Centrelink barbeque to help Gold Coast homeless

Queensland Media Release
Wednesday, 26 September 2007

The lifestyle of residents living on Queensland's Gold Coast is often envied but there's a different side to the famous tourist strip that most people don't see.

"For many local homeless people, life is a day-to-day struggle and it's critical they have access to community services and support networks," said Dianne Mintry from Gold Coast Centrelink's Community Servicing Unit.

To help achieve this, Centrelink's Gold Coast Community Servicing Unit and the Blair Athol Drug Rehabilitation Centre will tomorrow host a special barbeque for local homeless people to link them with help that's available.

"Part of the role of the Community Servicing Unit is taking Centrelink services out to people who really need them," said Dianne.

"Because many homeless people are sleeping rough or moving around temporary accommodation, it can be difficult to stay in touch with them.

"It's events like today that show people in these tough situations that help is available."

Dianne said Centrelink is able to help people with more than just financial assistance.

"We want people to realise that Centrelink is an active and important member of the community and can provide a whole range of assistance measures," she said.

"Specialist staff, such as Social Workers, are one of many services Centrelink can offer people doing it hard.

"Centrelink's Community Servicing Unit often serves as the connection between homeless people and community agencies, such as housing."

The barbeque will be held tomorrow (Thursday, 27 September) at 12pm at the Blair Athol Drug Rehabilitation Centre, 93 Golden Four Drive, Bilinga.

For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink Media Contact.