As a student, you may be eligible to receive Centrelink payments. These payments can help to cover your living expenses while you study or look for work.
Social Security Rights Victoria (ssrv)
Social Security Rights Victoria (SSRV) is an independent state-wide community legal centre that specialises in social security and related law, policy and procedure. SSRV provides independent information and support inrelation to social security law/Centrelink issues such as;
You can contact SSRV via their website: http://www.ssrv.org.au/ or call Ph: 0419 793 652
When should I receive a response?
If you have submitted a claim for a benefit, and not received a response within 13 weeks, you should contact the Centrelink complaints line on 1800 132 468 to see if the issue can be resolved over the phone.
The Centrelink complaints line operator may be able to provide you with information as to why your claim has not been processed, provide you with information as to what further documents may be required, or may be able toresolve the issue by discussing it with you over the telephone.
Benefit eligibility basics
Youth Allowance
Austudy
ABSTUDY
How can a financial counsellor help?
Financial Counsellors help people who are experiencing financial difficulty. They are skilled professionals who will guide you through your options and help you plan your way out of debt.
They may be able to assist you by:
What can a financial counsellor provide information about?
They can provide information and advice about:
It’s then up to you to make the decisions about how to manage your situation with the advice you’ve been given.
DUSA'S financial counselling
Our Financial Counselling is a non-judgmental, independent, confidential and free service provided to inform, support and advocate for people in financial difficulty. Having the support of a financial counsellor can relieve your money worries.
To make a free, confidential appointment with a DUSA Financial Counsellor, visit your DUSA office, the DUSA website, or contact us via telephone on (03) 9246 8615.
Sometimes students ask questions that are not in relation to Academic Integrity, or the DUSA Advocates require further information so that they can answer the question. If you see your question here, we recommend contacting the DUSA Advocates. They can provide you with support regarding your circumstances and/or help you find the service you need.