Thursday, 21st April 2017

Gippsland’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged tenants will receive improved advocacy and support courtesy of a major funding boost awarded to a local service agency.

Quantum Support Services will receive more than $167,000 in funding per year for four years through the Tenancy and Consumer Program, to provide support services throughout the region.

The Tenancy and Consumer Program will be given a 30 percent boost from July this year, totalling more than $18-million of investment over four years, seeing more than $4.35 million per year invested in the delivery of local assistance and advocacy services across the state.

The funding will see an increase in specialist advocates, improved professional development for frontline staff, priority access to family violence victims experiencing tenancy issues, and a dedicated retirement housing service.

More than $11.4-million will be given to 13 separate community based agencies to deliver the Tenancy Assistance and Advocacy Program (TAAP) across Victoria and provide localised services to vulnerable and disadvantaged tenants.

After an open and competitive tender process Quantum Support Services was awarded funds to administer TAAP for the Gippsland region.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Consumer Affairs, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Marlene Kairouz

“This funding will have very real impacts on the lives of Victoria’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged tenants and consumers, providing expanded resources and access to advocacy, advice and support services.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing;

Quantum Support Services has a long history of providing service and support to our communities in Gippsland; this additional funding will give more people in our region access to information, advocacy and assistance.