Media Release
Better Access to Government Services for Families in Burnie
26 September 2007
Senator the Hon. Chris Ellison, Minister for Human Services and Senator for Western Australia, and Mr Mark Baker MP, Member for Braddon, today opened the newly relocated Burnie Medicare office, and officially launched the availability of extended Family Assistance services to local families.
Mr Baker said the new office enhances the delivery of vital Australian Government services to the local community. The roll-out of extended Family Assistance services means people can do more of their business with the Australian Government through the Burnie Medicare office.
“The newly relocated Burnie Medicare office demonstrates the Australian Government’s commitment to making it simpler for Australians to do business with Government,” Mr Baker said.
“The Burnie Medicare office will continue to provide the usual high standard of service to the local community but now in a more comfortable and modern environment.
“The office incorporates Medicare Australia’s new look and feel, with a modern design, ticket-queuing system and comfortable waiting area.”
Mr Baker said the availability of extended Family Assistance services from the Burnie Medicare office also means families are able to combine a wider range of government services.
“People are spending less time waiting in queues and filling in forms and have more time to spend with their families,” he said.
“Burnie residents are now able to lodge claims for the Baby Bonus, Maternity Immunisation Allowance, Child Care Benefit and Family Tax Benefits at the Medicare office in the new Columnar Court Shopping Centre.”
The new office in the Columnar Court Shopping Centre on Wilmot Street is located closer to local medical centres and other major facilities. It also has public car parking nearby.
Mr Baker congratulated staff for the smooth transition during the relocation and their professional and dedicated approach to providing quality service.
Media Contact for the Minister’s office: Michael Barrett – 0419 424 359.
Media Contact for Mr Baker’s office: Sue Hudson – (03) 6431 1333 or 0400 586 548.