Support services in the Bundaberg and Hervey Bay regions will receive additional funding to provide ongoing assistance to local Cashless Debit Card participants.

Minister for Families and Social Services Anne Ruston said the Morrison Government would provide almost $550,000 to the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre in Hervey Bay and IMPACT Community Services in Bundaberg.

“The Cashless Debit Card can be a successful financial management tool and this funding builds on its existing success in the region of supporting vulnerable people and families,” Minister Ruston said.

“The Government will continue working with communities and their leaders to identify critical issues and support local needs where the card operates.”

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt said the funding guarantees the continuation of the community services and minimises disruptions for participants.

“The Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre and IMPACT Community Services offer an important suite of services that will support local efforts to improve outcomes for the community and promote responsible spending of welfare,” Mr Pitt said.

“These services include full-time case managers to assist Cashless Debit Card participants to access support including financial counselling, parenting programs, education and training.”

The Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre and IMPACT Community Services will receive $547,000 of additional funding for the 2021 calendar year to deliver the services to Cashless Debit Card participants.

The new investment sees Cashless Debit Card support services funding in the region total $1,093,334.

Further information on the Cashless Debit Card is available on the Department of Social Services website.