Emergency relief & financial support
During the COVID-19 pandemic there are a range of support services and information available to the community.
ERConnect
ERConnect is a free directory for service providers, and people looking for assistance. Find information on food relief, financial counselling and emergency accommodation, among other services, and get a list of services that can provide assistance in a location that is convenient.
Lotterywest
The State Government, through Lotterywest, is committing $159 million into a COVID-19 Relief Fund to respond to the hardship being experienced by the Western Australian community as a result the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dreambuilders
Dreambuilders provide free meals and hot drinks at their Community Meals Café, 334-336 Great Eastern Highway, Midland, each Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 6pm -7pm.
Dreambuilders low-cost supermarket and op-shop
The supermarket and op-shop is open Monday to Friday between 9.30am - 4pm. The supermarket offers a variety of low-cost pantry staples, and fresh fruit and vegetables. The op-shop sells quality second-hand goods, including clothes and household items.
Please contact all services prior to attending, because during the COVID-19 pandemic various services are implementing social distancing and may not be operating face to face services at this time.
Superannuation
Individuals can access up to $10,000 of their super in 2019-20 and a further $10,000 in 2020-21. Apply to the ATO through MyGov or find out more from the Australian Government Treasury.
No Interest Loans Scheme
Access to the No Interest Loans Scheme has been expanded. Find out more at Money Smart (search 'No Interest Loans Scheme').
Financial support
Expanded eligibility for some payments and moves to make them easier to claim. Claim online at Services Australia or call 132 850.
Economic Support Payment
$750 payments will be made to people on certain government payments. These will be paid automatically to people who are eligible. Find out more at the Australian Government Treasury.
WA Government Support
Rental evictions will be put on hold over the next six months, for those in financial distress. A prohibition on rent increases during the emergency period and flexibility to fixed term tenancy agreements is in place. There is also a reduced obligation to conduct ordinary repairs if the reason they can not do so is COVID-19 related, financial hardship or a lawful restriction on movement. Information relating to these changes is available on the Consumer Protection website.
A freeze will be placed on household fees and charges, including electricity, water, motor vehicle charges, the emergency services levy and public transport fares. No disconnection of power and water. An Energy Assistance Package sees payment increase from $300 to $600 for eligible concession card holders. Visit www.wa.gov.au and search for 'COVID-19 Western Australian Government Response'.
Moneysmart
Moneysmart provides a summary of what government financial support is available if you’re impacted by COVID-19.