Government offers support for Wide Bay grandparents
26 November 2018
Government offers support for Wide Bay grandparents
Wide Bay grandparents who are primary carers for their grandchildren can receive financial and other support through the Liberal Nationals Government’s Grandparent Adviser program.
Federal Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien said the Government recognised many grandparents and non-parent carers faced unique challenges when caring for children, including financial strain.
“Many carers may not be aware of the financial support options available, and the Grandparent Advisers program can help them navigate the payments and services that may provide support,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Advisers will discuss a grandparent or carer’s circumstances, offer advice on which payments might be suitable, and help them identify support available through federal, state and community service providers.”
Grandparents and non-parent carers may be eligible for a range of Australian Government financial support such as Family Tax Benefit and Child Care Benefit or Paid Parental Leave; and also supplementary payments and benefits like Rent Assistance, Health Care Cards and a lower threshold of the Medicare Safety Net.
Grandparent Advisers work alongside the department’s other specialists such as social workers, Financial Information Officers and Indigenous Specialist Officers who can offer additional support.
The service answered more than 18,000 calls last year from grandparents seeking advice and met with more than 300 local organisations and grandparent advocacy groups to increase awareness of the support and services available.
Grandparent and non-parent carers can call the Grandparent Adviser Line on 1800 245 965 or see humanservices.gov.au/grandparentadvisers for advice and assistance.
