Media Release
Centrelink on-site at Hobart City Hall
26 September 2007
The Minister for Human Services, Senator Chris Ellison, today said workers affected by the recent Myer fire in the Hobart CBD will have access to assistance and expert financial information from Centrelink at the Business and Employee Assistance Centre at City Hall.
“Centrelink is an important part of the Hobart community, and responded quickly in the wake of this devastating fire,” Senator Ellison said.
“Specialist Centrelink staff will be on-site at Hobart’s City Hall this week, working closely with the Tasmanian State Government and Hobart City Council to coordinate assistance and make sure those affected have access to financial and emotional support. This assistance will be available from 8:45am to 5pm daily.
“Apart from income support, Centrelink has a variety of specialist services available, including Financial Information Officers, who are experts in providing independent and quality financial information.
“These specialist staff help people understand their financial options and make better financial decisions for themselves and their families.
“Centrelink also has social workers available to provide emotional support to affected workers and their families,” Senator Ellison said.
“It’s important workers are aware of the impact that any changes to their income will have on their eligibility to Centrelink payments.
“This is obviously a difficult time for affected workers and their families and Centrelink will be doing all it can to offer assistance.
“Centrelink staff are very experienced in handling these types of situations and understand how stressful this time can be for affected workers and their families.”
Media Contact: Michael Barrett – 0419 424 359.