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Booklet 2: SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES
Support for Families
Grandparents for Grandchildren SA Inc
ISBN: 978-1-920983-71-0
© Department for Families and Communities Reprinted: June 2008 Publication Number: GPG B024
The information contained in this publication is for general information purposes only and is not to be relied upon as a substitute for specific, professional advice.
The information about financial assistance is intended as a guide only to payments available. Individual circumstances vary and you should obtain your own advice about whether or not you qualify under the relevant laws and criteria.
The Government of South Australia makes no representation or warranty that the information is accurate or complete or will remain accurate and complete after the date of publication.
The Government of South Australia has made reasonable efforts to ensure the information is accurate and current as at June 2008 but does not accept responsibility for any errors or omissions.
Booklet 2: SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES 1
ContentsIntroduction 2Housing and Accommodation 2
Private Rental Housing 2Housing SA Properties 3Community Housing 5Problems with Housing 6Crisis Accommodation 7
HomeStart Finance 8Keeping Children Safe 9
Relative and Kinship Care 9Relative, Kinship and Community Care Program 9Other Families SA Services 10Families SA District Centres 12Families SA Regional Offices 13
Additional Supports and Services 13Domestic Violence Helpline 13Time for Kids 13Women’s Information Service of South Australia 14Yarrow Place 14
State Ombudsman of South Australia 14Health and Community Services Complaints Commissioner 14Carer’s Recognition 15Home and Community Care Program 15Seniors Card 16South Australian Government Concessions 17Financial Assistance for Funeral Expenses 18South Australian Spectacles Scheme 19Domiciliary Care SA 20Children with Disabilities 20
Services for Children and Young People with Disabilities 21Other Programs and Services for Children and Young People with Disabilities 23
Autism SA 23Blind Welfare Association of South Australia 23CanDo4Kids 23Cora Barclay Centre 24Down Syndrome Society of South Australia Inc 24Guide Dogs Association of SA and NT Inc 24Novita Children’s Services 24Royal Society for the Blind 25Royal South Australia Deaf Society Inc 25
Drought Assistance 25
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One of the main reasons grandparents take on the responsibility for a grandchild is to provide a safe and stable environment. There are a number of supports available to assist you raising your grandchild, which can help turn the challenges you face into the reward of a healthy and secure child.
These booklets have been designed to assist you to answer questions and provide information about issues you may face when raising your grandchild. Contact details have been provided for you to get in touch with the people that may assist you.
The information in these booklets is also relevant to all relative caregivers that have the responsibility for a child or young person.
The information in this booklet includes details about accessing housing and accommodation, services provided by Families SA, Disability SA, Home and Community Care Program and the Seniors Card.
For more information see:
Booklet 1 – General Information
Booklet 3 – Education, Parenting and Health
Booklet 4 – Legal Issues.
Introduction
When you take on the responsibility of raising a grandchild, you may find that your accommodation needs change. Housing SA responds to South Australians in housing need and connects them to appropriate housing options. Housing SA can help you access a full range of support, advice and pathways to various housing options, including assistance with accessing private rental housing, public housing (including community housing), home ownership and emergency accommodation options.
Private Rental Housing
Private Rental Assistance
If you rent a property in the private rental market, you are required to provide a bond of four weeks rent (unless the rent is more than $250 per week, when you may be required to pay a bond of six weeks rent) and two weeks rent in advance. You may be eligible through Housing SA to receive financial assistance for the bond and possibly rent in advance to assist in securing private rental accommodation. In special circumstances, Housing SA can also assist you in the payment of rent in arrears.
To be eligible for Private Rental Assistance, you need to meet the eligibility criteria. Eligibility will be tested on your income, how long you have been a resident in South Australia and whether or not you own property. To find out if you are eligible, contact Housing SA on 13 12 99 or visit any Housing SA office.
Housing and Accommodation
Booklet 2: SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES 3
To apply for Private Rental Assistance, you will need to complete a Private Rental Assistance Application Form. This form is available from Housing SA. Information you will need to provide includes:
• proof of your gross household income
• proof of identity for all household members over the age of 16 years
• a completed Property Owner’s Declaration
• proof of rent.
If you need assistance filling out the form, a Housing SA Officer will be able to assist you.
A Housing SA Private Rental Liaison Officer may assist eligible customers who are having difficulties in securing and maintaining private rental accommodation by:
• providing support in dealing with landlords, agents and government agencies
• providing information on your rights and responsibilities as a tenant
• assisting you to develop skills to maintain a rental property
• helping you to secure rental accommodation.
This program is available via referral from Housing Officers within Housing SA.
To make an appointment with a Housing Officer, contact Housing SA on 13 12 99.
For information regarding Centrelink’s Rent Assistance, see Booklet 1 – General Information.
Housing SA Properties
Housing SA assists South Australians who are most in need into rental properties owned by the South Australian Government.
You may be eligible for a Housing SA property, however, due to the demand there is a waiting list. To be eligible for a Housing SA property and be placed on the waiting list you must pass an Eligibility Test which includes:
• living in South Australia
• having an independent income
• not fully or partly owning any residential property
• not exceeding the Housing SA income test
• not exceeding the Housing SA asset test
• having a need for housing that cannot be met by any other form of housing (eg private rental).
If you do not meet the above criteria, you can contact a Housing SA Office to discuss other accommodation options that you may be able to access.
To apply for a Housing SA property you need to:
• complete an application form
• provide proof of gross household income (not older than two weeks)
• provide proof of identity for all household members
• provide support letters from your doctor, social worker, mental health worker or any professional supporting you and your family by explaining why you are unable to receive private rental accommodation and why accommodation from Housing SA is the most suitable for you.
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An appointment will then be arranged for a Housing SA Needs Assessment, which will determine which category your application is placed in. The Housing SA waiting list is divided into categories dependent on need.
Changing your current Housing SA property
If you are currently living in a Housing SA property that cannot accommodate having your grandchild/ren living with you on a regular basis, you can apply for a tenant transfer or tenant exchange.
Tenant transfer is an application to move out of your current home and into another vacant home managed by Housing SA.
Tenant exchange means that you can swap homes with another tenant.
Cost of Transferring
Transferring or exchanging houses through Housing SA is similar to moving into a private rental property. You will be responsible for the payment of a deposit, one week’s rent in advance and any water charges or repairs incurred while in the Housing SA property.
Moving house often involves many other costs such as curtains, new floor coverings, removalist expenses etc. It is recommended that you take these into account when considering applying for a transfer or tenant exchange.
Before considering these two options, you are advised to speak to a Housing Officer about your situation or call Housing SA on 13 12 99, so that the best ways can be found to help you accommodate your grandchild/ren.
Contacting Housing SA
For Customer Enquiries telephone 13 12 99. For Housing SA Maintenance Enquiries telephone 13 12 88.
Housing SA Offices are located at:
Metropolitan Adelaide Area
ADelAiDe Naylor House 120 Flinders Street, Adelaide SA 5000GPO Box 292, Adelaide SA 5001Fax: (08) 8207 0001
elizABetHFirst Floor, Raleigh Chambers Elizabeth City Centre, 50 Elizabeth Way, Elizabeth SA 5112PO Box 295, Elizabeth SA 5112Fax: (08) 8252 1747
MARiOn235 Sturt Road, Sturt SA 5047Fax: (08) 8375 7290
MODBuRY 100 Reservoir Road, Modbury SA 5092Fax: (08) 8265 8377
nOARlungA First Floor, Noarlunga HouseNoarlunga Centre, Ramsay Place, Noarlunga SA 5168PO Box 432, Noarlunga SA 5168Fax: (08) 8326 2787
PORt ADelAiDe 296 St Vincent Street, Port Adelaide SA 5015PO Box 241, Port Adelaide SA 5015Fax: (08) 8447 4366
SAliSBuRY1 Ann Street, Salisbury SA 5108Fax: (08) 8259 1402
tHe PARKS Building 4, The Parks Community Centre2-46 Cowan Street, Angle Park SA 5010PO Box 2337, Kilkenny SA 5009 Fax: (08) 8348 0488
Booklet 2: SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES 5
Greater Adelaide Area
gAwleRNorthern Market Shopping CentreCnr Cowan and Murray Street, Gawler SA 5118PO Box 721, Gawler SA 5118Fax: (08) 8523 8055
Regional South Australia
BeRRi29 Vaughan Terrace, Berri SA 5343PO Box 780, Berri SA 5343Fax: (08) 8235 4399
CeDunA 15 McKenzie Street, Ceduna SA 5690PO Box 430, Ceduna SA 5690 Fax: (08) 8625 2396
liMeStOne COASt 4 James Street, Mount Gambier SA 5290PO Box 405, Mount Gambier SA 5290Fax: (08) 8725 6697
MuRRAY BRiDge Mobilong House Seventh Street, Murray Bridge SA 5253PO Box 1094, Murray Bridge SA 5253Fax: (08) 8431 0466
PORt AuguStA13 Mackay Street, Port Augusta SA 5700PO Box 175, Port Augusta SA 5700Fax: (08) 8641 0970
PORt linCOln10 Hallett Place, Port Lincoln SA 5606PO Box 1241, Pt Lincoln SA 5606Fax: (08) 8683 2199
PORt PiRie 76 Florence Street, Port Pirie SA 5540PO Box 480, Port Pirie SA 5540Fax: (08) 8632 0101
wHYAllA 173 Nicolson Avenue, Whyalla Norrie SA 5608Fax: (08) 8645 8531
Community Housing
Community Housing is another accommodation option that you may consider which provides affordable and appropriate housing for low income earners and people with special needs. This includes people with intellectual and physical disabilities, the aged, struggling families, young people, migrants and women escaping domestic violence. There are two types of Community Housing Organisations – Associations and Co-operatives.
Community Housing Associations are community-managed, non-government organisations, often linked with churches or welfare agencies, which provide housing for individuals who are disadvantaged in the housing market, and who are often unable to secure affordable housing on their own.
Associations house people according to need and their suitability for a particular housing vacancy.
Grandparenting Your house may no longer be child-proof. When
grandchildren are young, check that your
good things (like china ornaments) and your poisons (from medicines to dishwashing powder and certain pot plants) are safely out of reach and that your gates are secure.
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Community Housing Co-operatives are fully managed by their own tenants (generally people with similar needs and interests, such as single parents, low-income families and the aged etc). An obligation of the membership of a Housing Cooperative is to take an active role in managing the Cooperative, which may involve helping in areas such as property, tenancy, financial and asset management. Co-operatives must therefore not only ensure people are suitable for any available housing vacancy but are also committed to take an active role before membership will be considered. Given this, households with high needs may be best suited to Association rather than Co-operative housing.
Community housing is different to public housing because the landlord is either an Association or Co-operative and not a government agency. Once housed, you have a secure lease provided you meet the obligations of tenancy and membership with rent charged at no more than 25% of household income.
To find out how to register your interest in Community Housing, visit www.communityhousing.sa.gov.au. Information is available that will assist you to determine whether Community Housing is an appropriate accommodation option for you and which Housing Associations and Co-operatives operate in your area.
Contact DetailsLevel 1, Riverside Centre,North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000GPO Box 292, Adelaide SA 5001Phone: (08) 8207 0233Fax: (08) 8207 0150Country Freecall: 1800 686 366Helpline: (08) 8207 0175
Problems with Housing
The Housing Appeal Unit
If you disagree with a decision made by Housing SA or the Community Housing Organisation you are able to appeal the decision by contacting the Housing Appeal Unit.
For more information, phone: (08) 8207 0080 or Freecall 1800 676 350 or visit the Housing Appeal Unit, at First Floor, 45 Wakefield Street, Adelaide.
You can also access appeal information by logging onto the Department for Families and Communities website, www.familiesandcommunities.sa.gov.au, or from any Housing SA office.
Tenant Information and Advocacy Service
The Tenant Information and Advocacy Service (TIAS) can provide you with free and independent advice and support as a tenant in the public, private and community rental markets. TIAS provides support and advocacy on a variety of tenancy issues such as tenancy rights and responsibilities, application processes for private and public rental, neighbourhood disputes, evictions, bond assistance, complaints, debt and home purchase.
Contact DetailsPhone: (08) 8305 9459 Country Freecall: 1800 060 462 Email: [email protected]
Booklet 2: SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES 7
Tenancies Branch (Office of Consumer and Business Affairs)
If you have any concerns about the way you have been treated by your landlord or agent and would like to know about your rights and responsibilities, you can contact the Tenancies Branch in the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs. Staff can provide advice on a range of issues such as leases, bonds, termination, maintenance, inspections and disputes. They also can provide you with assistance in dispute resolution and may attempt to negotiate or conciliate issues between you and your landlord/agent.
Contact Details:Office of Consumer and Business AffairsLevel 1, 91-97 Grenfell Street, Adelaide SA 5000GPO Box 965, Adelaide SA 5001Tenancy Advice Phone: (08) 8204 9544Fax: (08) 8204 9570 Email: [email protected]: www.ocba.sa.gov.au/tenancies
Housing Improvement Branch
If you are renting a house in the private rental market and are concerned about the condition of the property, then you need to contact your landlord/agent first. If the landlord/agent has not corrected the problem to a reasonable standard, then you can contact the Housing Improvement Branch, Housing SA.
The Housing Improvement Branch is responsible for maintaining appropriate standards in the private rental market. The branch investigates housing conditions and encourages owners to repair building defects to improve the
standard of the property to a desirable accommodation standard that complies with legislative standards. If this is not achieved a rent control may be implemented, ensuring that the rent paid is consistent with the standard of accommodation.
Contact details: Housing Improvement BranchLevel 3, Riverside Centre,North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000GPO Box 292, Adelaide SA 5001Phone: (08) 8207 0504Fax: (08) 8124 4577
Crisis Accommodation
Family Accommodation, Information and Referral Services
The Family Accommodation, Information and Referral Services (FAIRS) offers a confidential telephone service to families who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. FAIRS can assist you to identify possible accommodation options.
Phone: 1800 003 308
Domestic Violence Crisis Service
This is a 24-hour service that operates seven days a week for women and children experiencing homelessness due to domestic violence. Services offered include counselling, support and emergency accommodation for victims of domestic violence.
Phone: 1300 782 200
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Trace a Place
Trace a Place provides information and referrals to young people under 25 who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Services include emergency accommodation, supported youth housing and share housing. Programs include services for young people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Phone: 1300 306 046Freecall: 1800 807 364
Regional crisis accommodation
Each region in South Australia has supported accommodation services for youth, families, single adults and victims of domestic violence. For more information, or to be referred to one of these services, contact either the Housing SA information line on 13 12 99 or Families SA in your area (contact details on pages 12-13).
As a result of taking the responsibility for raising your grandchild/ren, your financial and accommodation needs may change. HomeStart Finance offers a variety of affordable home loan solutions which may help you address these issues. These include:
• if you are over 60 years of age and own or nearly own your home, the Seniors Equity Loan is a way for you to use your home’s equity to help you meet your changing financial needs. This option is designed to be flexible so that you have the choice of how much you pay and when you make payments
• if you would like to consider refinancing to reduce your loan repayments and ease some of the pressure, then the Breakthrough Loan could be an option for you. Refinancing with a Breakthrough Loan may allow you to substantially reduce your loan repayments, through a shared appreciation arrangement with HomeStart
• the Nunga Loan has been specifically designed to incorporate the benefits of a HomeStart Home Loan, but with added extras to assist the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander customers
• if you receive Centrelink benefits or are on a lower income, HomeStart’s range of loan solutions may be able to help you move into home ownership sooner. HomeStart offers subsidised loans that could increase what you can borrow, and feature the Repayment Safeguard which breaks the link between interest rates and repayment amounts
HomeStart Finance
Booklet 2: SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES 9
• EquityStart is a subsidised loan of up to $50,000 for public housing tenants, which when combined with a HomeStart Loan could be the extra top-up that you need to increase your home buying power, without adding to your repayment burden.
To discuss your needs, call (08) 8203 4000 or Freecall 1800 018 788 from regional locations, or visit www.homestart.com.au
Terms, conditions and eligibility criteria apply. Fees and charges are payable.
Families SA is the lead statutory agency responsible for the care and protection of children affected by, or at risk of, abuse and neglect.
The Children’s Protection Act 1993 and Family and Community Services Act 1972 form part of the legislation which underpins the work of Families SA.
Families SA offers a range of services to meet the needs of individual children and their families. These include crisis response services, support services, youth offending programs, financial counselling, emergency financial and practical assistance as well as care placements.
Families SA recognises the importance and primacy of families in the upbringing and development of children. When a child cannot live with their parent or caregiver, relatives and kin will be looked to as a care option. At times when this is not possible, other care options, like family-based foster care, will be considered.
Keeping Children Safe
Families SA will look at ways to maintain family connections in the best interests of the child while they are living in care.
A care placement may be offered on a short-term basis in emergency situations or during the investigation and assessment phase of a child protection concern. Or it may be more long-term while working towards a safe return of the child to their parents or to offer stable long-term care to adulthood.
Families SA is committed to providing a service which is culturally appropriate and that ensures children living in care are cared for in a way that respects their culture.
Relative and Kinship Care
In formal care situations with Families SA, a child will be placed with a grandparent, other relative or kin in response to identified care and protection concerns. An authority to allow a placement in care exists, either through an agreement with parental consent or under a Youth Court order. Families SA will remain involved in the life of the child, carers and family over the course of the formal authority. In order to ensure the suitability of the placement and that the child will be well cared for, an assessment of the carer and their household will take place.
Relative, Kinship and Community Care Program
Families SA recognises that caring for a child presents both rewards and challenges.
To assist grandparents and other relatives or kin when they take on a Families SA formal caring
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role, the Relative, Kinship and Community Care Program has been established. This program offers tailored support services, information and training to the carer and their family to help maintain a safe and secure home for the child. The relative care support worker works closely with both the child’s social worker and the carer to ensure the goals for the placement are met and the needs of both carers and children are identified and supported.
As a Families SA formal relative or kinship carer, financial assistance is available from Families SA to support the cost of care for the child.
Other Families SA Services
Help with money problems
If you are having financial trouble, Families SA can provide free, confidential financial counselling.
There are lots of reasons why people seek financial counselling:
• being behind in loan or credit repayments
• a sudden income drop due to job loss or other misfortune
• inability to pay rent or mortgage repayments
• uncertainty about a contract you have signed
• unfair treatment by traders or creditors
• facing court action because of debts
• considering bankruptcy.
Families SA Financial Counsellors can help you to explore options and make informed choices to help sort out your money worries. They can:
• help you deal with creditors about your debts
• help if you think you have been unfairly treated as a consumer or borrower
• give you information about entitlements to pensions, benefits, concessions and grants
• give you information on consumer rights, repayment plans with creditors and refinancing loans
• help you to handle debts and give information about bankruptcy and the alternatives.
Families SA may also be able to provide emergency financial assistance as well as refer you to other services in your local area that may be able to assist.
For more information contact your local Families SA District Centre.
Child Abuse Report Line
All children have a right to be safe and cared for and this is a responsibility shared across the community. Families SA receives reports about children at risk of suspected abuse or neglect via the Child Abuse Report Line.
The Child Abuse Report Line operates 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Calls to the line are confidential.
Any suspected child abuse or neglect can be reported to the line on 13 14 78.
In instances when abuse or neglect is suspected, the reports are filtered to local Families SA District Centres for follow-up and possible investigation of the concerns.
Booklet 2: SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES 11
In South Australia, there is a system of mandatory reporting. That is, there is a legal requirement for some professionals and community members to report instances of suspected child abuse or neglect.
Reporting suspected abuse or neglect gives Families SA the chance to help families in situations where a child or children may be at risk.
If you are unsure about reporting, you can call the Child Abuse Report Line and get advice.
After hours crisis response
Crises can happen at any time, including weekends or at night.
Crisis Care is a state-wide telephone service to help people when things go wrong and they need urgent help. The service is provided by qualified Families SA social workers. It operates from 4pm to 9am on weekdays and 24 hours a day on weekends and public holidays.
Contact Crisis Care on 13 16 11 for the cost of a local call anywhere in South Australia.
If a crisis happens on a weekday between 9am and 5pm, contact your nearest Families SA District Centre – see pages 12 and 13 of this booklet.
Feedback about Families SA services
Families SA welcomes feedback. This helps to identify the things being done well or not being done well, to identify gaps in services and for planning how services can be improved.
As far as possible Families SA tries to resolve complaints at the District Centre level. Should you
be dissatisfied with a service you have received in the first instance discuss the matter with the worker and their supervisor. You may also speak to or write to the Manager of your local Families SA District Centre about your concern.
You may have a support person present when you speak with staff at Families SA or if needed, request the use of an interpreter. If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person, you may wish to speak with a Principal Aboriginal Cultural Consultant. This can be arranged through the Families SA Regional Office closest to your residence.
If your matter cannot be resolved through your local Families SA District Centre, there are other options including:
• contacting the Families SA Customer Service Officer who can discuss your concerns and explain your rights and options. Phone (08) 8226 6930 or Freecall 1800 003 305
• writing to Families SA Regional Directors, Executive Director Families SA, or the Chief Executive of the Department for Families and Communities
• writing to the Minister for Families and Communities
• contacting the Health and Community Services Complaints Commissioner
• contacting the State Ombudsman – an external, independent agency that can investigate complaints about administrative sections of Families SA and other State Government organisations, statutory authorities and local government councils.
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Families SA District Centres
To enable a more collaborative approach to service delivery and planning the South Australian Government has established common regional boundaries for all State Government departments. Families SA have altered their District Centre boundaries to meet this requirement, resulting in changes to some District Centre address and contact details. If you require assistance with District Centre contact details please ring Freecall 1800 003 305.
Metropolitan Adelaide Area
ADelAiDe219 Morphett Street, Adelaide SA 5000Phone: (08) 8304 0120
elizABetH18 Langsford Drive, Elizabeth SA 5112 Phone: (08) 8207 9000
gAwleRShop 9 Northern Market Shopping Centre,Cowan Street (cnr Murray Street), Gawler SA 5118 Phone: (08) 8521 4444
MARiOn233 Sturt Road, Sturt SA 5043 Phone: (08) 8298 0800
nORtH eASteRn995 North East Road, Modbury SA 5092 Phone: (08) 8407 4999
OnKAPARingAAlexander Kelly Drive, Noarlunga SA 5168 Phone: (08) 8207 3000
PORt ADelAiDeAn outreach service of Woodville District CentrePort Adelaide Community Health Building,Corner of Dale & Church Street, Port Adelaide SA 5015Phone: (08) 8240 2277Monday to Friday 1pm to 4pmServices include concessions and emergency financial assistance by assessment. For financial counselling contact Woodville District Centre.
SAliSBuRY16-18 Ann Street, Salisbury SA 5108 Phone: (08) 8209 4910
tHe PARKSAn outreach service of Woodville District CentreThe Parks Community Centre2-46 Cowan Street, Angle Park SA 5010Contact Woodville District Centre for hours of operation
wOODville 824-826 Port Road, Woodville SA 5033 Social work and administration Phone: (08) 8406 2777Financial support Phone: (08) 8406 2700
Greater Adelaide Area
MOunt BARKeRBranch office of Murray Bridge District Centre23 Mann Street, Mount Barker SA 5251 Phone: (08) 8391 0488 Freecall: 1800 330 042
Regional South Australia
CeDunA O’Loughlin Terrace, Ceduna SA 5690 Phone: (08) 8626 2444 Freecall: 1800 330 032
COOBeR PeDYHutchinson Street, Coober Pedy SA 5723 Phone (08) 8672 4555 Freecall: 1800 032 205
KADinABranch office of Port Pirie District Centre10 Digby Street, Kadina SA 5554 Phone: (08) 8821 3065Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8:45am to 12:30pm and 1:15pm to 5pm
KAngAROO iSlAnDServices are provided to Kangaroo Island from the Mount Barker District Centre Phone: (08) 8391 0488Contact Mount Barker District Centre for opening hours
liMeStOne COASt 4 James Street, Mount Gambier SA 5290 Phone: (08) 8724 4844 Freecall: 1800 800 747
MuRRAY BRiDge1-5 Seventh Street, Murray Bridge SA 5253 Phone: (08) 8535 6200 Freecall: 1800 330 042
PORt AuguStA5 El Alamein Road, Port Augusta SA 5700 Phone: (08) 8648 5060 Freecall: 1800 100 118
Booklet 2: SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES 13
PORt linCOln71 Tasman Terrace, Port Lincoln SA 5606 Phone: (08) 8688 3344 Freecall: 1800 018 331
PORt PiRie75 Gertrude Street, Port Pirie SA 5540 Phone: (08) 8638 4311 Freecall: 1800 804 550Port Pirie also conducts outreach services in Peterborough and Clare on every second Tuesday. Phone the District Centre for more information.
RiveRlAnD14 Kay Avenue, Berri SA 5343 Phone: (08) 8595 2400 Freecall: 1800 800 195
viCtOR HARBORBranch office of Mount Barker District Centre3/10 Crozier Road, Victor Harbor SA 5211 Phone: (08) 8552 2011Contact Mount Barker District Centre for opening hours
wHYAllA163 Nicholson Avenue, Whyalla Norrie SA 5608 Phone: (08) 8648 8880 Freecall: 1800 245 242
Families SA Regional OfficesRegional Directors are responsible for the operations of the offices within each region.
Southern Metropolitan Regional OfficeGPO Box 292, Adelaide SA 5001Phone: (08) 8124 4301Fax: (08) 8124 4320Families SA District Centres: Adelaide, Marion, Mount Barker, Onkaparinga and Woodville.
Northern Metropolitan Regional OfficeGPO Box 292, Adelaide SA 5001Phone: (08) 8360 4700 Fax: (08) 8360 4777Families SA District Centres: Elizabeth, Gawler, North Eastern and Salisbury.
Country Regional OfficeGPO Box 292, Adelaide SA 5001Phone: (08) 8150 8103Fax: (08) 8150 8142Families SA District Centres: Ceduna, Coober Pedy, Mount Gambier, Murray Bridge, Port Augusta, Port Lincoln, Port Pirie, Riverland and Whyalla.
Domestic Violence Helpline
This is a 24-hour service that operates seven days a week which provides a range of services including safety after separation, help for women who are victims of domestic violence, help for men who are troubled by their violence, support and counselling and brochures and information.
Freecall: 1800 800 098
Time for Kids
Time for Kids is a child-focused organisation. Our aim is to provide children with ‘whole family’ experiences that not only contribute to their immediate enjoyment, safety, self-esteem and development, but also enable them to become more responsible adults, parents and members of their community. We value each child’s potential and, through our program, seek opportunities to develop that potential.
The Time for Kids Grandparents–Respite and Support Service arranges planned respite placements for children and young people who are placed in the care of their grandparents. All our family care-givers are volunteers and receive no reimbursement. The offer weekend respite once per month and/or time during school holidays. Long term supports are established for the child or young person and carer resulting in more stable placements.
For further information, contact Time for Kids or speak to your Families SA Family Support Worker of your grandchild’s Families SA District Centre worker.
Additional Supports and Services
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72 Fullarton Road, Norwood SA 5067Phone: (08) 8362 6311Fax: (08) 8362 6711Email: [email protected]: www.timeforkids.com.au
Women’s Information Service of South Australia
Women’s Information Service of South Australia provides women with a safe and free space, the time to tell their stories and be heard, an opportunity to explore and discuss options, information that is relevant to women’s lives and referrals to relevant services.
Phone: (08) 8303 0590Freecall: 1800 188 158Website: www.wis.sa.gov.au
Yarrow Place
Yarrow Place provides a 24-hour service for rape and sexual assault victims who were aged 16 years or more at the time of the assault and is part of the Children, Youth and Women’s Health Service.
Phone: (08) 8226 8777After hours and emergency contact: (08) 8226 8787Freecall: 1800 817 421Website: www.wch.sa.gov.au/services/az/other/yarrowplace/files/
If you are under 16 years of age you can contact Side Street on (08) 8202 5871, The Second Story on (08) 8232 0233 or 1300 131 719 or Shopfront on (08) 8281 1775 to receive a service.
If you are an adult survivor of childhood sexual abuse you can contact Respond SA on (08) 8419 2000 or 1800 176 900 for a service.
If you have a complaint that you are having difficultly resolving you can contact the Health and Community Services Complaints Commissioner (HCSCC). The HCSCC helps people, service users, carers and service providers resolve complaints about health and community services, including child protection services, when a direct approach to the service provider is either unreasonable or has not succeeded. HCSCC covers health and community services across the public, private and government sectors. Complaints are handled confidentially and impartially.
Health and Community Services Complaints Commissioner
The State Ombudsman of South Australia is an external, independent agency that can investigate complaints about administrative sections of Families SA and other State Government organisations, statutory authorities and local government councils.
Individuals should attempt to resolve a complaint by direct approach. If this provides no satisfaction a complaint should be lodged with the Ombudsman within twelve months of the cause of the complaint arising.
Contact: Phone: (08) 8226 8699 Country Freecall: 1800 182 150 Email: [email protected]
State Ombudsman of South Australia
Booklet 2: SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES 15
HCSCC can help to resolve complaints:
• about services sought, used or received from a community service, community service provider, health professional, health service or health service provider
• that started within the last two years
• made by almost anyone over 16 years of age
• made orally or in writing.
HCSCC cannot handle complaints about:
• incidents that happened over two years ago
• a matter that has commenced before a court
• a matter that has already been determined by a court, tribunal, or any other person or body acting under a law
• a decision of a court or a tribunal
• a death once the Coroner has started an inquest
• actions of government ministers or politicians
• employment disputes.
Contact details: Monday to Thursday 10am to 4pmPhone: (08) 8226 8666 Country Freecall: 1800 232 007Fax: (08) 8226 8620Website: www.hcscc.sa.gov.au
Most people do not like complaining but complaints provide important feedback which can lead to action to improve the safety and quality of health and community services.
Caring for a child with a disability or chronic illness (including a mental illness) can place additional pressures on you and your family.
Carer’s Recognition
The Home and Community Care (HACC) Program is a joint Commonwealth, State and Territory Government initiative that supports frail aged people in their own homes, younger people with disabilities and their carers.
If you are a grandparent with the primary responsibility for a grandchild with a disability, you may be eligible for HACC funded services provided your grandchild is not receiving similar services through other government funding.
Your GP, the local hospital or your community health centre can advise you about how to go about getting this help. Carelink Centres also provide information about HACC and other aged care services. Ring the Carelink Freecall number 1800 052 222 for more information or visit www.carelinksa.asn.au
Home and Community Care Program
This is recognised through the Carer’s Recognition Act 2005, which includes the Carers Charter. The Act requires the role of the carer is recognised by service providers. These agencies are required to involve the carer and consult them when services may impact on them or their caring role.
Copies of the ‘Supporting Carers’ folder, which includes a copy of the Carer’s Recognition Act 2005, the Carers Charter and the SA Carers Policy, can be requested by contacting the Office for Carers in the Department for Families and Communities by phone (08) 8207 0522 or for further information visit their website at: www.familiesandcommunities.sa.gov.au/sacarers
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The Seniors Card is an initiative of the South Australian Government in partnership with the private sector. It is free and not means-tested, but eligibility criteria apply.
You can apply for a Seniors Card as soon as you turn 60 years of age, provided you are a permanent resident of South Australia and not working more than 20 hours a week in paid employment. This card is not issued automatically and so you do need to apply.
When you receive your card, a Seniors Card Directory called Your Lifestyle Guide listing participating businesses will be included. There are more than 400 participating businesses offering discounts to cardholders.
Seniors Card
It is important that you let the salesperson know you are Seniors Card holder before buying to ensure you receive the benefits listed in the Seniors Card Directory as there is no obligation for businesses to honour discounts after a transaction has happened.
The State Government also offers concessions to cardholders:
• 50% concession on State public transport
• a rebate to a maximum of $100 on your Council rates (conditions apply). Ring RevenueSA on 1300 366 150 to find out about your entitlement. For more information visit their website at www.revenuesa.sa.gov.au
• you may also be eligible for the maximum rebate of $40 on your Emergency Services Levy. Contact your local Families SA office to find out more and what conditions apply. To check where your nearest office is, phone (08) 8266 7000.
Seniors Card application forms are available from:
• any Australia Post outlet
• Families SA offices
• www.seniorscard.com.au You will need to print out the form, fill all sections in and then send it back to the Seniors Card Unit by fax or post (details below).
Contact DetailsThe Seniors Card Unit, Office for the Ageing, Department for Families and Communities: PO Box 196 Rundle Mall, Adelaide SA 5000Freecall: 1800 819 961Fax: (08) 8207 0555Email: [email protected]
You may be asked by service providers to contribute to the cost, but if you cannot afford the recommended contribution, you cannot be denied the service.
Booklet 2: SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES 17
South Australian Government Concessions
The South Australian Government provides a range of concessions for eligible South Australians.
You may be able to receive one or more of these concessions if you are a pensioner, receive a benefit from Centrelink such as Austudy or Newstart or are on a low income. You may also be eligible if you have a State Seniors Card or a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card.
Concessions you may be able to receive include:
• council rates remissions of up to $190 per year, or up to $285 per year in areas with septic tanks or community waste water management schemes
• water rates remissions of up to $200 per year for owner occupiers and $160 for tenants.
• sewerage rate remissions of up to $95 per year
• a remission of up to $40 on the Emergency Services Levy
• an energy concession of up to $120 per year which covers electricity and gas use, including LPG bottled gas
• cheaper travel on public transport (around 50% of the normal fare)
Eligibility provisions vary slightly for each type of concession.
To apply for concessions you have several options:
InternetGo to www.sa.gov.au/concessions and apply online, or download an application form and post it to us.
Send your application form (no stamp required) to:ConcessionsReply Paid 292Adelaide SA 5001
You may also obtain forms from your local council or SA Water.
TelephoneCall the Concessions Hotline on 1800 307 758 and ask for an application form be sent to you or to obtain more information about eligibility criteria and how to apply.
If you require assistance to complete the application form, the Concessions Hotline staff will be happy to help. A translation service is available if required.
If you have a hearing or speech impairment, call the text telephone service on (08) 8226 6789.
EmailSend an email to: [email protected] if you would like us to email you an application form or answer any questions.
Information about concessions is now easier to find… go to www.sa.gov.au/concessions and use our Concessions Finder tool to help you find out about the concessions for which you may be eligible…You can also download a brochure with more information about the eligibility criteria for each concession type and how to apply.
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Grandparenting Let the grandchildren know about old family traditions as the family grows and changes and new traditions are built. You can help to keep the best of the old, as you and your family work out
new ways to manage celebrations, holidays and birthdays.
If you have recently experienced the death of a family member and are facing extreme financial hardship you may be eligible to receive financial assistance to cover the costs of a basic funeral and other related expenses.
The Funeral Assistance Program, run by the Department for Families and Communities, provides financial help to eligible applicants to cover the cost of funeral expenses where the close family and friends do not have the money to pay for their loved one’s funeral.
Eligibility criteria apply. The income, assets and liabilities of the deceased and their close relatives is taken into account when assessing eligibility for assistance through this program.
The program covers the costs of funerals at either the Centennial Park Cemetery, Enfield Memorial Park or the Smithfield Memorial Park in metropolitan Adelaide. Consideration is also given to applications to cover the costs of transportation of a deceased Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person to their homelands, if this is culturally required.
Financial Assistance for Funeral Expenses
Types of Assistance Available
You may be eligible for one of two types of financial assistance, depending on your circumstances:
• if you have not already contracted a private funeral director, you may be eligible for full contract funeral assistance. This covers the cost of a basic funeral in either the metropolitan area or in the country regions of South Australia.
• if you have already contracted a private funeral director, you may be eligible for after-the-event funeral assistance. This takes the form of a small grant, which you will receive if the funeral account meets the program assessment criteria and has not yet been fully paid. You will need to provide a copy of the original detailed account from the funeral director with your application. If your application is successful, the grant is paid directly to the funeral director on your behalf.
Assessment criteria
To be eligible for financial assistance under the Funeral Assistance Program, you must be able to prove that:
• the deceased was in receipt of a pension or benefit or was a low-income recipient; and
• the deceased’s estate is estimated to be valued at less than $3,000 when liquidated (including life insurance, superannuation, shares, etc); and
Booklet 2: SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES 19
Eligible South Australians may obtain reduced cost spectacles or contact lenses through the Government’s Spectacle Scheme.
To be eligible for assistance, an applicant must be South Australian resident and:
• hold a Pensioner Concession Card, or
• have held a Centrelink Health Care Card continuously for at least 12 months.
If you are eligible, once every two years, you and each of your listed dependents are entitled to either:
• pair of reading glasses and a pair of distance vision glasses; OR
• a pair of bifocal glasses.
While the Scheme only covers basic spectacle frames, recipients may elect to upgrade their frames or lenses at their own cost. For a limited number of prescribed eye conditions, where clinically justified, the Scheme provides assistance to reduce the cost of contact lenses.
If a recipient’s optometrist certifies that their vision has changed significantly, recipients may be eligible for additional lenses within a two year period.
Most optometrists in South Australia participate in the scheme and will be able to provide you with an application form. Your optometrist will also be able to tell you how much assistance you may be eligible for through the scheme.
If you are eligible for a subsidy, your optometrist will deduct the amount from your account.
South Australian Spectacles Scheme
• the deceased’s immediate relatives are not in paid employment or are low-income recipients; and
• the deceased’s immediate relatives have insufficient assets to cover the costs of funeral expenses (ie less than $3,000 in accessible funds); and
a) the funeral has not yet been arranged, or
b) for an after-the-event grant, the account is a moderate cost and is not yet paid.
How do I apply for financial support through the Funeral Assistance Program?
To apply for funeral assistance, telephone the Funeral Assistance Program on 1300 762 577. Program staff will be happy to help you by answering any questions you might have and to assist you with your application.
Contact Details:Funeral Assistance ProgramDepartment for Families and CommunitiesReply Paid 292Adelaide SA 5001Phone: 1300 762 577 Fax: (08) 8226 7047
A text telephone service is available for people who are deaf or who have hearing or speech impairments on TTY: (08) 8226 6789.
More informationFor more information go to www.sa.gov.au/concessions and download an information leaflet about the Funeral Assistance Program.
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For further information about the SA Spectacle Scheme go to www.sa.gov.au/concessions and download an information leaflet, or telephone 8463 6427.
Contact details:South Australian Spectacles SchemeDepartment for Families and CommunitiesReply Paid 292, Adelaide SA 5001Phone: (08) 8463 6427 Fax: (08) 8226 7047Website: www.sa.gov.au/concessions
Domiciliary Care services (often referred to as ‘Dom Care’) are provided to people who have reduced ability to care for themselves, to assist them to stay living at home, close to loved ones, family and local community.
From 1 July 2007, Metropolitan Domiciliary Care became known as Domiciliary Care SA. Services will continue to include physical assistance, rehabilitation and personal care, as well as providing respite and support for carers. Services primarily assist those aged over 65, although younger people with a disability may qualify for support in some instances.
There are eight Client Service Areas in metropolitan Adelaide: Onkaparinga, Marion, Charles Sturt, Burnside, Adelaide, Port Adelaide, Salisbury and Playford.
If you would like more information, please phone (08) 8193 1234 or visit www.domcare.sa.gov.au
For regional residents, domiciliary care services are administered by regional hospitals. To register for these services call your regional hospital.
Domiciliary Care SA
Children with Disabilities
While some families/carers discover that their child has a disability at birth, others may become aware of their child’s disability gradually. As the child grows, the parent/carer suspects that something is not quite right, and over time the child’s disability is confirmed. When a parent/carer discovers that their child has a disability, their expectations, plans, thoughts and feelings for their future are affected.
The nature of a child’s disability can vary enormously, ranging from mild learning difficulties, to more significant disabilities that can impact upon all areas of a child’s development (communication, mobility, play and learning).
Families and carers may experience a range of emotions following the diagnosis, including shock, anger, guilt, loss, grief and sadness.
Families/carers adapt in their own way and time. This is an ongoing process, and may be affected by a number of factors such as community support, support available within the family, and individual coping abilities.
Families/carers often experience additional pressures in caring for a child with a disability, sometimes impacting upon sibling and partner relationships. Over time, families also identify special joys and satisfactions, along with hopes and fears for the future.
Booklet 2: SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES 21
Services for Children and Young People with DisabilitiesThe Disability SA Child and Youth Service provides support for children and young people with a disability from birth to transition from school. It aims to:
• strengthen and support families in their caring role
• promote children’s development and their participation within their communities.
The teams may include service coordinators, social workers, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, developmental educators and psychologists who will work in partnerships with families and other services to ensure a coordinated approach that supports both the child/young person and their family.
Services provided may include:
• developmental assessments and recommendations to promote learning and functional skills for children and youth
• information to assist understanding of children/adolescent developmental difficulties and the effect that particular diagnostic conditions may have
• family support – assistance to strengthen family resources and problem solving capacities, including information provision and counselling
• parent/carer education – provision of information sessions and development of appropriate resources (eg sleep, toilet training, communication, understanding adolescence)
• support at key transitions (eg planning and support at transitions from home to child care, preschool, school, puberty, high school and leaving school)
• range of developmental groups for children and youth (eg aquatic physiotherapy, play and community groups, preparation for leaving home, life skills training)
• assistance with emerging behavioural issues and challenging behaviours
• sibling support
• opportunities for parents/carers to meet other parents/carers
• equipment provision
• supporting opportunities for participation in their community
• service coordination
• planning for pathways beyond school
• planning for transition from care for children under Guardianship of the Minister
• access to specialist intervention.
In country regions teams are smaller and include service coordinators from a variety of professional backgrounds who are supported by specialist services based in the metropolitan regions. Therapy services may be accessed through regional community health services.
Contact details:Information, Enquiries and Referrals:1300 786 117 (Local fee only for country callers)
Central Office103 Fisher Street, Fullarton SA 5063Phone: (08) 8272 1988 Fax: (08) 8272 3561Email: [email protected]
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Disability SA offices
Metropolitan Adelaide Area
CHRiStieS BeACH98 Beach Road, Christies Beach SA 5165Phone: (08) 8384 7299Fax: (08) 8384 8799
DAw PARK180 Daws Road, Daw Park SA 5041Phone: (08) 8277 8566Fax: (08) 8374 1025
gilleS PlAinS31 Blacks Road, Gilles Plains SA 5086 (Northern)Phone: (08) 8366 7300Fax: (08) 8366 7377
21 Blacks Road, Gilles Plains SA 5086 (Central)Phone: (08) 8366 7337Fax: (08) 8366 7366
RegenCY PARKRegency Park Centre171 Days Road, Regency Park SA 5010Phone: (08) 8348 6000Fax: (08) 8348 6099TTY: (08) 8348 6067
SAliSBuRY46 Commercial Road, Salisbury SA 5108Phone: (08) 8282 5500Fax: (08) 8282 5555
57 Park Terrace, Salisbury SA 5108Phone: (08) 8182 1560Fax: (08) 8182 1566
Greater Adelaide Area
AngAStOnC/- Barossa and Area Community Health Services29 North Street, Angaston SA 5253Phone: (08) 8563 8544Fax: (08) 8564 3434
gAwleR10 Adelaide Road, Gawler SA 5118Phone: (08) 8521 4700Fax: (08) 8521 4788
KAngAROO iSlAnDC/- Kangaroo Island Health Service, Cook CentreEsplanade, Kingscote KI SA 5223Phone: (08) 8553 4231Fax: (08) 8553 4227(Wednesday to Friday third week of the month)
viCtOR HARBORC/- Southern Fleurieu Health ServiceHarbour View Terrace, Victor Harbor SA 5211Phone: (08) 8552 0600Fax: (08) 8552 0616
MOunt BARKeR23 Mann Street, Mount Barker SA 5251Phone: (08) 8391 3022Fax: (08) 8391 3043
Regional South Australia
BeRRi28 Kay Avenue, Berri SA 5343Phone: (08) 8582 2400Fax: (08) 8582 2172
CeDunAC/- Ceduna Community Health Centre3 Eyre Highway, Ceduna SA 5690Phone: (08) 8626 2138Fax: (08) 8626 9089
ClAReClarevale Office Precinct (Office 1)17 Lennon Street, Clare SA 5453Phone: (08) 8842 3744Fax: (08) 8842 3044
KADinA15 Taylor Street, Kadina SA 5554Phone: (08) 8821 2511Fax: (08) 8821 2127
MOunt gAMBieR4 James Street, Mount Gambier SA 5290Phone: (08) 8725 5633Fax: (08) 8725 7845
MuRRAY BRiDge6 Verdun Road, Murray Bridge SA 5253Phone: (08) 8532 4503Fax: (08) 8532 3648
nARACOORteC/- Naracoorte Community HealthCedar Avenue, Naracoorte SA 5271Phone: (08) 8762 8160Fax: (08) 8762 8164
PORt AuguStA40 Flinders Terrace, Port Augusta SA 5700Phone: (08) 8641 1600Fax: (08) 8641 1800
Booklet 2: SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES 23
PORt linCOln75 Liverpool Street, Port Lincoln SA 5606Phone: (08) 8683 0499Fax: (08) 8682 6422
PORt PiRieC/- Community Health ServicesAlexander Street, Port Pirie SA 5540Phone: (08) 8638 4693Fax: (08) 8638 4355
wHYAllA5th Floor, Whyalla HospitalWood Terrace, Whyalla SA 5600Phone: (08) 8648 8686Fax: (08) 8648 8687
Other Programs and Services for Children and Young People with Disabilities
Autism SA
Autism SA provides services for people with autism spectrum disorders and their families including, diagnosis and assessment, training and consultancy, early development, school support, day options, employment services, family services, community participation, respite services and information services.
Contact details: 262 Marion Road, Netley SA 5037PO Box 304, Marleston SA 5033Autism SA Information Line: 1300 288 476Phone: (08) 8379 6976Fax: (08) 8338 1216Email: [email protected]: www.autismsa.org.au/
Blind Welfare Association of South Australia
The Blind Welfare Association of South Australia provides support to South Australia’s vision impaired population. The association can assist with residential accommodation, financial support through loans and subsidies, in-home support and centre-based activities.
Contact details:Unit 1/247 Milne Road, Modbury North SA 5092PO BOX 163, Greenacres SA 5086Phone: (08) 8334 8000Fax: (08) 8334 8001Email: [email protected]: www.blindwelfare.org.au/
CanDo4Kids
CanDo4Kids supports children and young people with a disability to become as independent as possible and assists young people to have greater access to education and employment so that they can achieve an enhanced quality of life.
CanDo4Kids provides therapy, recreation, technology, training and support services to children and young people who have a sensory impairment, including those who have a communication disorder, and their families across South Australia.
Contact details:28 King George Avenue, Hove SA 5048PO Box 43, Brighton SA 5048 Phone: (08) 8298 0900TTY: (08) 8298 0960Fax: (08) 8377 1933Email: [email protected] Website: www.townsendhouse.com.au/
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Cora Barclay Centre
The Cora Barclay Centre provides family focused Auditory-Verbal Therapy for children who are deaf or hard of hearing and wear hearing aids, cochlear implants or other listening devices. The Centre offers early intervention services from birth to six years of age and support services for school students up to the age of 18 years. Audiology services, professional counselling, family support and mentoring are also available.
Contact details: Elizabeth Forwood House185 Melbourne Street, North Adelaide SA 5006PO Box 3018, North Adelaide SA 5006Phone: (08) 8267 9200Fax: (08) 8267 9222Email: [email protected]: www.corabarclay.com.au/
Down Syndrome Society of South Australia Inc
The Down Syndrome Society of South Australia Inc offers a range of services to people with Down Syndrome and Chromosomal Disorders similar to Down Syndrome and their families throughout South Australia. These services include a hospital visiting team, a variety of early intervention programs, primary and secondary school consultancy services, training and development and services to country areas.
Contact details:Hampstead Primary School (west wing), Muller Road, Greenacres SA 5086PO Box 436, Greenacres SA 5086Phone: (08) 8369 1122 Fax: (08) 8261 7660Email: [email protected]: www.downssa.asn.au/
Guide Dogs Association of SA and NT Inc
Guide Dogs Association of SA and NT Inc provides high quality integrated services to individuals who require sensory support. Services provided by the Guide Dogs Association include orientation and mobility training for adults and children who are blind or vision impaired, specialist assessment and mobility services for people with vision loss due to brain injury or stroke, education and training for people with low vision and/or hearing loss, assistance to people with sensory loss who have complex and unmet needs, advice and training with assistive technology and mobility devices, guide dog training, support and consultancy.
Contact details:251 Morphett Street, Adelaide SA 5000Phone: (08) 8203 8333Fax: (08) 8203 8332TTY: (08) 8203 8391Freecall: 1800 738 855Website: www.guidedogs.org.au/
Novita Children’s Services
Novita Children’s Services is committed to improving the lives of children living with physical disabilities, and their families, by encouraging them to live, learn and play in an environment that is fostered by the principles of fun and achievement. Services provided by Novita Children’s Services include therapy and family support services, acquired brain injury services, equipment, toy and resource centre and inclusion support program.
Contact details: 171 Days Road Regency Park SA 5010PO Box 2438, Regency Park SA 5942Phone: 1800 337 443Fax: (08) 8243 8269Email: [email protected]: www.novita.org.au
Booklet 2: SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES 25
Royal Society for the Blind
The Royal Society for the Blind provides services to South Australians who have a severe vision impairment and assists people to overcome their vision impairment and to participate independently in the community. Services provided by the Society include braille training, accommodation support, equipment subsidy scheme, independent living training, low vision awareness sessions, talking newspaper service and guide dog service.
Contact details: Knapman House230 Pirie Street, Adelaide SA 5000Phone: (08) 8232 4777Fax: (08) 8232 4807Website: www.rsb.org.au/index.html
Royal South Australia Deaf Society Inc
Royal South Australia Deaf Society Inc works with South Australia’s deaf community to provide a range of services and programs designed to:
• extend their social, educational and occupational activities
• promote public interest in the welfare of people who are deaf
• improve access to general community services
• provide advocacy services
• provide specific support to the aged who are deaf and have other disabilities
• support the provision of housing to those in need.
Contact details: 262 South Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000PO Box 7095, Hutt Street SA 5000Phone: (08) 8223 3335TTY: (08) 8223 6530Fax: (08) 8232 2217Email: [email protected]: www.deafcando.com.au
There are numerous services available to assist you if you are experiencing difficulties because of the drought.
For information regarding assistance from Centrelink contact the Drought Assistance Hotline on 13 23 16 weekdays from 8am to 8pm.
If you have any questions relating to the interest rate subsidy contact Department of Primary Industry and Resources, South Australia Prudential and Rural Financial Services on 1800 182 235.
The Drought Link Hotline 180 20 20 links rural people affected by the drought with services and information.
If you need advice and information about coping with distress and hardship contact a Support Worker on 1800 619 532, 24 hours, seven days a week.
Your family doctor can assist with the ongoing concerns of you and your family.
‘Just Ask’ is a national rural mental health information service which can be contacted on 1300 131 114.
The Rural Financial Counselling Service Program provides primary producers, fishers and small rural businesses with free and impartial support and referral information to help clients to manage the challenges of industry change and adjustment, and improve financial self reliance. Rural Financial Counselling Service operates a help line 1800 836 211, 8am to 5pm.
Drought Assistance
This publication has been prepared jointly by:
Grandparents for Grandchildren SA Inc
This publication has been made possible through Improving with Age: Our Ageing Plan for South Australia, funds from a kick-start initiative.
Our Commitment to the Environment This publication has been produced by an environmentally conscious, carbon neutral printer using internationally
accredited processes and practices. It has been printed on recycled paper using vegetable based inks.
To request additional copies of this publication, contact the Department for Families and Communities on (08) 8413 8126 or visit the Department for Families and Communities’ website at www.familiesandcommunities.sa.gov.au
The information in this publication can be provided in an alternative format or another language on request. Please contact (08) 8413 8126.
