Mornington Centrelink and Medicare will continue part time after local anger over closure plan
A decision to shut Mornington’s Centrelink and Medicare branch sparked outrage among “heartbroken and betrayed’’ locals. And their anger has forced a Federal Government rethink. But locals may have to change their weekly habits.
South East
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Mornington will not lose its face-to-face Centrelink and Medicare services completely and existing staff will keep their jobs.
Flinders MP Greg Hunt announced today that he had secured the go ahead to introduce an part time service in Mornington.
The service would provide face-to-face access and support for 15 hours across up to three days a week.
Mr Hunt announced the move this morning following community anger over a plan to close the office next month.
“Within five minutes of being informed of the Mornington Centrelink closure, I was speaking to the Minster for Government Services, Stuart Robert MP,” Mr Hunt said.
“Importantly, I have confirmed that Mornington Service centre staff will be retained and continue to serve the community at the Rosebud and Frankston Service Centres, if they wish to do so.”
Mr Hunt said he had listened to community concerns and advocated for a version of the service to remain in Mornington.
“We are seeing that Australians are increasingly choosing to use different options, such as internet based services, to access Government support.
“However, it is important that those who wish to have a face-to-face interaction have that option, as well as assistance to gain the training necessary to access newer opportunities online.”
Expressions of Interest for the Agent service will be advertised locally over the coming weeks, remaining open for 10 business days.
Go to servicesaustralia.gov.au and search for Agent EOI for more details.
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The new agent will complement Services Australia service centres at Rosebud and Frankston.
The existing Frankston, Rosebud and Hastings Service Centres will remain open serving the Peninsula, Monday to Friday, from 8:30am to 4:30pm