New seniors advice centre opens

Beth Stevenson, Peter Ford, Bronwyn Ritchie, Program Leader Chris Spark and Debbie Brennan on duty at the new Seniors Information Victoria centre.
A new information and advisory service for older Victorians has been established in central Melbourne.

The Seniors Information Victoria centre, in Flinders Street, will provide information about seniors issues, brochures and resources on services available to older Victorians and internet access.

Housing and Aged Care Minister Bronwyn Pike said all Victorian seniors stood to benefit from the centre, as those unable to visit central Melbourne would be able to talk to staff by phone for the cost of a local call.

‘Staff will be available to provide information about issues which concern older people.

‘These days, we must constantly deal with automated telephone answering services and electronic messages but it is vital to remember the importance and effectiveness of face-to-face communication.

‘The Government has funded this new service to ensure that older Victorians are made aware of the range of services and benefits which are available to them.

‘Victorian seniors can phone or visit this user-friendly service, chat with staff, browse publications on age issues and access the internet,’ Ms Pike said.

Located at the Council of Adult Education Centre’s shop 5, 256 Flinders St, the facility is open from 8.30a.m.–5.30p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Friday, 9.30a.m.–5.30p.m. Wednesday and 8.30a.m.–6p.m. Thursday.

The Council On The Ageing is providing the service with recurrent funding of almost $200,000 a year from the Government.

COTA has been providing free confidential information and advisory services since 1963 with queries ranging from home maintenance to personal safety, health issues and legal matters.

• Seniors from across Victoria can contact staff for the cost of a local call on 1300 135 090. Interpreters and hearing impairment assistance is available to callers.