Carer Support Line 1300 554 660
Christmas Financials

As the end of the year draws to a close and Christmas is well and truly nigh, it seems a perfect time to review what financial supports are available to help you stretch your dollars further or recover from any unexpected costs that may have arisen.  So, whether a person in your care needs assistance managing and saving their money or you need an immediate injection of food or funds to help make the season feel more festive, have a look through the following links to see if there’s a service that might bring you some added cheer:   

Christmas hampers/gift assistance 

  • The Salvation Army offers free hampers and gifts to eligible applicants. Call the general enquiry line for more information: 137258. Website: Food hamper and gift assistance | The Salvation Army Australia   

  • Wesley Mission Brisbane Relief Centre. Drop-In Support in Fortitude Valley: https://www.wmq.org.au/crisis-relief/brisbane-relief-hub 

  • St Vincent de Paul - As an unprecedented number of Queenslanders face a festive season filled with financial burden and stress rather than hope and joy, Vinnies’ Members and Volunteers across the state have been working overtime to gather and distribute hampers of goods, including food, vouchers and toys, for those doing it tough this Christmas. Those in need of support this Christmas are encouraged to reach out to Vinnies Helpline on 1800 846 643 

  • The Smith Family are offering  e-gift vouchers for children’s toys (in lieu of toy and book gift packs). Accessible to children who are part of the Learning for Life program. https://www.thesmithfamily.com.au/donate/give/toy-and-book-appeal 

Free Christmas Lunch Saturday 25 Dec:   

The Hope Centre, Bowen Hills: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/hope-centres-community-christmas-day-lunch-tickets-769227589427 

Free Christmas events and services around Brisbane: 

Services where your donation may be tax deductible and/or make a difference to those in need over Christmas: 

Ongoing emergency assistance and crisis payments 

Carer specific payments 

  • The Carer’s Gateway lists information about a range of payments and benefits on their website: Financial help | Carer GatewayCarers are also encouraged to register with the Carer Gateway as they could be eligible for supports to assist them in their caring role.  
  • Young Carer Bursary Program - Carers aged 12-25 years old can apply for this bursary to assist them to continue in their education. Applications are usually open from August to September for a $3000 bursary in the following year.Young Carer Bursary | Young Carers Network 

Free financial counselling services and advice  

  • Moneysmart offers free guidance and simple tools, tips and calculators to help people of all ages, backgrounds and incomes to build a better life: About us – Moneysmart.gov.au 

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