Additional Services
We provide a number of services for people who may need financial help or advice.
Complex Case Support Services
Complex Case Support (CCS) delivers specialised and intensive case management services to humanitarian entrants with exceptional needs. Commencing nationally in October 2008, the program provides flexible, tailored and localised responses to meet the individual needs of each case. CCS is specifically targeted at supporting clients whose needs extend beyond the scope of core settlement services (such as the Humanitarian Settlement Services (HSS) program and the Settlement Grants Program (SGP)). The program is designed to work in partnership with settlement and mainstream services to address the often significant barriers these clients face in settling in Australia.
Humanitarian Services Panel
CCS services are delivered nationally through the Humanitarian Services Panel. The panel comprises 38 organisations which have demonstrated experience in providing case management services to humanitarian entrants and are able to provide services on a needs basis.
MDSI has now been approved to deliver services through the Humanitarian Services Panel; some of the most vulnerable people in our community are helped to overcome the extreme difficulties they face in settling into a new country.
Client Eligibility
CCS has three main client groups:
- Refugee entrants
- Special Humanitarian Program entrants
- Protection visa holders and persons who hold or have held a Temporary Protection visa.
Clients are eligible for services for up to five years after their arrival in Australia. Flexibility may be shown to this timeframe in exceptional circumstances.
How to refer a client to the services
Anyone can refer a client for CCS assessment including:
- DIAC funded service providers
- Commonwealth, state or territory government agencies
- Community and health organisations
- Volunteer groups
- Self referral.
** MDSI has two approved Complex Case Management practitioners **
No Interest Loan Scheme
Need a new fridge, washing machine or other essential household item? A MDSI No Interest Loan can help you buy what you need.
The No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS) provides interest-free loans up to $1000 for individuals and families living on limited incomes. Loans are safe, and affordable and are completely free of interest and fees.
The application process is easy and the fortnightly repayments can be deducted from Centrelink payments. Loans can be used to purchase necessary household items such as electrical appliances and furniture, car maintenance, educational essentials and medical equipment.
Please note you cannot get a cash loan, pay credit cards, rent, bond or general living expenses.
To apply for a NILS loan you must:
- be 18 years or older;
- be a low income earner and/or the recipient of a Centrelink benefit;
- have stable accommodation; and
- be able to meet the repayment amount.
For more information on MDSI NILS or to make an appointment please call 4627 1188.
Tax Help
FREE HELP FOR LOW INCOME EARNERS WITH TAX RETURNS.
If you are on a low income and want free help filling out your tax return our trained Tax Help volunteer may be able to help you.
What is Tax Help?
Tax Help is a free and confidential service to help people complete their tax returns at tax time. They can also give you advice on how to complete your tax return next time.
Who is Tax Help for?
Tax Help is for people on low incomes including, but not restricted to, those who are also:
- seniors
- students
- people from non-English speaking backgrounds
- people with a disability
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Tax Help is available from July to November and bookings are essential. Phone: 02 4627 1188
Outreach Services
Gambling Counselling Service
University of Sydney Gambling Treatment Clinic
Phone: 02 9351 1708
Navitas English Classes
by appointment only.
Phone: 02 4627 1188
