The Caring Way 01 | Page 9

Are you experiencing financial hardship?

Page 9

According to Carers Australia, 50% of primary carers are on a low income. Many find it hard to cover living expenses, save money or build up superannuation. Caring families often have to find money for extra expenses like heating and laundry, medicines, disability aids, health care and transport.

On average, by age 67, primary carers will lose $175,000 in superannuation and $394,500 in lifetime earnings.

Here are some social support services and how they can help carers stay on top of their finances:

Good Shepherd Australia and New Zealand

offer Financial Coaching, Financial Counselling, Financial Education, Financial Planning and Financial Hardship Programs that provide information, advice and present or future goal setting.

How to contact:

Inner West and West Victoria: Christian Unger [email protected]

Inner South and Southeas Victoriat: Romy Prins [email protected]

or visit goodshep.org.au

 

Energy and Water Ombudsman Victoria (EWOV)

resolve complaints about electricity, gas and water. EWOV also assist with billing related enquiries including delayed payments, catch up bills, refunds, unexpected high bills, errors in concessions and repeat bills.

- by law, under the Energy Retail code, electricity and gas companies have to help customers that are experiencing payment difficulties. Depending on how much you owe, these companies will provide a range of payment plans and options.

- the Utility Relief Grant (URG) is available to customers with temporary affordability issues and customers at risk of disconnection or restriction. URG is also available for water.

Call 1800 500 509 or email: [email protected]

Social Security Rights Victoria (SSRV)

is an independent community legal centre specialising in social security, law and policy. SSRV can also help you to appeal Centrelink decisions!

Call 03 9481 0355 or email [email protected]

An income support payment is available to carers. Detailed criteria is available under Carer Payment & Carer Allowance information. Visit www.ssrv.org.au