A state government initiative that gives people access to cost of living rebates and savings will soon be available face-to-face in Wollongong.
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Service NSW’s cost of living service allows people to offset their expenses via more than 40 rebates and savings.
Illawarra residents have already been able to apply for the cashbacks online but, until now, they hadn’t been able to consult directly with a Service NSW representative about how to get the best bang for their buck.
From this week, applicants will be able to speak face-to-face with specialists via one-hour appointments at the Wollongong, Warrawong and Corrimal Service NSW centres.
People will be able to sit down with a Service NSW representative, who will help them get cash back for a myriad of expenses, such as CTP insurance and electricity, as well get access to the savings associated with the Active Kids program, Seniors cards and toll relief.
The face-to-face service begins at the Warrawong centre – the Illawarra’s most-frequented Service NSW location – from Wednesday.
Since it was established in November, 2015, the Warrawong Service Centre has seen almost 335,000 people.
The face-to-face appointments will be available at the Wollongong Service NSW centre from Thursday and at Corrimal from Friday.
The rollout follows a pilot program at five locations, which was announce as part of this year’s budget.
Wollongong MP Paul Scully wrote to NSW Minister for Finance, Services and Property Victor Dominello in July and requested that the service be expanded to include Warrawong and Wollongong.
The face-to-face services are now being made available in centres across the state.
“One thing I know is that cost of living pressures is hurting the family budget in Wollongong,” Mr Scully said.
“I wanted the NSW government to be aware of this significant pressure and to expand the cost of living service to the Warrawong and Wollongong Service NSW centres.”
People can book their appointments online at service.nsw.gov.au/cost-living-appointment-service, by calling 13 77 88, or by visiting their local centre.
Mr Scully encouraged residents to book an appointment, to “see if they can take advantage of the refunds available and put some money back into the family budget”.
Andrew Pearson
Andrew grew up in the western Riverina town of Hay and has strong ties to the region. He is a former DA journo who has a passion for breaking news and has covered everything from council and politics to crime and court.
Andrew grew up in the western Riverina town of Hay and has strong ties to the region. He is a former DA journo who has a passion for breaking news and has covered everything from council and politics to crime and court.
