Centrelink support for the homeless
Northern Territory media release
Friday, 30 July 2010
Katherine Centrelink staff will be holding a free sausage sizzle for customers at the Centrelink office to mark National Homeless Persons' Week.
The sausage sizzle is one of a number of activities being held by Centrelink staff across the country to recognise National Homeless Persons' Week which runs from Monday 2 to Friday 8 August 2010.
Katherine Centrelink Customer Service Centre manager, Caroline McDonald said Centrelink assists homeless people in many ways.
"Centrelink is committed to providing assistance to the homeless, through income support and individual assistance from Centrelink Customer Service Advisers and specialist staff such as social workers and Community Engagement Officers," Ms McDonald said.
Ms McDonald said Centrelink Social Workers and Community Engagement Officers play a vital role in assisting the homeless.
"Centrelink has around 600 social workers, working in over 300 Centrelink customer service centres and call centres. Last year, our social workers had over 58,000 contacts with people who were homeless or who were experiencing accommodation issues," Ms McDonald said.
"There are 90 Centrelink Community Engagement Officers located around Australia providing assistance to homeless people who are experiencing difficulties accessing mainstream Centrelink services.
"Community Engagement Officers can deliver services to people outside the traditional customer service centre setting, in locations such as parks or crisis accommodation.
"I urge anyone who is seeking support to visit their nearest Centrelink customer service centre or speak to a Centrelink Social Worker by calling 13 1021."
The free sausage sizzle will be held at the Centrelink office located at 4 Second Street, Katherine on Tuesday 3 August from 9 am to 11 am.
For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink media contact.