Media Release by Senator the Hon Kay Patterson

New online resource for Centrelink customers

The Minister for Family and Community Services, Senator Kay Patterson, today announced the launch of Community Connect – a shared online resource between Centrelink and the community sector that will provide better services for Centrelink customers.Senator Patterson said Community Connect will be a new gateway to access Government services and facilitate information sharing between Centrelink, community organisations and other levels of Government.

“Communities and community organisations have told the Government they want more access to existing infrastructure and resources, which is why we have developed Community Connect.

“Community Connect will provide a simpler way for people to access information that currently exists across a number of independent sites.

“Community Connect gives community organisations easy access to information about local services and resources such as emergency housing, health, rehabilitation and education services, and facilities to cope with domestic violence issues.

“The website also includes payment rate estimators, Centrelink news and information products tailored to community service providers, community information and events and an online discussion forum,” said Senator Patterson.

Senator Patterson said the Australian Government is committed to helping all Australians participate and engage more productively, both socially and economically, within their communities.

“A key aspect of this commitment is working closely with communities and community organisations,” she said.

“While individual organisations will continue to work with their customers in a personal and customised way, Community Connect will be a portal and link to a range of services offered through community organisations such as Lifeline, Salvation Army, Smith Family and Domestic Violence Groups .

“Collaboration between the Government and the community is essential to make sure we deliver services in ways that respond to the problems shared customers are facing and adjust to emerging community issues.”