The Victorian Government’s funding for financial counselling services in Rochester will end in November, leaving many flood-affected families without access to vital support. The service, which is provided by Anglicare, has helped 158 families since it was launched in the wake of the 2022 floods. However, there are still 114 cases ongoing and approximately 30 families waiting to be allocated a caseworker.
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The Impact of the Floods
The 2022 floods were devastating for the Rochester community. Many homes and businesses were destroyed, and people were forced to evacuate their homes. The floods also caused widespread damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and sewerage systems.
The Challenges Faced by Flood Victims
Flood victims are facing a number of challenges in rebuilding their lives. They are struggling to pay for repairs to their homes and businesses, and they are also facing financial hardship due to lost wages. Many flood victims are also dealing with the emotional trauma of the floods.
The Importance of Financial Counselling
Financial counselling can help flood victims to navigate the complex financial landscape and to develop a plan for rebuilding their lives. Financial counsellors can help with a range of issues, including:
- Applying for government assistance
- Managing debt
- Rebuilding credit
- Planning for the future
The Government’s Commitment to Supporting the Rochester Community
The Victorian Government has committed to supporting the Rochester community through the floods. The government has provided financial assistance to flood victims, and it has also helped to rebuild infrastructure. The government is also working to extend funding for the financial counselling service.
The Public’s Reaction to the News
The news that funding for the financial counselling service is ending has been met with concern from the Rochester community. Many people believe that the service is essential for helping flood victims to rebuild their lives.
What You Can Do to Help
If you are a flood victim in Rochester, there are a number of things you can do to get help:
- Contact Anglicare on 1300 135 732 to apply for financial counselling.
- Apply for government assistance through the Department of Social Services.
- Contact your local council for information about other support services.
You can also help by raising awareness of the issue and calling on the government to extend funding for the financial counselling service.
The ending of state-funded financial counselling services in Rochester is a major blow to the flood-affected community. The service is essential for helping people to rebuild their lives, and its loss will have a significant impact on many families. The government must do everything it can to extend funding for the service.
Source: timesnewsgroup