An initiative of Federal MP for Watson, Tony Burke and State MP for Canterbury, Sophie Cotsis, Bill Assist involved a number of local services, council and government agencies coming together to answer questions and provide advice. Both MPs were present to answer questions from their constituents.
Given help to understand the information contained in their bills, attendees were also told about options available to them if they encountered difficulties making payments.
Ms Cotsis also helped secure a funding extension for Metro Assist, a key community-based agency in the region, with $2,407,306 granted over the next three years for its tenant advocacy and financial counselling program.
Metro Assist CEO Lou Bacchiella says it supported 2,800 new clients in the last year and many more seeking emergency relief and applying for No Interest Loans.
Ms Cotsis said: “Year after year, this organisation does so much valuable work in the community helping people in crisis and financial hardship.
“Bill Assist days provide an opportunity for people to ask questions about their bills and to get expert advice on how to resolve problems they may be encountering.”
Over 150 get financial help at Bill Assist day
MORE than 150 residents are now better equipped to deal with cash challenges after attending the Bill Assist day at Campsie Library.