The Albanese Labor Government continues to support Australians experiencing financial crisis with an additional $4.9 million in funding for Emergency Relief and Food Relief services across Australia.
Emergency and Food Relief providers support people experiencing financial hardship with their immediate needs, such as food, transport, pharmaceuticals and clothing.
The additional funding will resource providers to meet increased demand for support services, including Australians located in regional and remote areas.
Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said it was important services continued to receive support to help meet demand.
“We are providing this funding as part of our ongoing commitment to supporting Australian families and strengthening their financial wellbeing and capability,” Minister Rishworth said.
“We want all Australians to be able to access emergency and food relief support when they need it, no matter where they live or the crisis they face.”
The additional funding will be distributed between 192 Commonwealth-funded Emergency Relief providers and the three Commonwealth-funded Food Relief providers across Australia to help them meet the demand for their services.
This investment is part of an additional $170.9 million over six years provided for financial wellbeing programs since the Government was elected in May 2022.
People experiencing financial hardship can access free financial counselling services through the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 or at ndh.org.au, where they can also chat online with a financial counsellor via the website.
The National Debt Helpline can also assist with referrals to support services.
National and local support such as housing, meals, healthcare, counselling and legal advice can also be found anonymously through Ask Izzy.