Inner west residents will benefit from a new Department of Human Services one-stop-shop in Leichhardt offering Centrelink and Medicare services in the same place from Monday, 27 August 2012.
Minister for Human Services Senator Kim Carr said he is proud of the benefits the new one-stop-shop will offer Leichhardt residents.
“This new one-stop-shop will help make life easier for inner west residents who will be able to access even more of the Department's services in one handy location," Senator Kim Carr said.
Both Medicare and Centrelink services will be available from the Leichhardt Service Centre at 23 Balmain Road, from 8.30am – 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.
Federal Member for Grayndler Anthony Albanese welcomed the new centre in Leichhardt and the news that all staff and services currently provided by the Medicare Service Centre at Leichhardt Market Place on Flood Street will relocate to the new one-stop-shop on Balmain Road.
“Having the full Medicare office combined with Centrelink in one building means busy Leichhardt residents will have easy access to the services they need without having to travel to more than one location,” Mr Albanese said.
“This is particularly good for people who are less mobile, such as pensioners, or people who rely heavily on public transport.”
The Leichhardt one-stop-shop will continue to offer new electronic payment options for Medicare services, in place of cash benefits.
People can register their bank details to have their rebate deposited directly to their bank account the next business day. Alternatively they can swipe their debit card to receive their funds immediately.
By registering your bank details you’ll also be able to claim some benefits online or directly at your local doctor. Staff can advise which doctors in your area offer this facility.
Senator Kim Carr said the Government is expanding the number of locations across Australia where people can access Centrelink and Medicare services in one spot.
"There are already more than 290 extra sites where both Medicare and Centrelink services can be accessed and there will be many more to come," Senator Carr said.