Euroa residents will now have access to a new Services Australia desk, opening two days a week at the Euroa Library.
The new service will give locals the opportunity to access Centrelink, pension support, Medicare and other vital services without the need to travel out of town.
Community members will also have access to Services Australia self-service equipment during normal library hours.
The Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, said the new desk was a major win for the community and one she was proud to help deliver.
“This is a major win for Euroa and will make a real difference in people’s lives,” Ms Cleeland said.
“For too long, regional towns like ours have been overlooked and left without the basic services that people in Melbourne can access on their doorstep.
“Without reliable public transport, our residents are forced to travel hours just to get support with Centrelink, Medicare or their pension. No community should have to put up with that.”
Local residents Wendy Greenwood and Barb Watters, with the support of GV Libraries, have been the driving force behind the project. After months of setbacks in finding a suitable location, GV Libraries offered space at the Euroa Library to house the new service two days per week.
“I was proud to support Wendy and Barb through this process and to advocate for the establishment of a Services Australia desk here in Euroa,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Their persistence and community spirit made this possible.”
Ms Cleeland said the new desk also highlighted the determination of community advocates in the face of government neglect.
“Funding for regional development has been cut by 17 per cent in the latest State Budget, down from $296.7 million to $245.6 million.
“Despite these cuts, this outcome shows the strength of our community and what can be achieved when locals don’t accept being left behind,” Ms Cleeland said.
“This is an important win for Euroa, and I commend Wendy, Barb, and GV Libraries for making it happen.”