Housing Choices Australia in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia | Housing assistance service

Housing Choices Australia

Locality: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Phone: +61 1300 312 447

Address: Level 3, 350 Queen Street 3000 Melbourne, VIC, Australia

Website: http://www.housingchoices.org.au

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25.01.2022 From midnight tonight, it is compulsory for people out in public to wear masks in metropolitan Melbourne and the Mitchell Shire. Please see below for tips and information on how to wear masks, when to wear them, and how to make/source them.

25.01.2022 Below are some services Victorians can access if they are feeling isolated or in need of support during these challenging times. The Older Persons COVID-19 Support Line is a dedicated free call support line that provides information and support to senior Australians, their families and carers. The support line operates Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) from 8:30am to 6pm. Call: 1800 171 866 Friend Line offers a free and anonymous telephone service that provides se...nior Australians with the opportunity to chat with a volunteer. The service is available seven days a week between 10am and 8pm. Call: 1800 4 CHATS (1800 424 287) The Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service is a free 24/7 support service specifically designed to help people through the COVID-19 pandemic, offered by Beyond Blue. Call: 1800 512 348 You may be able to get your medicines delivered to your home through the National Health Plan Home Medicines Service. Info here: https://www.health.gov.au//covid-19-national-health-plan-h

25.01.2022 Feeling like whipping up something quick and delicious for dinner? Curtis Stones stir-fried noodles with chicken and vegetables have a 15-minute prep time, and a 15-minute cook time. This tasty dish serves 4 and is super easy.

24.01.2022 The City of Darebin is offering a FREE Get Active Program throughout March and April, and it's jam-packed with great activities to suit everyone. See the fantastic program schedule below, and for more info visit: http://www.darebin.vic.gov.au//Spaces-an/Sport-and-Leisure

24.01.2022 Calling all writers! Victorian writers, put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboards) and enter the Lord Mayors Creative Writing Awards. Lord Mayor Sally Capp said the Creative Writing Awards were established to encourage emerging writers to share their stories and to celebrate Melbournes status as a UNESCO City of Literature. The Lord Mayors Creative Writing Awards 2020 will include the following categories:... - The Dorothy Porter Award for Poetry (Up to 100 lines) - Narrative Non-Fiction (No more than 5000 words) - Short Story set in Melbourne (No more than 5000 words) - Life Writing Award for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Writers (No more than 5000 words) - Script/Play (No more than 30 pages) Winning entries will receive a $2000 category prize. The overall winner of the Lord Mayors Creative Writing Award will win an additional $10,000. Entries close 31 May 2020. Find more details here: https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au//lord-mayors-creative-wri

24.01.2022 NDIS participants are now eligible to receive funding to purchase a smartphone. Low cost assistive technology (AT) seeks to assist participant access to supports and interpreting services which are now being delivered online. This newly introduced NDIS funding seeks to support people, and can be used either to purchase fitness equipment or smart devices. The cost of a smart device should be capped at $750. Funding can be accessed from now until 30 September. Find out more about Assistive Technology (AT) here: https://www.ndis.gov.au//ho/assistive-technology-explained

23.01.2022 Please click the link for more information and to view the governments recommendations: https://www.health.gov.au//what-you-need-to-know-about-cor

22.01.2022 REMINDER: Applications close this Friday January 29! HCA is currently seeking expressions of interest from our Indigenous residents to create an artwork that will feature in our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan. Learn more here: http://ow.ly/ERJp50DjgNk

22.01.2022 If youre experiencing loneliness or disconnection due to Coronavirus, we encourage you to reach out. A Victorian Coronavirus Hotline is available for any Victorians negatively impacted by COVID-19. Please call: 1800 675 398 to chat with volunteers who have been trained in psychological first aid to provide emotional support and help to callers who may be distressed or anxious. The hotline will also link people in need to community connectors for local practical supports and... social activities, such as video chats, online book clubs or fitness groups. This is part of the Victorian Governments Community Activation and Social Isolation initiative, which partners with the Australian Red Cross and other community organisations to provide support during the pandemic.

20.01.2022 It can difficult keeping up with Australian Coronavirus (COVID-19) news if English isnt your first language. SBS News lets you stay informed in your native or preferred language. With over 60 languages to choose from, you can read Coronavirus news and updates in your preferred language. Pick your language and read the latest news here: https://www.sbs.com.au/language/coronavirus

20.01.2022 Just because were socially distancing, doesnt mean we cant still enjoy beautiful art. The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is providing free exciting art experiences that people can enjoy from home. Visit the NGV website for free virtual exhibition tours and talks, drop-by drawing video tutorials and more or follow #NGVEveryDay for daily content and inspiration. Families can enjoy new ways to be creative with downloadable kids activity sheets and games, plus online lear...ning resources for students and teachers are available to support learning from home. View some art and find out more here: https://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/

20.01.2022 Feelings of anxiety are common in the uncertainty of COVID-19. Black Dog Institutes tools and resources can be accessed by anyone, anywhere to help deal with this stress. Click here to read more about the Black Dog Institute: https://blackdoginstitute.org.au/coronavirus-anxiety-resour

20.01.2022 Baking is the perfect way to keep busy during Victorias current lockdown laws. If youve got a bit of a sweet tooth, try this easy chocolate biscuit recipe! These choc chip cookies are delicious, and can also be adapted to include nuts, fruit or your favourite sweets.

19.01.2022 A new season means new delicious fruits and veggies to grow. The arrival of autumn creates lots of opportunities for new produce.

19.01.2022 During these times we encourage you and your family to stay safe. Please read through our recommended precautions below.

19.01.2022 If youre stuck on ideas for what to do while self-isolating, gardening is a great idea! This is a wonderful blog post written by someone who grew a veggie patch from scratch in 8 weeks at their rental property. View the link to read about how you can make your own sustainable and cost efficient veggie patch: https://www.milkwood.net//8-weeks-to-victory-an-8-week-ve/

19.01.2022 Feeling like whipping up something quick and delicious for dinner? Curtis Stone's stir-fried noodles with chicken and vegetables have a 15-minute prep time, and a 15-minute cook time. This tasty dish serves 4 and is super easy.

18.01.2022 The Australian eSafety Commissioner is hosting free webinar presentations to help Australians stay safer online and learn to use online tools. Webinars are free to register for and begin in July 2020. There also some really handy PDF documents on the same topics too. Topics include: how spot a scam, protecting against scams, shopping and banking online, staying safe on Facebook, selling safely online, data and public WiFi and connecting to others.... Find out more here: https://beconnected.esafety.gov.au/bookings

18.01.2022 Protect yourself and others from COVID-19 (Coronavirus). To protect the spread of viruses, practice good hygiene and social distancing. Good hygiene includes: - covering your coughs and sneezes with your elbow or a ... tissue - disposing of tissues properly - washing your hands often with soap and water, especially if you have been outside the house - using alcohol-based hand sanitisers if you have them - cleaning and disinfecting surfaces - if you are sick, avoiding contact with others and staying more than 1.5 metres away from people - cleaning and sanitising frequently used objects such as mobiles, keys and wallets See more

17.01.2022 The Australian Government have developed an app to provide Australians with the latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19). The app is very easy to use and can be downloaded from Apple App Store or on Google Play. Download the app here: https://www.health.gov.au//apps-/coronavirus-australia-app

17.01.2022 Although we are all socially distancing, now is the perfect time to get creative with our cooking. Weve got your dinner plans sorted with this spicy salmon. Tamed by a tangy, zesty yogurt dipping sauce and ready in 20 minutes!

17.01.2022 With only four main ingredients, this delicious puff pizza tart is definitely a crowd pleaser! This tart can be assembled in minutes without a knife or chopping board in sight. If you have a recipe you're keen to share, we'd love to hear from you and we can share it to our Facebook page!

17.01.2022 From October 11 - October 17, Anti Poverty Week presents an opportunity for all Australians to learn about and understand poverty. It is also an opportunity to take action to end poverty. General Manager of Housing Choices Tasmania, Kim Bomford, spoke to Anti Poverty Week about the challenges that we are facing due to increased poverty, and how we are tackling those challenges. You can hear from Kim here: http://ow.ly/j5QO50BPLnQ... Learn more about Anti Poverty Week and the Everybody's Home campaign here: http://ow.ly/n9uR50BPLnP #AntiPovertyWeek #EverybodysHome

17.01.2022 This week is Refugee Week in Australia. The Refugee Week theme for 2020 is Celebrating the Year of Welcome. Refugee Week gives a cohesive message of harmony and togetherness. Due to COVID-19 many events for Refugee Week are taking place online. For more information, visit: https://www.refugeeweek.org.au/

17.01.2022 In response to COVID-19 , the Victorian Government has introduced new help for Victorians to help with their energy bills. The Victorian Government is rolling out a team of financial counsellors and community workers in partnership with community organisations to give targeted advice and support to Victorians who need help with their energy bills. The suite of programs involves webinars delivered by the Consumer Policy Research Centre and a tailored Energy Assistance and Br...okerage Program to help people get the best value energy deal, run by a consortium which includes the Brotherhood of St Laurence, the Australian Energy Foundation and Uniting Vic. The support is available online and over-the-phone, so Victorians can access this support from home. Financial counselling is available in languages including Arabic, Mandarin, Hindi and Vietnamese. For support call 1800 830 029, and live webinars to help households manage their energy costs can be accessed at energyinfohub.org.au

16.01.2022 The Victorian Government have introduced a $50 Power Saving Bonus Payment, which is available until 30 June 2020. To maximise your savings, be sure to claim this bonus. Every Victorian household can submit a claim for the Power Saving Bonus. To confirm your eligibility, you will need to meet the following criteria: 1. You must have a residential electricity bill and be the account holder for that bill... 2. You must be able to receive your bonus payment via mail at the address of your energy service. If you dont have an electricity service, you can still claim the $50 Bonus with a gas bill. Find out more on how to claim the bonus here: https://compare.energy.vic.gov.au/

14.01.2022 Weve put together a list of useful links to help you through these uncertain times. The Red Cross Telecross is a wonderful service that can provide you with a daily telephone call to check on your well being. The volunteer will check in to see that you are well and provide a friendly voice to wake up to each morning! This is a great option for people who are living alone. Click on the link to find out more: https://www.redcross.org.au/ge/community-services/telecross... COTA Australia has a number of resources to help older Australians. If youre finding the information on COVID-19 a bit overwhelming or confusing, COTA has great and simple information on how to stop the spread and manage the risk of Coronavirus. On their website you can find factsheets catered specifically for older Australians. Click here: https://www.cota.org.au/information/covid19/

13.01.2022 While this Anzac Day is a little different, we can still show support and commemorate the ANZACs. On Saturday, at 6am we invite you to light up the dawn at the end of your driveway, on your balcony, or in your living room to remember all those who have served and sacrificed. Lest we forget. Read more about Light Up The Dawn here: http://www.anzaclive.com.au/

13.01.2022 If you're experiencing loneliness or disconnection due to Coronavirus, we encourage you to reach out. A Victorian Coronavirus Hotline is available for any Victorians negatively impacted by COVID-19. Please call: 1800 675 398 to chat with volunteers who have been trained in psychological first aid to provide emotional support and help to callers who may be distressed or anxious. The hotline will also link people in need to community connectors for local practical supports and... social activities, such as video chats, online book clubs or fitness groups. This is part of the Victorian Government's Community Activation and Social Isolation initiative, which partners with the Australian Red Cross and other community organisations to provide support during the pandemic.

12.01.2022 Today marks the beginning of National Reconciliation Week 2020. This is a time to reflect and learn about our shared histories as well as strengthen the relationships between the wider Australian community, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Learn more about NRW2020 by visiting the NRW webpage here: https://lnkd.in/gG2Cupt #NRW2020 #InThisTogether2020

12.01.2022 Today is World Red Cross Day, where we thank and celebrate the people that make up Red Cross. Last summers bushfire season, and the current COVID-19 pandemic have again shown us how important the Red Cross is here in Australia, and across the globe. We thank the Red Cross for all their work, and for always being there for people who need a hand, whether they need a lifesaving blood donation, or a shoulder to cry on following a disaster or a friendly call in the morning to ch...eck that theyre okay. In response to the Coronavirus, the Red Cross have also introduced the Red Cross Telecross service. Red Cross can provide you with a daily telephone call to check on your well-being and keep you socially connected. This is a wonderful service that is particularly beneficial for people living alone. To register for the Red Cross Telecross service click here: https://www.redcross.org.au/ge/community-services/telecross

12.01.2022 As the risk of the COVID-19 continues, we want our residents, staff and contractors to feel supported. It is important to stay informed during these times, and you can find our COVID-19 related updates here: https://housingchoicesaustralia.org

11.01.2022 If you're struggling to pay your energy bills because of the current pandemic, the government has put together some tips and ways of accessing support. Find more info here: https://www.energy.gov.au//information-australian-househol

10.01.2022 This portal provides access to the best of live music, comedy and interactive exhibits from around Victoria. It includes resources, kids activities, live streaming from the Zoo, exercise and recipe options. It is a dedicated platform to support Victorians through the Coronavirus pandemic by connecting people to our best digital and online experiences. https://www.together.vic.gov.au/

10.01.2022 Today is R U OK? Day. 2020 has presented new challenges for everybody, and it is more important than ever to check on your loved ones, and those who may be struggling. This years message for R U OK? Day is "Theres more to say after R U OK?". Visit the website for info on how to start the conversation, and to know what to say after you ask the question. Fantastic videos, guides and tips can be found here: https://www.ruok.org.au/ If you or someone you know is struggling, the Lifeline Australia support service is available. Call Lifeline on: 13 11 14

09.01.2022 Our Your Futures Scholarship Program will be running again in Semester 2, 2020. Applications are now open, closing Aug 3rd 2020. Housing Choices residents, and their children who reside with them, are eligible for up to $500 towards out of pocket expenses incurred whilst studying one of the following accredited courses: Year 11 or Year 12... VET Course Certificate Courses Levels 1 to 5 Diploma Certificates Bachelor Apprenticeship course Short courses and certificates Successful applicants in the past have used the fund to: Pay student amenities fees or tuition Purchase equipment (e.g. laptop, software, power tools, study desk, etc) Purchase art supplies Contribute to travel expenses (e.g. myki top up) For more information, or to obtain an application form, please contact our Community Development team on phone 1300 312 447 or email [email protected]

09.01.2022 Do you want $250 to help with your energy bills? Today, the Andrews Government announced it's reducing the cost of energy bills for Victorians doing it tough. Victorians who hold a pensioner concession card or receive JobSeeker, Austudy, Abstudy or Youth Allowance are eligible to apply for the Power Saving Bonus. This bonus provides a one-off $250 payment to help you pay your energy bills. The payment will be transferred electronically into your bank account approximately 2-3 weeks after you lodge an application. You can apply for the bonus through the Victorian Energy Compare website here: compare.energy.vic.gov.au/ or by calling 1800 000 832.

09.01.2022 Winter weather calls for hearty soups! This 15-minute Chicken and Corn Noodle Soup recipe is quick, easy and delicious. Itll be sure to warm you up and takes almost no time at all to make.

08.01.2022 Youre invited to apply for Housing Choices Your Futures Scholarship! There are ten scholarships of up to $500 each available this semester. The scholarships are open to residents of Housing Choices Australia and their children who will be participating in the following recognised and accredited courses: VCE/ VCAL courses Certificate Courses Levels 1 to 5... Diploma Certificates Bachelor courses Apprenticeship courses The scholarship can also be used towards the out of pocket expenses incurred in completing your Semester 2, 2020 studies. These may include course fees, textbooks, stationery supplies, internet access, excursions and tutoring. If awarded, scholarship funds will be supplied directly to the institution or provider. Simply complete the application form (link at the bottom of this post) and attach the two documents required, then submit to for the chance to be awarded one of ten scholarships of up to $500. Applications close 5.00pm on Monday 3rd August 2020. If you need any assistance completing this form or have any questions, please contact your Community Development Team on 1300 312 447 or [email protected] http://www.housingchoices.org.au//HCAL-Futures-Scholarship

08.01.2022 As the cooler weather settles in, theres nothing better than a hearty pasta bake. It makes for the ultimate comfort food!

07.01.2022 HCA is currently seeking expressions of interest from our Indigenous residents to create an artwork that will feature in our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan! Learn more about the eligibility requirements and submission process here: shorturl.at/fnzBZ Applications close next Friday January 29!

07.01.2022 We want to provide you with some clarity on what the Governments Coronavirus Stimulus Package means for you. - From 31 March, welfare recipients will receive a one-off cash payment of $750 - If you are a casual worker or sole trader, youll be able to access a Coronavirus Supplement of $550 per fortnight for the next six months... - If you are already receiving payments through Jobseeker (formerly Newstart) you do not need to contact Centrelink for the Coronavirus Supplement. It will automatically be included in your fortnightly payments - Sole traders or casual workers who have had their employment cut by 20 per cent will also be able to access up to $10,000 of their superannuation tax-free - If you are not eligible for the Coronavirus Supplement, you will still be able to claim a $750 stimulus payment from July 13 (separate to the one-off $750 cash payment starting end of March). This stimulus payment is accessible for those receiving aged pension, a carers allowance or a family tax benefit, or Commonwealth senior card holders For more info click here: https://www.abc.net.au//coronavirus-second-stimul/12078972

06.01.2022 Baking is the perfect way to keep busy during Victoria's current lockdown laws. If you've got a bit of a sweet tooth, try this easy chocolate biscuit recipe! These choc chip cookies are delicious, and can also be adapted to include nuts, fruit or your favourite sweets.

06.01.2022 Here is a summary of new restrictions announced by the Australian Government to help stop the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19). As of midnight tonight: - Public gatherings are limited to two people (except for members of the same household) - All people over 70, people over 60 with a chronic illness, and Indigenous Australians aged over 50 are advised to self-isolate - Public playgrounds, outdoor gyms and skateparks closed... - Individuals are strongly advised to only leave home: to shop for essentials; for medical care or compassionate needs; to exercise in compliance with the new two-person rules; for work or education if you cannot do this remotely (from home) - A moratorium on evictions from rental properties for the next six months on the basis of financial stress - A new Government Coronavirus Messaging service using Whatsapp and the Apple Store has been launched See more

05.01.2022 If youre struggling to pay your energy bills because of the current pandemic, the government has put together some tips and ways of accessing support. Find more info here: https://www.energy.gov.au//information-australian-househol

05.01.2022 You're invited to apply for Housing Choices' Your Futures Scholarship! There are ten scholarships of up to $500 each available this semester. The scholarships are open to residents of Housing Choices Australia and their children who will be participating in the following recognised and accredited courses: VCE/ VCAL courses Certificate Courses Levels 1 to 5... Diploma Certificates Bachelor courses Apprenticeship courses The scholarship can also be used towards the out of pocket expenses incurred in completing your Semester 2, 2020 studies. These may include course fees, textbooks, stationery supplies, internet access, excursions and tutoring. If awarded, scholarship funds will be supplied directly to the institution or provider. Simply complete the application form (link at the bottom of this post) and attach the two documents required, then submit to for the chance to be awarded one of ten scholarships of up to $500. Applications close 5.00pm on Monday 3rd August 2020. If you need any assistance completing this form or have any questions, please contact your Community Development Team on 1300 312 447 or [email protected] http://www.housingchoices.org.au//HCAL-Futures-Scholarship

04.01.2022 To help you through COVID-19, Housing Choices is now offering some financial assistance to our tenants (e.g. groceries, medical costs and utility bill relief). For details, contact your Housing Officer on 1300 312 447 or our Community Development Team on [email protected]

03.01.2022 An excellent informational video from Ambulance Victoria on social distancing.

01.01.2022 Today is International Day of Families. Familiesboth traditional and non-traditionalare the foundation of society. The International Day of Families is observed on May 15 every year to celebrate the importance of families, people, societies and cultures around the world. While we may be physically separated from our families because of whats happening in the world at the moment, we can still show our appreciation and love to them while socially distancing! Find ideas for how you can celebrate National Families Week here: https://nfw.org.au/national-families-week-postponement/