The IEU has a long-running affiliation with the Welfare Rights Centre (WRC). Many members may be unaware of the services the WRC can provide, both for workers and their families.
The WRC was founded in 1983, part of the general move towards community legal centres at that time.
The WRC specialises in advice for people adversely affected by Centrelink decisions (they were especially busy during the so-called ‘Robodebt’ debacle). Best of all, it’s free.
The WRC has a trade union program for members who are having problems with Centrelink, such as with Family Assistance, payments and debts. Union members seeking advice will be fast tracked when they contact the WRC.
The WRC website says the centre aims to help “educate people about their social security rights, entitlements and obligations and assist people through the social security review and appeals system, including Centrelink internal review and the Administrative Appeals Tribunal”.
IEU members are urged to encourage families who may be experiencing difficulties, particularly refugee families, to contact the WRC.
More information