What is the service?
The Community Support Service will support Indigenous community members and their families by providing links and referrals to a range of mainstream and Indigenous services which may include welfare and social support, family violence, health (including drug and alcohol services), housing, child care and legal. The role will also entail the development and fostering of relationships with other service providers through promoting access and pathways to their services.
Why is this service being provided?
The Community Support Service aims to build on successful elements of the former CDEP program, by linking Indigenous people and their families to other services and support in their region.
By better linking Indigenous people to community services, the Community Support Service will support social inclusion and community cohesion. The Service will also assist in closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians in accessing services and information.
Who will deliver the service and where?
A list of the non-profit organisations selected as service providers by locations can be accessed on the FaHCSIA website. Round 1 providers will commence services from July 2009 and the four Round 2 providers will commence from November 2009.
What can you expect from your service provider?
The Community Support Service will have a welcoming place in each selected community where Indigenous people and their families can go for help to find a service to meet their personal needs and to access the internet.
Community Support Service staff will have a good knowledge of the range of Indigenous and mainstream services available to help local Indigenous community members. They will have developed relationships with these services so that they are able to refer individuals.
Contact Information
Further information about the Community Support Service is available by emailing the communitysupportmailbox or by phoning the toll-free hotline 1800 703 488 between 9:00am and 4:30pm AEST Monday to Friday.
A TTY service for people who have a hearing or speech impediment is available via 1800 260 402.
A TTY phone is required for this service.