need.
    • Application: Contact the organization directly or through the OneLink service (see below).
  3. OneLink:

    • A central service that connects people to housing support, emergency accommodation, and other community services.
    • Contact: Call 1800 176 468 or visit the OneLink website.

C. Childcare and Family Support

  1. Childcare Subsidy:

    • The Federal Government provides a Child Care Subsidy (CCS) to reduce the cost of childcare for eligible families.
    • Eligibility: Based on family income, activity level, and type of childcare service.
    • Application: Apply through myGov.
    • Costs: Subsidy percentage varies; families pay the gap fee.
  2. Parenting Support Programs:

    • Organizations like Marymead and Barnardos Australia offer parenting workshops, counseling, and support for families in need.
    • Costs: Many services are free or low-cost.
  3. Maternal and Child Health Services:

    • Free health checks, immunizations, and parenting advice are available through ACT Health for families with young children.
    • Contact: Visit the ACT Health website or call the Maternal and Child Health service.

D. Disability Support

  1. National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS):

    • The NDIS provides funding for people with permanent and significant disabilities to access services and support.
    • Eligibility: Must meet residency, age, and disability criteria.
    • Application: Apply through the NDIS website or with the help of a Local Area Coordinator (LAC).
    • Costs: Free to apply; participants may need to manage their funding.
  2. Local Disability Services:

    • Organizations like Carers ACT and Belconnen Community Service provide additional support, including respite care, advocacy, and social programs.

E. Health and Mental Health Services

  1. Bulk-Billed Healthcare:

    • Many General Practitioners (GPs) in Canberra offer bulk-billing for Medicare cardholders, meaning no out-of-pocket costs for consultations.
    • Eligibility: Must have a valid Medicare card.
  2. Mental Health Support:

    • Free or low-cost mental health services are available through:
      • Lifeline Canberra: Crisis support and suicide prevention (Call 13 11 14).
      • Canberra Health Services: Public mental health clinics and counseling.
      • Headspace Canberra: Mental health support for young people aged 12โ€“25.

F. Multicultural and Refugee Support

  1. Multicultural Services:

    • The ACT Multicultural Hub provides resources, language classes, and community events for migrants and refugees.
    • Contact: Visit the ACT Governmentโ€™s Multicultural Affairs page.
  2. Refugee Assistance:

    • Organizations like Companion House offer healthcare, counseling, and settlement support for refugees and asylum seekers.
    • Costs: Free or low-cost services.

3. Application Procedures

  • Step 1: Identify the service or benefit you need and check eligibility criteria.
  • Step 2: Gather required documents (e.g., proof of income, residency, identification).
  • Step 3: Submit an application online (e.g., through myGov or ACT Government portals) or in person at the relevant office.
  • Step 4: Follow up on your application status and provide additional information if requested.

4. Costs

  • Most community services in Canberra are free or heavily subsidized for eligible individuals. However, some services (e.g., private childcare or non-bulk-billed healthcare) may require out-of-pocket payments.

5. Notable Local Organizations and Initiatives

  1. VolunteeringACT:

  2. Communities@Work:

    • Offers food relief, financial counseling, and childcare services.
    • Website: commsatwork.org
  3. St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/Goulburn:

    • Provides emergency relief, housing support, and community programs.
    • Website: vinnies.org.au
  4. Belconnen Community Service (BCS):

    • Offers a range of programs, including youth services, disability support, and aged care.
    • Website: bcsact.com.au

6. Practical Tips

  • Language Support: Free translation and interpreting services are available through the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) for non-English speakers.
  • Transport: Concession fares are available on public transport for eligible residents.
  • Community Centers: Visit local community centers for free workshops, social activities, and support services.

By leveraging these community services and benefits, residents and newcomers in Canberra can access the support they need to thrive in the city. For further assistance, contact Access Canberra at 13 22 81 or visit their website.