A Little About Ursula

Ursula Stephens is a NSW Labor Senator-  actively involved in the third sector in Australia. Ursula is a strong advocate for social innovation, social entrepreneurship and social inclusion. She mentors social entrepreneurs and supports social enterprises across Australia.

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DHS to Hit the Ground at Batlow

The Department of Human Services (DHS) will work with Batlow farmers, employees and community members affected by the severe storms that hit Batlow recently which ruined crops in the area famed for its high quality apples, Senator Ursula Stephens, announced today.

“The Department of Human Services will be on the ground to support workers and their families who have been affected as a result of the storms,” Senator Stephens said.

“DHS staff will be in Batlow at the Batlow Fruit Co-Op on Monday, 28 November from 9am to 12:30pm to talk one-on-one with affected workers about the different assistance options available to them.

“Staff will also be able to link workers with important assistance and services available to them such as Centrelink’s Financial Information Services, Child Support matters, social work services and other education and employment services including Job Services Australia.

“It’s also really important that workers who receive a redundancy payment advise Centrelink when making a claim, as these payments can have an impact on waiting periods for income support payments.”

Senator Stephens said workers should not rule themselves out of assistance before discussing their individual circumstances with someone from Centrelink. “Centrelink will look at each individual’s personal circumstances to establish what payments they may be entitled to, what waiting periods may apply and what other support services are available,” she said.

“Depending on personal circumstances, someone looking for work may be eligible for Newstart Allowance or Youth Allowance. Centrelink will also assess other support options such as low-income health care cards.”

“The Gillard Labor Government wants everyone who is affected by this unfortunate occurrence to receive the assistance they are entitled to in this time of need.” To find out more about how redundancy payments may affect

Centrelink payments visit www.centrelink.gov.au

DHS support and assistance for workers

When: Monday, 28 November, 9am – 12:30pm

Where: Batlow Fruit Co-Op, Forest Road, Batlow