Help is on the way for Wyndham families facing disadvantages – thanks to new funding from the state government.
Werribee MP Tim Pallas last week announced a $22.1 million expansion of the Supported Playgroups program, which aims to help parents experiencing family violence, breakdown or social isolation to improve their skills and gain more confidence in looking after their children.
Mr Pallas said the additional funding meant that about 416 families would be able to access a supported playgroup in Werribee.
The playgroups are run by trained facilitators, who provide specialist training advice to parents and referrals to services.
Earlier this month, Consumer Affairs Minister Marlene Kairouz visited Werribee to announce government funding for six full-time financial counsellors for the area.
The government has committed more than $715,000 for five general financial counsellors and one specialist family violence financial counsellor to work at Anglicare Victoria in Werribee.
Anglicare Victoria’s western regional director Claire Nyblom welcomed the investment.
“The ability for Anglicare Victoria to provide more financial counsellors for people in Melbourne’s western region is invaluable, particularly with growing demand and incidences of economic abuse occurring,” she said.
“Now more vulnerable people in the local area can seek the help they need to take control of their finances.”
People who need to access the service can call the Werribee Financial Counselling team on 9731 2500, the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 or see moneyhelp.org.au for advice.
