Major Centrelink office shut doors despite unprecedented demand
Despite unprecedented demand for support during the coronavirus crisis a major Centrelink office in Melbourne’s East will shut its doors with just a day’s notice.
VIC News
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A major Centrelink office in Melbourne will shut its doors on Thursday, with locals only given one day’s notice despite unprecedented demand for support during the coronavirus crisis.
The Services Australia centre in Victoria St, Abbotsford will permanently close after Thursday, with Government Services Minister Stuart Robert saying the agency was unable to reach a deal to stay open with the building landlord.
In a letter obtained by the Herald Sun, Mr Robert added that “despite a number of market sweeps to find alternative premises, the agency has been unable to source a suitable premises in the Abbotsford area”.
It means local residents on government benefits will instead have to travel to South Melbourne if they need help.
Melbourne MP and Greens leader Adam Bandt said thousands of people would be affected.
“Closing a major Centrelink office with just over a day’s notice while the country suffers Depression-era joblessness is utter incompetence and a savage attack on people in need of help,” he said.
“This is a major centre for people who need government support. When the crisis struck it saw some of the largest queues of people who suddenly found themselves jobless.”
Opposition government services spokesman Bill Shorten said it was “a mongrel act”.
“In the midst of shocking job insecurity, this lot think the answer is shutting up shop,” he said.
Yarra councillor Stephen Jolly also weighed in, saying it was “a kick in the guts to people already on their knees”.
“This closure will create more unemployment for staff and extra expenses and burdens for the unemployed,” he said.
Services Australia general manager Hank Jongen said there had been “comprehensive lease negotiations” before the agency was told to vacate the building before the lease expired.
“We are committed to providing quality face-to-face assistance for people accessing our services,” Mr Jongen said.
“We’ve been making rapid improvements to support the many Australians who need our help and we know people are increasingly taking advantage of online options to manage their Centrelink and Medicare needs.”
“In fact, all Medicare related claims, changes or inquiries can now be done online or over the phone.”
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