COVID requirements have make it hard for the DNC to open to the community until at least October 4th but staff will continue to support the community during this time.
If you need to contact the Centre, please email at admin@dncentre.org.au or direct message from the Centre FaceBook page. If you need any form of assistance, please read the articles below – they are a collated a list of services available to assist people at this crucial time. In the meantime, the Centre is hoping to support the local community by introducing a contactless “Click & Collect” printing service.
Contactless Click&Collect Printing
The Centre understands some print jobs just need to be done and can’t justify a trip to Ballarat. DNC are now trialling a form of “Contactless Click & Collect” printing from Tues 7th Sept. If you have printing you need done, please follow these steps:
- Email the job to the DNC at admin@dncentre.com.au and specify your requirements (how many copies; B&W/Color etc). Make sure to include a phone number otherwise DNC will respond via email
- Wait for DNC to advise full costs. Once you approve the fee DNC will arrange the printing and advise you when you can collect.
- Printing will be left at entry to DNC with your name for collection with an account for your print job. Please bring the correct change. DNC will rely on people’s honesty that correct fees are paid.
Please understand DNC cannot guarantee instant turnaround but they will do what we can, when they can. Print jobs should normally be available within 24 hours but this will be subject to COVID restrictions in place at the time DNC receives your print request. DNC are trialling this Click & Collect system and will review its effectiveness over time.
Financial assistance
Financial assistance is available in various forms. Reach out if you feel you might benefit from some kind of assistance.
Victorian Government Support: If you need to take time off work while you await results of a CoVid test, have to self-isolate for a period, need a support package, food suport or rent relief, then funding is available to support you doing this. There are any number of different avenues of support from the Victorian government at this link. https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/support
$250 Power Saving Bonus: During these tough times, it’s great to know there are avenues of financial assistance available. DNC are currently offering assistance to those who may not be be in a position to apply for the $250 Power Saving Bonus. Eligibility Criteria applies to receive the bonus, but if you fit the criteria and need help with your application, simply call the centre to make an appointment. DNC need an original copy of your power bill as well as your Centrelink CRN number. Appointments for this service are available on Tuesdays 2-3pm and Thursdays 11-1pm
NILS Loan Scheme: Another avenue of financial assistance is the newly launched NILS Scheme. Neighbourhood Houses Victoria have partnered with the Good Shepherd Oranisation to provide “No Interest” loans to people who may need to borrow up to $1500 for essential everyday items. These loans are provided with no charges and no interest. If you would like to register for a No-Interest loan, go towww.nhvic.org.au/nils and follow the prompts.
FREE Financial Counselling – Advice for Small Business
Are you a rural or regional small business owner navigating challenges related to financial stress or operating after drought, bushfire, storms or COVID19. The RFCS (Rural Financial Counselling Service) is a confidential, independent, local and free professional service who can assist you. The RFCS can help you to
- Gain a clearer understanding of your financial position
- Identify all options and opportunities available to you
- Access grants, concessional loans and government support
- Negotiate with suppliers and financial or insurance providers
- Plan for the next months and for the future
More information at www.rfcsvictoriawest.com.au or call them on 1300 735 578. A small business financial counsellor can meet you at your place of business, one of their local offices or another convenient location. This business has the support of the State and Federal Governments.
