The Central Highland’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged tenants will receive improved advocacy and support after a major funding boost was awarded to a western Victorian service agency.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Western Victoria MP Jaala Pulford said Child and Family Services Ballarat Inc would receive more than $107,000 in funding per year for four years through the Tenancy and Consumer Program.
The program will be given a 30 per cent boost from July this year, totalling more than $18-million of investment over four years.
It will improve the delivery of regional assistance and advocacy services across the state.
Family violence victims experiencing tenancy issues will also be given priority access under the new program.
Ms Pulford said Child and Family Services Ballarat Inc would use the money to provide support services throughout the Ararat, Pyrenees, Hepburn, Moorabool, Ballarat and Golden Plains council areas.
“Child and Family Services Ballarat has a long history of providing quality service to the community and this additional funding will give more people in our region access to the support they need,” she said.
“After an open and competitive tender process, Child and Family Services Ballarat was awarded funds to administer the Tenancy Assistance and Advocacy Program for the Central Highlands region.”
Consumer Affairs Minister Marlene Kairouz said more than $11.4-million would be given to 13 separate community based agencies.
These agencies will deliver the Tenancy Assistance and Advocacy Program across Victoria and provide localised services to vulnerable and disadvantaged tenants.
“This funding will have very real impacts on the lives of Victoria’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged tenants and consumers,” she said.
“It will involve expanded resources and access to advocacy, advice and support services.
“It isn’t always easy understanding your rights as a tenant or a consumer. So it’s vital that Victorians get help and advice where and when they need it.
“These community organisations will be helpful in assisting and advocating on behalf of our most vulnerable renters and consumers across the state.”