Media Release - Andrew Barr MLA: Nation leading problem gambling service officially launched in the ACT

Today Mission Australia officially opened its new office in Canberra from where it is providing the ACT’s nation leading Problem Gambling Support Service which commenced on 1 July 2011.

Problem gambling is an issue the ACT Labor Government takes seriously. I am looking forward to Mission Australia’s contribution to combating problem gambling in the ACT.

This service is an Australian first, with a focus on both preventing gambling problems and supporting those currently experiencing problems.

It will provide counselling services - both problem gambling and financial - educational information on problem gambling, self-help techniques and important links to other services such as family guidance, alcohol and drug assistance as well as housing and employment opportunities.

Another important element of the service will be outreach services to other locations in the ACT. This will include providing support to clubs to help club staff deal with patrons who may be experiencing gambling problems.

Mission Australia is also working with the Australian National University, the ACT Gambling and Racing Commission and industry stakeholders to assist with research on the causes and effective treatment of problem gambling.

The support service is being funded through the Problem Gambling Assistance Fund. All gaming machine licensees are required to contribute to this fund and it also includes voluntary contributions from ACTTAB and Casino Canberra.

Mission Australia was selected from a competitive public tender process and currently provides gambling counselling services at 13 sites across NSW. The service has six full time staff who between them have 30 years of counselling experience.

Clients can access the support service in a number of ways including face to face and over the phone. The number for the service is 1800 858 858.

The service will extend to provide support through e-mail and online contact in the future.

Media release issued on the 4 August 2011 by Andew Barr MLA, Deputy Chief Minister, Treasurer, Minister for Economic Development, Education and Training, Tourism, Sport and Recreation in the ACT Legislative Assembly

Kids now get into the zoo for free

Great news for Victorian kids and families! The Victorian Coalition Government has just announced that it’s giving children free entry to three outstanding zoos – Healesville Sanctuary, Werribee Zoo and Melbourne Zoo.

The $10.7 million initiative, expected to give free entry to 266,000 children, was welcomed by Paul Bird, Mission Australia’s State Director, who said it was important that the wonderful learning and discovery experiences at zoos were accessible to all Victorians.

“Mission Australia applauds the government for this initiative as it will enable more families to enjoy the many experience and wonders offered by Zoos Victoria,” Mr Bird said.

Mission Australia’s 2010 National Youth Survey found the number of Victorians taking part in arts and cultural activities had dropped significantly since 2008, highlighting the need to encourage activities that engage children and their families to build their relationships and life skills.
The initiative will grant children under 16 years of age free entry on Victorian public holidays and school holidays plus weekends from 1 July – which in time for the winter school break.

The Minister for the Environment and Climate Change, Chris Ryan, said the subsidy would reduce the cost from $12.60 to zero and a family ticket would be reduced from $58 to $50.80.

Every year since 2008, Mission Australia Family Day at the Zoo, in partnership with Zoos Victoria and MetLink and V/Line, has given free entry and free public transport to Victorian children from across the state - including migrants and refugees.

Last December, more than 100 volunteers from Mission Australia, Vline and Metlink helped many first-time public transport users find their way to and from the event, as well as navigate their way around the zoo.

Further information:

• Melbourne Zoo opens doors to 3,000 children and families from across Victoria
• Adelaide kids enjoy a day at the zoo

Media statement - Andrew Barr MLA: ACT takes national leadership in tackling problem gambling

Today I announced Mission Australia has won the tender to provide the ACT's nation leading Problem Gambling Support Service which commences on 1 July 2011.

Mission Australia is a large national organisation that has been operating in Australia for over 150 years. The organisation provides gambling counselling services at 13 sites in NSW and is highly qualified to deliver similar services in the ACT.

In an arrangement unique in Australia, Mission Australia will offer both traditional reactive services to help those already struggling with problem gambling, and proactive services to help those potentially at risk to tackle the problem before it gets out of hand.

Mission Australia will be able to provide a 'one-stop-shop' to help problem gamblers and their families who are also often affected by the problem. Mission Australia will combine their experience in problem gambling services with the many other services they provide including financial counselling, support services for disadvantaged families and youth, support services for relationships, domestic violence, drug and alcohol misuse, mental illness, housing, and care and learning experiences for disadvantaged children.

To ensure it is able to help as many people as possible the support service will provide a range of contact methods, including face to face, phone, e-mail and on-line including outside normal business hours.
Importantly under this arrangement Mission Australia will work with the Australian National University, the ACT Gambling and Racing Commission and industry stakeholders to undertake research on the causes and effective treatment of problem gambling.

The support service is funded from the Problem Gambling Assistance Fund which raises funds from a 0.6 per cent levy on Gross Gaming Revenue. The fund is expected to raise about $1 million per year.

Mission Australia already has a presence in the ACT through its existing employment assistance operations. It will open a new office to deliver the problem gambling support service which will create six new full time jobs.
Problem gambling is an issue the ACT Labor Government takes seriously. I am looking forward to Mission Australia's contribution to combating problem gambling in the ACT.

Mission Australia will distribute their contact details closer to commencing operations on 1 July 2011. In the meantime anyone having problems with gambling can visit www.problemgambling.act.gov.au

Media statement issued on the 7 June 2011 by Andew Barr MLA, Minister for Economic Development, Education and Training, Tourism, Sport and Recreation in the ACT Legislative Assembly

Help a family stick together

The theme of National Families Week - ‘Sticking together: families in good and tough times’ - encourages us to think about the things that make families strong in both good and tough times whatever their circumstances.

As part of Families Week, which ends on Saturday, Australians have been asked to all take time to explore ways we can support each other - in our families and communities - through all the ups and downs of daily life.

Mission Australia would like to thank the many generous people who have responded to our story about struggling families like Gracie’s and donated to our Winter Appeal.

Like so many, the family found themselves homeless due to a series of unfortunate incidents that began when Gracie’s father lost his job. Within months they were spending cold nights huddled in the family car.

We’re now at the halfway mark of our 2011 Winter Appeal, but still have to raise a further $300,000 to reach our target and help bring more homeless Australians in from the cold and back on track.

If you’d like to support an Australian family who has hit hard times, you can donate online or call us on 1800 88 88 68.

And for everyone who has already got behind our appeal, thanks for making a difference!

Further reading:
‘Families in Australia 2011: Sticking together in good and tough times’

Media Release: Mission Australia to hold free families week community event at Miller Square

Mission Australia’s Miller Pathways will hold a free Community Fun Day to encourage families in the 2168 area to celebrate National Families Week 2011.

The Miller Families Week community event will be held at Miller Square, Lady Woodward Crescent, Miller from 11am – 2pm on Friday 20th May 2011.

Lucy Reggio, Community Development Project Officer for Miller Pathways says the Families Day aims to provide fun, safe family activities and information to the community.

“The Day aims to highlight the importance of families and provide information on how to best support children and provide parents or carers with information on how to access assistance if needed,” Ms Reggio said.

Highlights of the event will include a speech from our Mayor Wendy Waller; mobile play centre; free give away prizes and show bags, face painting; free sausage sizzle; local school performances; local singing groups; a roaming entertainer; stalls providing information on local family and children’s services and lots more.

Each year, National Families Week celebrates families’ contribution and role in our society and this year it is being held from 15-21 May, coinciding with the United Nations International Day of Families on 15 May. Hundreds of community groups, businesses and government departments register local events around the country.

The central aim of National Families Week 2011 is to celebrate the vital role that families play. This year’s theme is 'STICKING TOGETHER: families in good and tough times’.

“Mission Australia is encouraging everyone to think about the things that make their family strong in both the good and the hard times, whatever their circumstances, Ms Reggio said. “Let’s all take the time to explore ways we can support each other – in our families and communities – through all the ups and downs of daily life.”

Media contact: Leanne Budd 0457 505 342

Government Media Release: New report highlights Australian job opportunities

The Australian Jobs 2011 report was released today, highlighting opportunities and encouraging all Australians to participate in the workforce in Australia’s current strong economy.

Minister for Employment Participation and Child Care, Kate Ellis, released the 2011 edition of the annual publication at the Local Employment Coordinators Conference in Canberra.

“It is essential that job seekers, students and employment service providers have access to up-to-date information about what the opportunities are and where the jobs are now, and where opportunities and new jobs are likely to arise in the next five years,” Ms Ellis said.

“The Australian Jobs report is a key resource in helping job seekers to find employment opportunities in our nation’s dynamic job market, and for employment service providers to plan for the future.”

Australian Jobs, prepared by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations, provides key information about Australian employment figures, helping job seekers and employment service providers alike.

This year’s report focuses on regional labour markets and contains useful information about occupations and industries and about state and territory labour markets.

“Australia’s economy is strong. More than 265 000 new jobs have been created over the past year and the national unemployment rate is 4.9 per cent,” Ms Ellis said.

“The Australian economy needs more skilled workers if we are going to successfully take advantage of the minerals boom and manage the challenges of our ageing population.”

“This presents a great opportunity for Australians who have previously had difficulty gaining employment to find and to keep a job.”

Australian Jobs supports the Australian Government’s focus on developing a highly skilled and educated workforce to meet Australia’s future needs, by highlighting the link between higher levels of education and training and better labour market outcomes such as lower unemployment and higher pay.

The report highlights that 4.1 million Australians are employed in regional areas, with regional employers experiencing particular difficulty recruiting skilled workers.

Ms Ellis said that this means there are sound opportunities for employment outside state capital cities.

“Improving labour market outcomes – putting more people into more jobs – benefits individuals, their families and communities but also the whole Australian economy,” Ms Ellis said.

“The 2011-12 Budget lays out a strong plan to make the most of current economic circumstances and get more Australians into work.”

“This report shows us that there are jobs available and that there has rarely been a better time in our nation’s history for people to enter the workforce.”

For more information and to view Australian Jobs 2011 www.deewr.gov.au/australianjobs or email AustralianJobs@deewr.gov.au

Media Contact: media@deewr.gov.au

Non-media queries: 1300 363 079

This media release originally issued on the 18 May 2011 by the Hon Kate Ellis MP, Minister for Employment Participation and Child Care

Media Release: MA welcomes budget focus on disadvantaged areas

Mission Australia has welcomed the Gillard Government’s budget focus on addressing disadvantage in particular areas around the country and helping people in those locations find jobs and better participate in the community.

Mission Australia’s CEO, Toby Hall, said the organisation also supported the budget’s aim of helping more long-term unemployed people back into work.

“We think it strikes the right balance between incentives and increased resources for jobseekers and Disability Support Pension (DSP) recipients who have a reasonable capacity to work with measures that emphasise people’s reciprocal obligations – obligations we think are in line with community expectations,” said Mr Hall.

“There’s nothing in the government’s welfare-to-work changes that we think are particularly onerous. Our experience is that disadvantaged job seekers can respond positively to more rigorously applied compliance measures – if applied consistently and fairly. They provide a measure of order that may be lacking in their lives.

“In terms of DSP recipients who have a reasonable capacity to work, we think the budget changes are sensible and balanced.

“We have to get over the idea that reforming the DSP is an attack on disabled people – it’s not.

“There is no question that the majority of people in receipt of DSP are genuinely disabled and require significant levels of support.

“However, successive governments and a failing welfare system have allowed thousands of people without serious disabilities to move from the dole to receiving DSP where they are not engaged in looking for work. This is despite the fact they might have a capacity for employment and their issues could be overcome with intensive support.

“This group has genuine barriers to employment that they need support in overcoming. But they can be overcome – so let’s do it.

“One observation about the welfare package is that the government is placing a significant emphasis on Centrelink and its ability to help the sometimes vulnerable people the government is seeking to return to the workforce.

“We hope that buried in the detail is more funding to build Centrelink’s capacity to understand the often complex issues around these people.

“And while recognising the very substantial investment in mental health we think $201m over five years to help states/territories better coordinate and provide mental health services related to accommodation and admission/discharge from hospital isn’t enough. We also need more than just co-ordination – we need real housing.

“But overall a fair budget – a positive budget – for the people we help,” said Mr Hall.

Toby Hall is available for comment

Media inquiries: Paul Andrews 0409 665 495

Media Release: Qualified support for government's trial proposal for teen mums

Mission Australia has offered its qualified support to the Federal Government’s trial proposal aimed at engaging teenage mothers in education and training and avoiding welfare dependency.

Mission Australia – one of the largest providers of community and employment services to disadvantaged individuals and families in the country – said it strongly supported the concept of providing young parents with skills and education for future employability but that its compulsory nature, including the impact of withdrawing parenting payment from those who refused to participate, would need to be closely monitored.

Mission Australia’s CEO, Toby Hall, said at first glance the government’s proposal for a pilot scheme in 10 disadvantaged areas around the country deserved to be supported.

“Getting in early and making sure teenage mums are kept in touch with education and training to avoid entrenched welfare dependency in later life should be warmly welcomed,” said Mr Hall.

“We know from our experience how difficult it is help sole parents – or anyone – into work when they have no skills and when they’ve been disengaged from the workforce for years.

“And it’s not just the ‘hard’ skills that are needed for particular industries. It’s the ‘soft’ skills – the ins and outs of participating in the workforce: turning up for work on time, being responsible for your actions, dressing appropriately – that you and I might take for granted and which the young people participating in the program will need help with.

“However, there’s no question that the best results are achieved from programs like this when people participate voluntarily. We run several similar initiatives to those proposed – and have done so for many years – and they’re successful because people want to be there.

“Compulsory participation, by its very nature, fails to promote personal responsibility among those taking part and that’s the crucial part of changing behaviour long-term.

“The support provided for teen mums engaged in the program will also need to be much more than just a Centrelink ‘participation plan’ as described in media reports.

“We don’t have a lot of faith in Centrelink’s ability to understand and appreciate the complex issues around the young people who might be in this situation. We’d expect there to be a range of other supports available – including parenting and living skills – if the trial is to be a success.

“We’re also waiting to see what the government is suggesting for those parents who do have their income suspended. We’d be alarmed if they – and particularly their children – were made more vulnerable or placed in any danger as a result of a withdrawal of income support.

“But on balance Mission Australia is inclined to support this proposal. Practical programs like this are what’s needed to break the back of welfare dependency,” said Mr Hall.

Toby Hall is available for comment

Media inquiries: Paul Andrews 0409 665 495 or (02) 9219 2080

Still caring after 75 years

Colin Shipway has enjoyed a long connection with Mission Australia, starting out as a volunteer with the Sydney City Mission – one of our founding organisations – back in 1936.

Seventy-five years later, Colin is still passionate about helping people to transform their lives. At a recent event held at the Country Women’s Association in Bowral, NSW, to thank our long-term supporters, Colin reminded guests that while the society has changed, compassion was still very much alive in modern Australia.

Here is an extract of what he shared with his fellow supporters and local Mission Australia staff from Big Heart Enterprises and Triple Care Farm – the Sir David Martin Foundation-supported residential program for young people experiencing homelessness, substance abuse and mental health issues:

“Let’s start at the beginning. In 1860 a young British migrant, Benjamin Short, left England for Australia. In his homeland he had taken part in gospel meetings held by the London City Mission… In 1862 he established the Sydney City Mission, which had the motto of ‘Need, not creed’.

“In 1936, I became a volunteer worker at the Paddington branch of Sydney City Mission… which is where I met my wife. After bible college training, I was invited to join the staff as a City Missionary. I served in Chippendale, Glebe, Waterloo, Newtown and Surry Hills and later in the office.

“In 1949 I was commissioned to set up a youth department and children’s and youth camping program. Sydney City Mission had property near Bowral adjoining the Mount Gibraltar Children’s Home, complete with huts built during the war by the Royal Australian Air Force.

“My wife Rosemary and I as well as staff and volunteers ran camps in Mount Gibraltar for 16 years – and I estimated that 3,000 young people from Sydney benefited from these programs. They enjoyed pictures and campfires, sang, played sport, caught yabbies, swam and went on bus trips. On one occasion when I was climbing with a group of boys, one little fellow grabbed my hand, looked up to me and said: “Gee, I wish you were my dad - and I melted on the spot...

“In the 1960s I was brought into City Mission office to set up a family counselling service and attend to the admission of children into our homes at Cronulla, Woodford and here at Bowral.

At first these homes were for malnourished children or those who needed a holiday in the country, but then more children were coming from broken homes… As society changed, long-time care of children in homes was seen to be inappropriate, so the homes closed and we worked to support child to stay with their own families.

“I was involved with Sydney City Mission for 39 years, working as a City Missionary for 32 - I’m now in my 90th year… I’m happy to say that today all around Australia lives are continuing to be transformed by the ever-increasing work of Mission Australia.”

Thank you, Colin, for your inspiring example and tireless support of children and families in need.

Mission Australia is always looking for volunteers. Find out how you can use your time and talents to help transform lives - missionaustralia.com.au/volunteer-at-mission-australia

Building a better life

Seven-month-old Lily* was born into homelessness. While her parents excitedly awaited her birth, they felt weighed down by the uncertainty of not having a roof to put over her head.

Lily’s dad had hurt himself at work and lost his job as a mechanic just a month before she was born. With the breadwinner of the family suffering from a back injury and unable to find work, the family fell behind on the rent and soon found themselves sleeping rough, struggling to make ends meet.

Every night for eight months, the family packed up their belongings and moved to a different place, staying in motels, caravans and, at times, even in a tent. It was exhausting and stressful, and Lily’s parents felt powerless to change their situation.

Lily’s parents were incredibly grateful when they were welcomed to Mission Australia’s Brighter Futures service in nearby Goulburn, NSW. They were filled with hope that things could change.

In February, we found a safe and secure home for Lily’s family and provided them with clothing, essential supplies for the baby and food vouchers. The family received financial counselling to sort out their finances and career advice to help Lily’s dad find a job.

We recently received a card from Lily’s family expressing their appreciation for the help they received:

“There are so many Australians in desperate need who come through our doors every day. With the help of our supporters, we are able to offer them assistance to pick up the pieces of their lives and rebuild.

"You have all been so wonderful. It is hard to know where to begin to say thank you. Please know that your kindness will always be remembered. You’ve given us the ability to stay afloat and treated us with dignity. We are eternally grateful.”

This young family is now on their way to building a better life - and it couldn’t have happened without the support of generous Mission Australia donors.

You can help many families like Lily’s to transform their lives by giving a gift to Mission Australia’s Winter Appeal.

*Name and image have been changed to protect client's identity

Everybody belongs in our Home Tutor Scheme

Today being Harmony Day - a celebration of cultural diversity with a theme of ‘Everybody Belongs’ - we’d like to celebrate one of the many friendships formed through Mission Australia’s Home Tutor Scheme and Enhancement Program in Sydney’s south-western and western suburbs.

The Home Tutor Scheme is part of the Adult Migrant English Program, which is funded by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship, recruits and trains volunteers to teach English to newly arrived migrants and refugee who are unable to attend formal classes.

One of our most dedicated and long-serving tutors is Sarah Cullen.  At the moment she is working with two students, including Manizha, who came to Sydney from Afghanistan.

Sarah and Manizha have been meeting for lessons for the past four years, and have built up a firm friendship.

“I have learnt a lot of English and have a good teacher,” she said. “I am very happy because we have become good friends.”

Sarah considers it an “absolute privilege” to work with Manizha.

“I have the utmost respect for Manizha considering what she has been through in fleeing Afghanistan,” Sarah said. “But beyond that, I admire her dedication to learning English and the pace at which she has picked it up.

“Manizha is always willing to ‘have a go’ and completes her homework diligently every week,” she added.

“We have become good friends and I look forward to sharing in her future discoveries and success.”

Mission Australia is always seeking committed volunteers to teach English to new arrivals in Parramatta, Cabramatta, Auburn, Blacktown, Fairfield, Liverpool and Merrylands. Volunteers are required to attend a free 18-hour training course and are then matched with a client by gender and locality. They then visit the client’s home once a week and tutor them for up to 90 minutes.

On completion of 20 hours’ tutoring, our volunteers receive a certificate of attendance. If you would like to register to volunteer please send a brief cover letter with a resume to volunteering@missionaustralia.com.au

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Resources from harmony.gov.au:

• About Harmony Day:  Information on what Harmony Day is all about.
• How to Celebrate Harmony Day:  There are many ways you can celebrate Harmony Day. It depends on how you want to bring people together in your school, community or organisation.
• Register Your Event:  Register your event and download do-it-yourself Harmony Day products, graphics or a certificate of appreciation.
• What's On:  If you want to know what events have been registered in your area so far, or simply want to see what others are planning to do for Harmony Day.
• Harmony Day 2011 Supporters:  Harmony Day's success continues and grows each year with the continued support of organisations around the country.

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FAHCSIA Media Release: Release of legal advice on gambling reform

The Australian Government today released legal advice - PDF [1.0MB] on the Commonwealth's power to legislate for important reforms to address problem gambling.

The Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, agreed with the Independent Member for Denison, Andrew Wilkie, to commission this legal advice. The Prime Minister and Mr Wilkie also agreed that the Parliamentary Joint Select Committee on Gambling Reform would be informed of the legal advice.

The Australian Government is committed to working with the states and territories and industry to introduce key reforms which address the harm from problem gambling, including a full pre-commitment scheme for poker machines.

State and territory governments are responsible for the regulation of the gambling industry, except for online gambling.

However, problem gambling is a serious issue and the Australian Government believes more must be done to help problem gamblers and their families, particularly by reducing the harm caused by poker machines.

Research shows that three-quarters of severe problem gamblers have problems with poker machines.

Problem gambling can destroy families and ruin lives.

Problem gamblers spend an average of $21,000 a year on gambling.  That's a lot of money by anyone's standards – money that isn't being spent on food, bills or the family mortgage.

We have written to Mr Wilkie, as Chair of the Parliamentary Joint Select Committee on Gambling Reform, to our state and territory colleagues on the Council of Australian Governments Select Council on Gambling Reform, and to Professor Peter Shergold AC, Chair of the Ministerial Expert Advisory Group on Gambling Reform, to provide them with the legal advice.

The advice from the Australian Government Solicitor confirms there are a range of constitutional heads of power available to the Australian Government, including corporations, trade and commerce, telecommunications, banking, currency, taxation and territories powers.

While this advice identifies the legislative options available to the Commonwealth, the Australian Government remains committed to reaching an agreement with the states and territories to progress these important reforms.

Gambling is a legitimate industry and a valued form of entertainment for many Australians. We will work with industry to implement these reforms in a staged, evidence-based way. We have established the Ministerial Expert Advisory Group on Gambling, chaired by Professor Peter Shergold AC, to seek advice from the industry, academics and gambling support services on how to best implement the reforms.

The Productivity Commission recommended the Commonwealth intervene if the states and territories do not agree to implement gambling reforms Australia wide.

Media release issued by Hon. Jenny Macklin MP, Minister for FAHCSIA and Hon. Bill Shorten, Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services and Superannuation

Children take a break in Toukley

Ninety-five children from Mission Australia’s Brighter Futures program enjoyed their very first holiday this month, spending a week on camp in Toukley, New South Wales.

Two buses transported children from Albury, Griffith, Wagga, Cootamundra, Harden, Young, Yass, Queanbeyan, Goulburn, Nowra and Ulladulla to the Central Coast camp where they were treated to a huge variety of activities.

The children enjoyed team activities such as fishing, canoeing, swimming, snorkelling, quad-bike riding, archery, rope-climbing, craft activities and obstacle courses. They also experienced the thrill of the camp’s flying fox and high swings.

One young boy conquered his fear of heights, bravely using the flying fox and taking part in a rope climb.

“He was about to go on the giant swing and wanted us to watch that he could do it,” said Cheryl O’Donnell, Acting Service Operations Manager, Southern NSW Community Services.

“Seeing the excitement and that look of accomplishment on his face, plus the fact that someone he knew witnessed his effort, was enough on its own to say we had done the right thing to put this camp adventure together for these children.”

Another child with autism who had never spent time away from home delighted staff and his family by lasting four full days at the camp.

“It was the first time we had put together something of this size and nature,” said Ms O’Donnnell. “I went up to visit with another senior manager and we were very impressed. It was so fantastic to see so many children having the time of their lives at this camp and staff really enjoyed being involved with this.

“Although they were exhausted by end of week, each staff member said they would jump at doing it again as it was so good to see these children having so much fun. We also received a lot of phone calls from parents thanking us and saying how much the children enjoyed the camp.”

Brighter Futures is a voluntary, targeted program that helps families to build resilience while promoting healthy development in children. This early intervention program is one of Mission Australia’s 107 services that are designed to build strong families and healthy, happy children.

Supporting children and families affected by the floods

The recent floods around the nation, and particularly in south-east Queensland, have had an emotional impact on Australians of all ages – including children. Early Childhood Australia has compiled a range of useful information and advice for parents and carers of children affected by the floods.

This not only includes children living in flood-affected areas, but also those who have been indirectly affected as a result of graphic imagery in newspapers and on television.

Their latest online issue of ‘ECA WebWatch’ addresses issues such as talking with children about grief and loss; dealing with emotional distress; recognising how children display grief and ways parents can support their children in the aftermath of a crisis.

You can read ECA’s compilation of useful online articles at this link.

Mission Australia’s New Year Appeal launched today

At this time of fresh starts, Mission Australia is asking generous people across the nation to help disadvantaged Australians find their way in 2011.

Launched on Friday 7 January, Mission Australia’s New Year Appeal aims to raise funds that will assist people experiencing tough times to find a way out of homelessness and disadvantage.

The New Year Appeal highlights how specific Mission Australia services help people strengthen family relationships, escape homelessness, and prepare youth for a successful transition into adulthood.

The profiled services include Chigwell House, which is a family accommodation and support service centre in Tasmania; Mission Australia’s innovative Nightspot service for young homeless people in south-eastern Queensland; and Youth Connections in Wagga Wagga, New South Wales.

To find out how you can help an Australian in need to find their way in 2011, please visit our New Year Appeal page at www.missionaustralia.com.au/new-year-appeal

Spare a thought for the “hidden homeless” this Christmas

Of the 105,000 people who are homeless every night in Australia, about a quarter are families with children.

With this statistic, staff attending last week’s Westpac Christmas party in Sydney were reminded that not everyone had safe and secure homes to return to that night.

Before the end-of-year festivities, Westpac’s Head of Stakeholder Communications Sean Glover joined Mission Australia Community Services Executive Leader Lincoln Hopper and Missionbeat Manager Daniel Petsalis on stage to provide an insight into family homelessness.

The 20-minute discussion to raise awareness about this “hidden homelessness” came a week after Westpac and Mission Australia launched a partnership to combat family homelessness.

“What makes it [family homelessness] worse is that eight out of 10 families can’t be helped and that tears the fabric of Australia apart,” Mr Hopper said. “It’s a horrible problem that we have to solve and thankfully we are starting to make inroads into that.”

Mr Hopper said a lack of affordable housing was a central cause of family homelessness, but the loss of a job, a financial setback, divorce and mental health problems contributed.

“If you don’t have a job and you’re homeless it’s awfully difficult to find another one. Your kids won’t be going to school, and it’s going to be difficult to do anything but try to search for somewhere to live. That repeated day in and day out takes people into a spiral,” he said.

“People start to rely on the family and friends network… but after a couple of months you’re going to wear out your welcome.”

Mr Petsalis recalled a homeless mother and five children who “outwore their welcome” with family a few days before Christmas 2009: “I made the trip out to pick up her and her five kids. And being a dad of four kids of similar age and knowing this Christmas these kids were not going to be spending it at home, and there was going to be 12,000 kids Santa wouldn’t find, it was sad to see…”

Fortunately, Mission Australia placed the family in accommodation before Christmas and linked them to support services. “It was just by that contact with us that we were able to start that ball rolling, because they were going to hit the streets the next day,” Mr Petsalis said.

Westpac staff were moved to tears when Leslie Butt, Mission Australia Operations Manager Adult Accommodation and Support, shared a poignant story about a young family she assisted at Fairfax House – an accommodation service in Sydney’s west for families in crisis.

“I know how heartbreaking it is to see anyone that’s homeless, but if you’ve ever experienced seeing a homeless child, a homeless family and not be touched by that… Everybody wants to have good things for their families.

For the past eight months, the family had been living in temporary housing and in their car, so they were relieved that a two-bedroom unit was available to them:

“The car had broken down and wasn’t on the road so they had to come in by train and all their belongings were in plastic bags,” Lesley recalled. “And I remember this little girl, she would probably only be about four, came up the pathway dragging her little bag and said ‘Can I stay here?’

“I said ‘Of course darling you can stay, and she was so happy. It stuck in my mind that a little four-year-old girl was asking to stay with her belongings in a rubbish bag.

You can help Mission Australia to overcome family homelessness by supporting our Christmas Appeal.

Media Release: Melbourne Zoo opens doors to 3,000 children and their families from across Victoria

More than three thousand Victorians will experience the zoo for the first time today at Melbourne Zoo as part of a pre-Christmas event that enables social inclusion, education and fun.

The Mission Australia Family Day at the Zoo, in partnership with Zoos Victoria and MetLink and V/Line, gives free entry and free public transport to Victorian children from across the state, including migrants and refugees.

Mission Australia Victoria State Director said: “Many of us take the opportunity to visit Melbourne’s world-leading arts and recreation venues for granted, but this is the first chance many of our family guests will have to experience the excitement and wonder of a zoo.

“Our latest National Youth Survey found the number of Victorians taking part in arts and cultural activities has dropped significantly since 2008, highlighting the need to encourage activities which engage children and their families to build their relationships and life skills,” he said.

As part of its programs, Mission Australia has supported many of these families to overcome the challenges that have prevented them from participating in community activities and taking public transport in the past.

“All families have been provided with free travel on metropolitan and regional networks for the day, which will boost their confidence on public transport in the future.

“We thank Metlink and V/Line for their support,” said Mr Bird.

More than 100 volunteers from Mission Australia, Vline and Metlink will help many first-time public transport users find their way to and from the event, as well as navigate their way around the zoo.

Melbourne Zoo Director Kevin Tanner said: “We welcome the opportunity to encourage families to connect with amazing animals from Australia and around the world and find out how they can play a part in saving wildlife.”

Highlights also include face painting, music performances and chalk art, which start from 10am.

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Event details

• What: Mission Australia and Zoos Victoria Family Day at the Zoo
• Where: Melbourne Zoo, Elliott Avenue, Parkville.
• When: 10AM to 3PM on Wednesday, 22 December
  12.15PM – Media opportunities
• Who: More than 3,000 migrants, refugees and Victorian children and their families visiting Melbourne Zoo for the first time.

Interview and photo opportunities:

• Mission Australia’s Victorian State Director, Paul Bird
• Zoos Victoria CEO, Jenny Gray
• Families attending
• Children feeding the giraffes

Media contacts:

• Rachael Nightingale on (03) 9600 0006 / 0449 881 980 or rachael@fenton.com.au
• Emily Lehmann on (03) 9600 0006 / 0421 852 501 or emilyl@fenton.com.au

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Read about a special Christmas for country kids in the Weekly

The December issue of The Australian Women's Weekly contains a powerful feature on how Mission Australia helped a young single mum and her five kids transform their lives.

The article tells the story of Cindy Blundell, 28, a single mum of five young children from the south-western NSW town of Harden. Cindy came into Mission Australia's contact through our Brighter Futures program - which we provide in partnership with the NSW Government - several years ago. At the time Cindy was a victim of domestic violence and her family life was in upheaval.

Through Brighter Futures Cindy was able to get her life back on track - so much so she no longer needs our help.

The Australian Women's Weekly were so moved by Cindy's story they visited Harden in October and put on a massive pre-Christmas lunch for her, her five kids, and the town's State Emergency Service volunteers - a group that Cindy now plays a pivotal role with.

The December issue of The Australian Women's Weekly is in stores now.

Media Release: Families to benefit from Mission Australia's EarlyStart diagnosis support program

The availability of Mission Australia’s EarlyStart Diagnosis Support Program will no doubt be welcome news for many families in regional NSW townships including: Goulburn, Yass, Young, Queanbeyan, Cooma, Bungendore, Harden, Boorowa, Jindabyne, Bombala, Braidwood, Marulan, and Crookwell.

The program is specifically aimed at parents with children aged zero to six years, who have recently been diagnosed, or are in the process of being diagnosed, with a disability, disorder or developmental delay.

Chris Jordan, Support worker for Mission Australia’s EarlyStart Diagnosis Support Program says: “Our EarlyStart Diagnosis Support Program provides critical assistance to families trying to navigate their way through the often lengthy and cumbersome process of having a child assessed – and potentially diagnosed with a disability, disorder or developmental delay.

“The innovative program aims to improve the resilience and wellbeing of the family, by providing support during the diagnosis period, until ongoing support is provided.

“This is a difficult and uncertain time for most families – they are effectively in ‘no man’s land’ awaiting results which have the potential for serious, life-changing effects. It is very important that they feel supported during this time.”

The program provides links in to many mainstream local community supports services and activities for families, in addition to facilitating access to specialist services.

Mission Australia’s EarlyStart Diagnosis Support Program team recently helped a family of two children with special needs. At the time of sign up, one of the children had a diagnosis, while the other child was yet to be diagnosed. The parents did not know where to go for help.

Mission Australia’s team assisted the family by coordinating medical appointments for children, providing information on – and referrals to – relevant services, transporting family to various appointments, researching information regarding disability and support groups, advocating on parents’ behalf with other services, helping the parents complete Centrelink paperwork, and providing general support through testing and diagnosis.

Mother of the family, Melinda says: “Early Start is amazing. The support workers are friendly, easy to talk to and have been very helpful – normal everyday people who have a caring heart.”

For more information please click here to visit the EarlyStart webpage on our website.

Media contact: Sally Popplestone, mobile: 0415 547 626

Anti-Poverty Week launched in Hobart

Anti-Poverty Week – 17-23 October

The Hobart community of Glenorchy yesterday did its bit to raise awareness about disadvantage at an Anti-Poverty Week barbecue held at the Mission Australia Centre, Chigwell House.

Mission Australia staff, volunteers and members of the local community launched the week in fine festive style.

According to Family Liaison Officer Shelley Moore approximately 100 people attended - some that we provide services to as well as those from the broader community.

“It was one of the best events we’ve ever held,” said Shelley.

“It had a really nice feel to it. We had a jumping castle, lolly-guessing competitions food activities and music.”

Parents Staying Connected participants provided face-painting for the local children and staff from another Mission Australia service, Youth Connections, conducted a drum-beat session.

The event was launched by Anti-Poverty Week patron Bernadette Black, a Tasmanian author who is an advocate for young parents.

"I was a 16-year old-mum when I had my first child and I was really quite close to that poverty line," she said.

Ms Black emphasised that poverty can strike anyone. "For most of us in Australia now - with the pressures being so hard - it can be an unplanned pregnancy, a death of a loved one, it can be something that you know can happen to any of us that can get us to this poverty line when we need all the help and support of the community.”

Tasmanian Association of Community Houses representative John Hooper said it was important to highlight the services and support networks available to struggling Tasmanians.

"We're trying to support communities to assist themselves and lift them out of the situation they're in," he told The Mercury.

Mission Australia Centre, Chigwell House functions as a neighbourhood ‘hub’ offering support to families and young people in the Glenorchy City Council area of north-east Hobart. The centre offers a unique blend of community programs designed to transform the lives of young parents and teenagers in the local area. It also comprises 14 social housing units for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.