More help for Maryborough’s rural community
Queensland Media Release
Wednesday, 27 January 2010
New Centrelink Rural Services Officer (RSO), Allison Shoesmith says she’s looking forward to helping residents access government payments and services they may not be aware of.
Allison has returned to the Maryborough region after working as a RSO in Emerald where she built a strong rapport with the community.
"I've been with Centrelink for more than 9 years and since becoming a RSO I've met lots of people who have very little knowledge about the type of Government services that are available to them," she said.
"I really enjoy getting out and about meeting people and talking to them about their needs and seeing what I can do to help.
"My focus will be to strengthen community connections with Centrelink and raise awareness of Centrelink services and increase the agency's presence within the community," she said.
Centrelink employs a network of RSOs across the country, who reach out to regional and rural communities with a range of services.
A RSO can visit residents on their farm or at their home or business and confidentially discuss individual circumstances and eligibility for various Centrelink payments.
They can also provide referrals to other specialist Centrelink services such as Financial Information Service Officers or social workers and can connect remote residents with local community and social groups.
To contact a RSO you can call 13 2316 or refer to rural services.
For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink Media Contact.