Extreme Hardship Support Program Sessions – Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District

The Victorian Government is doubling an assistance payment for those experiencing significant financial hardship as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, as part of a $50 million program to make sure people are not falling through the cracks.

The Government has commissioned the Red Cross to provide financial assistance, information and referrals to those doing it tough during the pandemic who are not eligible for Commonwealth support or the International Student Emergency Relief Fund.

Beginning 10th March 2021, 1.00pm, the Brotherhood of St Laurence will be holding weekly information sessions for Extreme Hardship Support Program for all community organisations across the sector, including Ethno-specific, multifaith and other stake holders. These sessions will be in English, however if you have a group that requires an interpreter, interpreter sessions will be arranged.

The Extreme Hardship Support Program is a Victorian government initiative to provide emergency financial assistance to people who are experiencing hardship due to coronavirus pandemic and are not eligible for Commonwealth Government income support. From 1 January 2021, all international students experiencing financial hardship can apply, even if they previously received assistance through the International Student Emergency Relief Fund (ISERF).

Details of the sessions:

When: Every Wednesday at 1.00pm
What will be covered: what is Extreme Hardship Support Program eligibility criteria and new policy change evidence to prepare before application application process Q & A with Brotherhood of St Lawrence and Red Cross Staff.
Where: Please log in using the zoom link https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81140197489

Read about the Extreme Hardship Support Program: Malay
Read about the Extreme Hardship Support Program: Persian
Read about the Extreme Hardship Support Program: Urdu

Download the Newsletter about Hardship Support

Applicants struggling to source required information or apply through the online portal should call Red Cross to discuss their options: 1800 855 240. A reminder that Red Cross is not required to share individual visa information with government.

Emergency supports are available for people on temporary visas, not eligible for Commonwealth support or the International Student Emergency Relief Fund.

You may be eligible for an emergency payment to help meet basic needs, such as food, medicine and bills. Find out more: www.redcross.org.au/vicrelief

Help for those on temporary visas

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	The Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District acknowledges the Yorta Yorta People of the land which comprises the Goulburn Valley. We pay respect to tribal Elders, past, present and emerging and we celebrate their continuing culture and acknowledge the memory of their ancestors.
	The Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District is a peak body whose mission is to promote and represent the social, cultural and economic well-being of ethnic communities in the Goulburn Valley Region through the provision of quality and innovative settlement, refugee support, community development, and information and advocacy services.