Useful links
Outside the Time for Grandparents program, there are many resources for Grandparents raising grandchildren. Click on the below topics to view some useful links.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health services
Website: qld.gov.au
This Queensland Government website provides information about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health services throughout Queensland including health services – social, emotional and mental health services – youth health services – dental care – remote and rural services – transport to medical services – immunisation – breast cancer – poison information – Medicare.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Service (Qld) – ATSILS
Phone: 1800 012 255
Website: atsils.org.au
ATSILS offers legal representation for Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples in criminal, civil and family law. They can help if you need: criminal law representation and advice – family law representation and advice – civil law representation and advice – prisoner Throughcare services to address recidivism – coronial and public sector monitoring – 24 hour assistance at police stations. The toll free number operates 24 hours, 7 days.
13 YARN
Phone: 13 92 76
Website: 13yarn.org.au
We are here to provide crisis support 24/7 to yarn with you without judgement and provide a confidential, culturally safe space to yarn about your needs, worries or concerns. We will work with you to explore options for on-going support. You know you will be connected to another Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person who will understand where you are coming from and value knowing HOW to listen, without judgement or shame. We listen without judgement. Confidential and anonymous. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporters.
Mob Strong Debt Help
Phone: 1800 808 488
Website: financialrights.org.au
Mob Strong Debt Help is a free legal advice service about money matters for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples from anywhere in Australia. They specialise in the law about consumer loans (like credit cards, payday loans, car loans and home loans), banking, debt recovery and insurance (like car, home, travel, life, funeral, pet insurance). They are a non-government, non-profit organisation. They provide information, advice and assistance to individuals and also argue for a fairer financial services market for consumers, particularly low income and disadvantaged consumers.
Child Safety Regional Intake Service
Website: cyjma.qld.gov.au
There are 4 types of child abuse – physical – sexual – emotional – neglect. Child abuse can be a single incident or several incidents that take place over time. If you have a reason to suspect a child in Queensland is experiencing harm, or is at risk of experiencing harm, you need to contact a Child Safety Services’ Regional Intake Service. Trained child protection workers talk to you about your concerns for the child. They will record information you provide and gather other information that may be helpful in assessing the situation. The worker will then decide the best way of responding to the information you have provided. When you contact a Regional Intake Service to report your concerns, your details will be confidential and your identity, if provided, will be protected by law. A Regional Intake Service receives information and child protection concerns from community members, government and non-government agencies during business hours (from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday). Outside of these hours, you can contact the Child Safety After Hours Service Centre on phone freecall 1800 177 135 (Queensland only). Phone Triple Zero (000) if it’s an emergency or if you believe a child is in immediate danger or in a life-threatening situation.
Australian Child Care Alliance QLD
Phone: 07 3808 2366
Website: childcarealliance.org.au
Childcare Queensland underwent a rebranding process in 2014 and merged with other state associations across Australia to form Australian Childcare Alliance (ACA). ACA is a unified national body that represents the interests of the long day care sector across Australia. ACA Qld has existed in various forms for more than 30 years and is run by a management committee comprised of its members. The management committee are owners, operators and managers of long day care services with extensive knowledge and experience in the fields of early childhood, education and training, and management.
Centrelink – Child Care Subsidy
Website: servicesaustralia.gov.au
Assistance to help you with the cost of child care. To get Child Care Subsidy (CCS) you must: – care for a child 13 or younger who’s not attending secondary school, unless an exemption applies – use an approved child care service – be responsible for paying the child care fees – meet residency and immunisation requirements. CCS replaced Child Care Benefit and Child Care Rebate when they stopped on 1 July 2018.
Child Care Finder
Website: childcarefinder.gov.au
Early learning and child care provides the foundation for children to develop both educationally and socially in a safe environment, while supporting parents into work. The Australian Government provides a number of subsidies and programs to help you with the cost of your child care. More information about Centre Based Day Care, Family Day Care, In Home Care, Outside School Hours Care, Preschool and Kindergarten Programs can be found at the link above.
Foster and Kinship Care Support Line
Phone: 1300 729 309
Website: qld.gov.au
In response to COVID-19, the Foster and kinship carer support line – provided by the Child Safety After Hours Service Centre – has been enhanced, with additional staff recruited and support extended to include business hours. The team includes experienced foster and kinship care workers who value and appreciate the voluntary and challenging role that foster and kinship carers undertake in providing care and safety to the most vulnerable children in Queensland. The workers have many years of experience working with foster and kinship carers and specialist knowledge to support them during this difficult time. Call 1300 729 309 (24 hours, 7 days a week). The support line provides support to foster and kinship carers, including: – clear information in relation to COVID-19 related matters – direct phone support to carers who call the line – crisis response and support – proactive support to carer households and to new Provisionally Approved Carers.
Child Care and Playgroups
Website: qld.gov.au
Queensland Government website containing information about playgroups, types of early childhood services, finding and choosing an early childhood service, quality assessments and ratings, kindergarten programs, preparing for Prep, rebates and financial assistance, family support services, complaints about child care services and contacts for more information.
Family Relationship Advice Line
Phone: 1800 050 321
Website: familyrelationships.gov.au
The Family Relationship Advice Line is a national telephone service established to assist families affected by relationship or separation issues. The Advice Line provides information on family relationship issues and advice on parenting arrangements after separation. It can also refer callers to local services that can provide assistance. The Advice Line complements the information and services offered by the new Family Relationship Centres. It ensures that people who are not able to attend a Centre can be helped. The Family Relationship Advice Line 1800 050 321 is available from 8 am to 8 pm, Monday to Friday, and 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday (local time), except national public holidays. What can you expect to Recieve? The Family Relationship Advice Line will be available to provide you with: Information about services to help people maintain healthy relationships. Information about the family law system. Advice on family separation issues. Guidance on developing workable parenting arrangements after family separation. Advice about the impact of conflict on children. Referral to Family Relationship Centres and other dispute resolution services. Organisation of telephone dispute resolution for people unable to attend a family dispute resolution service. Referral to a range of other services to help with family relationship and family separation issues.
Parentline
Phone: 1300 301 300
Website: parentline.com.au
Parentline is a confidential telephone counselling service aimed at providing professional counselling and support for parents and all who have the care of children. Parenting is the most important task in our community. Often it is a puzzling and difficult task. Sometimes, it just seems too hard. At those times, you need someone experienced and trained to talk things over with and to get some guidance on ways to manage your children, and yourself, more effectively. Parentline supports and nurtures positive, caring relationships between parents, children, teenagers and the significant other people who are important to the well-being of families. Whatever the situation: a new addition to the family, concerns about children growing up, the pressures and responsibilities of parenting, the need to find some time for themselves… or just the need to have someone listen to them for a change! Parentline is there for you.
Relationships Australia
Phone: 1300 364 277
Website: relationships.com.au
Providing support and guidance to grandparents who are the primary care providers for grandchildren. Relationships Australia can help you to – develop a positive relationship with your grandchildren – maintain relationships with friends and family – manage and maintain contact between grandchildren and their biological parents – access information and referrals for appropriate services – maintain your self identity and independence – bridge the generation gap between you and your grandchildren.
UnitingCare Community QLD
Website: uccommunity.org.au
Counselling is a process of talking, listening and working issues through which help to creatively resolve problems. There are counselling centres operated by the UnitingCare community across Queensland. Most of the services that offer counselling have particular programs aimed at assisting families to cope. Many of the centres provide workshops that focus on issues like anger management, self esteem, communication skills and improving parenting techniques in face to face or group programs and through individual counselling sessions. To locate a counselling service in your area click on the link.
Lifeline
Phone: 13 11 14
Website: lifeline.org.au
You are not alone. We’re here to listen. Every 30 seconds, a person in Australia reaches out to Lifeline for help. We are a national charity providing all Australians experiencing emotional distress with access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services. We exist so that no person in Australia has to face their darkest moments alone.
Headspace
Phone: 1800 650 890
Website: headspace.org.au
Headspace is a confidential, free and secure space where young people 12 – 25 or their family can chat, email or speak on the phone with a qualified youth mental health professional. Visit the eheadspace website or call 1800 650 890. If you are in an emergency situation or need immediate assistance, contact emergency services on 000. If you need to speak to someone urgently, call Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 or Lifeline 13 11 14.
Mental Health Care Plan
Website: healthdirect.gov.au
If you are experiencing issues or concerns about your mental wellbeing, you might be eligible for a mental health care plan which can help you get appropriate support and treatment. A mental health care plan is a plan your doctor writes with you about treating a mental health condition. It helps you to access eligible allied health professionals like psychologists, social workers or occupational therapists who can help you to get better and live well. A mental health care plan can be useful for people with minor mental health conditions or very serious conditions, short-term concerns or long-term illnesses. You don’t already have to be diagnosed with a mental health condition to talk to your doctor about making a mental health care plan. Having a mental health care plan makes appointments with eligible allied health professionals more affordable. If you have a mental health care plan, you are entitled to a Medicare rebate on up to 20 individual sessions or group appointments with a psychologist, social worker or occupational therapist in a calendar year. To start with, your doctor or psychiatrist will refer you for up to 6 sessions at a time. If you need more, they can refer you for further sessions. A mental health care plan needs to be created by your doctor. You can visit your regular GP, or if you don’t have a doctor you normally see, any GP can create a mental health care plan for you. Creating a plan can take a little longer than a normal appointment, so it can help to ask for a longer or double appointment when you make your booking. Your doctor can refer you to a service in the area, or, if you want you can research before you go to the doctor what service you might like to use. beyondblue have a national directory you can use to find a service in your area.
Asperger Services Australia
Phone: 07 3865 2911
Website: asperger.asn.au
Asperger Services Australia started as a small support group for parents of children with Asperger’s and we’ve been helping individuals and families since 1994. We believe in peer led support and the majority of our staff are volunteers with direct ‘lived’ experience with Asperger’s. We offer four key ways to help families, including: peer support groups; life skills programs; information support and referral services; and peer mentoring.
Hearing Australia
Phone: 134 432
Website: hearing.com.au
Your hearing is our passion. For over 70 years, we’ve had the privilege of helping Australians rediscover the joy of sound, keeping you connected to the people and life you love. With a dedicated team, we are the nation’s largest provider of government-funded hearing services for children, young adults under 26, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, pensioners and veterans. With over 600 locations across Australia, we’ll work with you to deliver on our promise to offer world-leading hearing solutions anyone can access– to make a difference to you, your family as well as the communities we serve.
Autism Queensland
Website: autismqld.com.au
Autism Queensland provides a comprehensive range of education, therapy and support services to assist people of all ages on the autism spectrum, their families, and the professionals working with them.
Carer Gateway
Phone: 1800 422 737 Website: www.carergateway.gov.au/
Carer Gateway is a national online and phone service that provides practical information and resources to support carers. The interactive service finder helps carers connect to local support services.
Companion Card
Phone: 137 468
Website: qld.gov.au
If you have a disability and a lifelong need for ‘attendant care support’ in order to participate in community activities and attend venues, the Companion Card can help you with the costs of getting out and about with the support of a companion. Companion Card holders receive a second ‘companion’ ticket at no charge at participating venues and on public transport. The ‘companion’ ticket is also exempt from booking fees. The Companion Card is issued in the name of the person who has a disability, and is valid for 5 years. A companion is any person who accompanies a cardholder and provides attendant care support. The cardholder’s chosen companion may be a paid or unpaid assistant or carer, family member, friend or partner.
NDIS – National Disability Insurance Scheme
Phone: 1800 800 110
Website: ndis.gov.au
The NDIS is Australia’s first national Scheme for people with disability. It provides funding directly to individuals. The NDIS can provide all people with disabilities with information and connections to services in their communities such as doctors, sporting clubs, support groups, libraries and schools, as well as information about what support is provided by each state and territory government.
Disability Gateway
Phone: 1800 643 787
Website: disabilitygateway.gov.au
The Disability Gateway has information and services to help people with disability, their family, friends and carers, to find the support they need in Australia.
People With Disability
Website: qld.gov.au
Queensland Government website containing information about support for adults, children and young people with a disability and their families, carers and friends.
Computers 4 Learning
Website: nundahrotary.org.au
Nundah Rotary’s Computers 4 Learning project can provide low cost, refurbished computers to people of any age who are disadvantaged by the lack of access to a computer AND who meet their eligibility criteria. To be eligible for a computer, you must have a valid pension card, healthcare card or student card, or similar and must be followed by a letter of support from an appropriate third party. Support letters can be accepted from: A school teacher on School stationery only, a person of standing in the community (eg. a policeman, medical doctor or minister of religion who is personally familiar with the eligible beneficiary), a worker of a recognised community service organisation, or an employee of a registered or non-profit organisation on official organisation stationery only. Letters from third parties only need to contain a statement that the writer has investigated the circumstances of the applicant and are satisfied that the applicant meets the criteria advertised on the Computers 4 Learning web site.
Education Queensland
Phone: 137 468
Website: education.qld.gov.au
Queensland Government website for parents and carers containing information about enrolment, starting school, school information, activities and sports, parent and community engagement and parent participation.
SPELD Qld
Phone: 07 3391 7900
Website: speld.org.au
SPELD Qld provides support and services for students and adults experiencing learning differences, their families and professionals. Speld Qld is a state wide organisation working with State, Catholic and Independent schools and also offering services to training organisations and workplaces. Working with families and teachers, our not for profit organisation provides evidence-based advice and services to assist students to meet their individual educational needs. Support includes an advisory line, assessment service, assistive technology, intensive literacy programs, parent support groups, learning at home resources and library.
Learning@home Website
Website: education.qld.gov.au
The Department of Education has a number of online tools and resources to support students. Curriculum resources are available for students to complete at their own pace. Students in Prep to Year 3 may require support to read and understand instructions. The resources provided here are a sample of activities that can be printed and are designed as a support tool for students to continue their learning and engage in familiar activities essential to their learning and wellbeing. Additional online resources are available for Queensland state school students through the Learning Place website using student log in. This is the same logon and password that students use to log onto the computers in their classrooms.
NILS – No Interest Loan Scheme
Phone: 13 64 57
Website: goodshep.org.au
A No Interest Loan can be used to pay for education essentials like laptops and books. You are eligible if: you have a Health Care Card / Pension Card or earn less than $45,000 a year after tax ($60,000 for couples or people with dependants); you have lived at your current or previous address for at least 3 months; you can show that you have the capacity to repay the loan.
Saver Plus Program
Phone: 1300 610 355
Website: anz.com.au
Eligible participants who complete the Saver Plus Program have their savings matched (up to $500) by ANZ for education-related expenses for themselves or their children. Saver Plus is a 10 month financial education and matched savings program developed by ANZ and the Brotherhood of St Laurence. Saver Plus is available through a range of community agencies in 60 locations across Australia.
Spark Their Future
Website: sparktheirfuture.qld.edu.au
A Department of Education online resource for parents of teenagers who are struggling to stay engaged in school or learning. When your child is struggling at school or refusing to go to school, knowing you are on their side is what matters most. Every child has something to offer and deserves success, whatever that looks like for them. Keep believing in your child and work with them to find something that brings them joy – an activity or interest they want to spend time on. When your child does something they enjoy and can learn to do it well, it helps build their confidence. Over time, and with the right support, you can grow that spark inside your child. And as your child’s confidence grows, and with your help, they will feel ready to get their learning back on track so they can get the most out of going to school.
Food and Bills
Website: moneysmart.gov.au
Charities and community organisations have emergency relief services to help you with things like – food vouchers or food parcels – transport vouchers – chemist vouchers – clothing or furniture – part-payment of utility bills – help with back-to-school costs. Contact your nearest Salvation Army on 13 72 58 or St Vincent de Paul Society on 13 18 12 or your local community centre, church or community organisation.
Australian Tax Office
Phone: 13 28 65
Website: ato.gov.au
This website contains general information relating to your tax return, linking myGov to the Australian Tax Office, investments and assets, Medicare and private health insurance, superannuation, reporting scams, support in difficult times, as well as online tools and calculators.
Grandparent Adviser – Services Australia
Phone: 1800 245 965
Website: servicesaustralia.gov.au
Grandparent Advisers can tell you about payments and support services based on your needs. They can give you information about Centrelink, Medicare or Child Support. They can also refer you to federal, state and community services in your area. Grandparent Advisers can help you and your family while you adjust to your change in circumstances. If you need additional support they can book your appointments with – social workers – Multicultural Service Officers – Indigenous Service Officers – Financial Information Service officers or Community Engagement Officers.
Financial Counselling
Phone: 1800 007 007
Website: ndh.org.au
Financial counselling helps you manage your debts and get your finances back under control. This financial counselling service is free, confidential and independent. It’s a not-for-profit, community-based service that’s available to people in Australia suffering financial difficulty.
No Interest Loan Scheme – NILS
Phone: 13 64 57
Website: goodshep.org.au
No Interest Loans (NILs) provide individuals and families on low incomes with access to safe, fair and affordable credit. NILs is offered by 170 local community organisations in over 600 locations across Australia. Chances are there’ll be a local NILS provider near you or one who can help over the phone. No Interest Loans are for the purchase of essential goods and services such as car repairs, medical and dental expenses, education essentials like laptops and books, household items like fridges and washing machines, and other requested items like household furniture and repairs. Loans cannot be used to pay for food, rent, bills, cash or debts. Eligibility criteria apply.
Advance Payment – Services Australia
Website: servicesaustralia.gov.au
You may get part of your income support payment or Family Tax Benefit (Part A) early. This is an advance payment. You pay it back later out of your payments from Centrelink. There is a limit on how much money Centrelink can advance you. The amount depends on what kind of payment you get. Eligibility criteria apply. Contact your regular payment line and say you want to apply for an advance.
Household Relief
Phone: 1300 121 130
Website: householdrelief.org.au
Household Relief is a free, friendly, confidential service available for Australian households financially impacted, in any way, since 1 February 2020 due to Covid-19. Have you or your partner’s income reduced (due to job loss, reduced hours, lockdown restrictions, awaiting test results, contact tracing or illness)? Have you incurred additional expenses due to Covid-19? Has your ex-partner’s reduced income impacted your household? Eligibility criteria apply.
Moneysmart
Website: moneysmart.gov.au
Moneysmart is brought to you by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), the corporate, markets, financial services and consumer credit regulator in Australia. They’re committed to helping Australians of all ages, backgrounds and incomes to increase their financial wellbeing and build a better life. Through the Moneysmart website they – encourage saving – provide simple steps for the 1 in 3 people who feel stressed and overwhelmed by money – encourage informed use of financial products and services – increase retirement preparedness – provide specialist support for priority audiences.
Scamwatch
Website: scamwatch.gov.au
Scamwatch is run by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). It provides information to consumers and small businesses about how to recognise, avoid and report scams, as well as where to get help. The ACCC does not give legal advice and is unable to offer assistance in individual cases or to investigate each scam reported to us.
13Health
Phone: 13 43 25 84
Website: health.qld.gov.au
13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) is a confidential phone service that provides health advice to Queenslanders. You can phone and talk to a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for the cost of a local call. If you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, you can ask to speak with an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Registered Nurse. 13 HEALTH provides qualified health advice—it is not a diagnostic service and should not replace medical consultation. In an emergency always dial 000.
Child Health Phone Support
Phone: 13 43 25 84
Website: qld.gov.au
13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) – ask for the Child Health Nurses Queenslanders can speak with a Child Health Nurse from 6:30 am to 11 pm every day for the cost of a local call (additional call charges may apply from mobiles and payphones). We offer help when you need it. There’s no need to go out or make an appointment, you can talk to us over the phone. We have information about local community resources and can recommend credible online sources of information. Registered Nurses in the Child Health Team have been educationally prepared to provide specialist care for children and their families and can provide you with information on local Child health services in your community. The advice is confidential, qualified and supportive. Phone 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) and ask for the Child Health Nurse. What does a Child Health Nurse do? Child Health Nurses support families with parenting concerns from newborns through to young people including: Breastfeeding advice Formula feeding advice Nutrition advice and family foods Normal growth and development Sleep problems Crying or “hard to settle” babies Mum or Dad “adjustment to parenthood” Immunisation Ideas on how to make your home safer for baby Toddler issues Parenting support
Child and Youth Mental Health Service – CYHMS
Phone: 07 3310 9444
Website: childrens.health.qld.gov.au
Child and Youth Mental Health Service (CYMHS) specialises in helping infants, children and young people up to the age of 18 who have complex mental health needs. We provide community- and hospital-based services, outreach and telepsychiatry programs, early intervention, forensic and other specialty services to more than 2,500 children and young people each year. We work collaboratively and in a recovery-oriented way with infants, children and young people and their families. This means we recognise and help build on individual and family strengths for better health and wellbeing. By working together, we support children and young people to get back on track to reach their optimal mental health. We have community-based CYMHS teams working across the Greater Brisbane and Pine Rivers regions supporting local communities in our catchment area, but also provide outreach services and support across Queensland through our specialist programs. Child and Youth Mental Health Management Unit This unit manages all services within the Child and Youth Mental Health Service. Operating hours Mon-Fri, 8.30am-5pm. t: +61 7 3310 9444 f: +61 7 3310 9498 e: CHQ-CYMHS-admin@health.qld.gov.au Child and Youth Mental Health emergencies Call 000 or attend your nearest hospital emergency department or phone the Acute Response Team Crisis Line, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week t: 07 3068 2555
Immunisations
Phone: 137 468
Website: qld.gov.au
Why is immunisation so important? Immunisation is a simple, safe and effective way of protecting your child and yourself against some diseases which can cause serious illnesses and sometimes death. Also if your child is protected, he or she will not be able to pass the infection on to other people, especially very young babies who are not yet fully immunised. To obtain further information on immunisations click on the website link above.
National Bowel Cancer Screening Program
Website: health.qld.gov.au
The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP) aims to help detect bowel cancer early and reduce the number of Australians who die each year from the disease. Eligible people are sent a bowel cancer screening kit by mail containing a Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT). While bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men and women, it is one of the most treatable cancers if found early. By 2020, all eligible Australians aged between 50 and 74 years will be invited to screen every two years. This ensures that the Program is consistent with the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) clinical guidelines which recommend screening every two years from age 50.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Services
Website: qld.gov.au
Information about health services and staying active for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples can be found at the above link.
Alcohol and Drug Support
Phone: 1800 177 833
Website: adis.health.qld.gov.au
Free, anonymous and confidential counselling, information and advice is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, from the Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS).
National Coronavirus Helpline
Phone: 1800 020 080
Website: health.gov.au
If you need information about COVID-19, COVID-19 vaccines or help with the COVIDSafe app, call 1800 020 080. If you need help with booking a COVID-19 vaccine appointment, the helpline is unable to book appointments for you. The Helpline can assist you to locate a vaccine clinic and provide you with contact information to make a booking.
Beyond Blue
Phone: 1300 22 4636
Website: beyondblue.org.au
We all have good days and bad days. Then there are those days when something isn’t quite right, you’ve got something on your mind, or things just seem too much. Whatever it may be, it can make a real difference having someone to talk to. To hear what you have to say. And to give you advice. So, no matter who you are, or how you’re feeling, reach out to Beyond Blue for support – they’ll point you in the right direction so you can get the help you need. Last year people in Australia accessed their service more than 254,000 times to discuss their concerns – both big and small – and you can too. All calls and chats are one-on-one with a trained mental health professional, and completely confidential. Although they may ask for your first name and some general details, you can let them know if you’d like to remain anonymous.
Kids Helpline
Phone: 1800 55 1800
Website: kidshelpline.com.au
Kids Helpline is Australia’s only free (even from a mobile), confidential 24/7 online and phone counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25. Qualified counsellors at Kids Helpline are available via WebChat, phone or email anytime and for any reason. Since 1991, Australia’s kids and young people have been turning to their professional, specialised counsellors, no matter who they are, where they live or what they want to talk about. For some young people, connecting with Kids Helpline has been a life-saving experience, while for others it’s about practical help and emotional support at the critical moment they need someone to listen.
DVConnect Womensline
Phone: 1800 811 811
Website: dvconnect.org
DVConnect Womensline is a statewide telephone service offering free professional and non-judgemental telephone support to women who are experiencing domestic or family violence. They can help women obtain safe refuge accommodation, confidential counselling and referral to other services. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
DVConnect Mensline
Phone: 1800 600 636
Website: dvconnect.org
DVConnect Mensline is a statewide telephone service offering free confidential counselling, referral and support to men affected by domestic and family violence. 9am – 12 midnight, 7 days a week.
1800 RESPECT
Phone: 1800 737 732
Website: 1800respect.org.au
1800RESPECT is a national service providing confidential information, counselling and support to people impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence and abuse. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Elder Abuse Prevention Unit
Phone: 1300 651 192
Website: eapu.com.au
The Elder Abuse Prevention Unit promotes the rights of older people to live free from abuse. It operates Queensland’s Elder Abuse Helpline, which is a first port-of-call for support, referrals and information. It provides free assistance to anyone who experiences, witnesses or suspects the abuse of an older person by someone they know and trust. When you call the helpline, you may remain anonymous if you choose. Your call will be confidential and staff will operate with an older person focus, giving you the time to talk things over at your own pace. The helpline is not a crisis line, reporting agency, investigation service and does not undertake case work, however they may be able to refer you to agencies who do all of those things.
Suicide Call Back Service
Phone: 1300 659 467
Website: suicidecallbackservice.org.au
Suicide Call Back Service is a nationwide service providing 24/7 telephone and online counselling to people affected by suicide. Phone and online counselling is seen by many to be a helpful alternative to traditional face-to-face counselling because of its less confronting approach. Their professionally trained counsellors have specialist skills in working with suicide-related issues and they can help you to work through the pain and distress you may be feeling. In an emergency read their advice for what you can do if you are with the person at risk, or if the person at risk has called you. If someone’s life is in danger or there is an immediate risk of harm, call emergency services on 000.
Lifeline Australia
Phone: 13 11 14
Website: lifeline.org.au
You are not alone. We’re here to listen. Every 30 seconds, a person in Australia reaches out to Lifeline for help. We are a national charity providing all Australians experiencing emotional distress with access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services. We exist so that no person in Australia has to face their darkest moments alone.
ADIS – Alcohol and Drug Support
Phone: 1800 177 833
Website: adis.health.qld.gov.au
ADIS is a 24 hour, 7 day a week confidential support service for people in Queensland with alcohol and other drug concerns, their loved ones and health professionals. You can call our team at any time for counselling, information and advice. Experienced counsellors are here to listen and give you options about the next steps.
Sane Australia
Phone: 1800 18 7263
Website: sane.org
Sane Australia provides support to anyone in Australia affected by complex mental health issues, as well as their friends, family members and health professionals.
Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA)
Phone: 1300 366 311
Website: rta.qld.gov.au
The Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) is a state government statutory authority that helps make renting work for everyone. They provide tenancy information and support, bond management, dispute resolution, investigations and prosecutions, and education services.
RentConnect
Phone: 13 74 68
Website: qld.gov.au
The RentConnect service helps Queenslanders find and apply for a place to rent. This service may help you if you’re struggling to access the private rental market due to non-financial barriers, such as – limited rental history – a lack of skills, knowledge or understanding of how the private rental market works – a lack of documents required for private rental applications. RentConnect provides a range of information and practical assistance to help you overcome these barriers.
National Rental Affordability Scheme (NRAS)
Phone: 13 74 68
Website: qld.gov.au
The National Rental Affordability Scheme (NRAS) aims to – reduce rental costs for low to medium income households and increase the number of more affordable rental houses. To become a registered prospective tenant under the NRAS in Queensland, eligibility criteria apply. To register, contact the Queensland Government.
Queensland Statewide Tenant Advice and Referral Service (QSTARS)
Phone: 1300 744 263
Website: qstars.org.au
The Queensland Statewide Tenant Advice and Referral Service (QSTARS) helps Queensland tenants understand and exercise their rights and responsibilities under the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008. QSTARS can provide advice and help you to – understand your tenancy rights and responsibilities – resolve a tenancy issue – talk to your lessor or agent – write a letter or fill in tenancy forms – attend or prepare for a Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal tenancy hearing. This service is funded by the Queensland Government and managed by Tenants Queensland and delivered in collaboration with partner organisations across Queensland.
Bond Loans and Rental Grants
Phone: 13 74 68
Website: qld.gov.au
A Bond Loan is an interest-free and fee-free loan to cover the rental bond when you move into private rental accommodation. The loan amount is a maximum of 4 weeks rent and must be repaid. Bond loans are available to eligible people only. Bond Loan Plus is an interest-free and fee-free loan to cover the rental bond plus an amount equal to 2 weeks rent for the property you want to rent. The loan amount is a maximum of 6 weeks rent and must be repaid. A Rental Grant is a one-off grant of 2 weeks rent for people in a housing crisis. It helps pay for the cost of moving into private rental accommodation. Rental Grants are available to eligible people only.
Public and Community Housing
Phone: 13 74 68
Website: qld.gov.au
Social housing is available to provide housing stability to vulnerable people who aren’t able to access and sustain housing in the private market. You must meet eligibility criteria to receive social housing.
Homeless Hotline
Phone: 1800 474 753
Website: qld.gov.au
Homeless Hotline is a phone information and referral service for people who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of homelessness. Homeless Hotline helps – single people aged over 16 – mothers with children – fathers with children – families – couples – those experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. When you call, they will provide information about where you can find support, accommodation, meals or showers. In some cases you may be referred to other services to help you further.
Home Assist Secure
Phone: 13 74 68
Website: qld.gov.au
Home Assist Secure is a service for Queenslanders aged 60 years and over, or people of any age with a disability, who can’t undertake or pay for critical home maintenance without assistance. This service provides safety-related information, referrals and subsidised assistance. Your local Home Assist Secure service can provide information about – home maintenance – repairs – minor modifications – safety and security upgrades – other assistance that the Queensland Government provides. Staff can also help you to employ tradespeople to do repairs or modifications and plan future work. Eligibility criteria apply.
In Home Aged Care Services and Aged Care Homes
Phone: 1800 200 422
Website: myagedcare.gov.au
If you need help to enable you to stay living at home in your community, there are services that may be able to provide support. My Aged Care provides information about disability, aged care and other support services for people who are 65 years or older and their carers. If you are no longer able to live in your own home, aged care homes can provide quality care and services in a safe environment. There are varying levels of services offered in aged care homes. Some provide continual nursing care, while others provide mainly accommodation and personal care, with occasional nursing care. Some homes specialise in looking after people with specific needs, such as people with dementia. Some homes also provide palliative care for people who have a life-limiting illness to maintain the best possible quality of life. The first step to accessing federal government-funded aged care services is to call My Aged Care.
Queensland Retirement Village and Park Advice Service
Phone: (07) 3214 6333
Website: caxton.org.au
The Queensland Retirement Village and Park Advice Service is a free legal service for people who live, or wish to live, in a retirement village or manufactured home park. The service is part of the Caxton Legal Centre Inc, and was formerly called the Park and Village Information Link, or PAVIL. This service can help you – understand your rights and responsibilities under the Retirement Villages Act 1999 (Qld) and the Manufactured Homes (Residential Parks) Act 2003 (Qld) – get the knowledge and skills to present your interests to village and park operators, and resolve disputes – get access to appropriate legal information and advice.
Caxton Legal Centre
Phone: 07 3214 6333
Website: caxton.org.au
Caxton Legal Centre is an independent, non-profit community organisation providing free legal and social work advice, assistance and referral for people who are disadvantaged or on a low income. Their services are designed for people who cannot afford a solicitor, for people who just want initial advice, or for people who want a referral to a private solicitor.
Child Protection Information Kit
Website: qfcc.qld.gov.au
The South West Brisbane Community Legal Centre has developed an ‘Information Kit on Child Protection For Parents’. The kit provides parents with information about rights, investigation and case management processes, what to expect during court, how to make a complaint and where to find support. Whilst the service will do their best to keep the information in the kit up-to-date, it’s important to remember the law changes from time to time and you should seek legal advice about your particular situation.
Community Legal Centres Queensland
Website: qails.org.au
Community Legal Centres Queensland provides support and advocacy for 34 independent, community legal centres operating across Queensland. Queensland’s community legal centres provide free information, legal assistance and referral, representation and casework, community education and advocacy for vulnerable clients and communities facing legal problems.
Legal Aid – Grandparent Factsheet
Phone: 1300 65 11 88 Website: egalaid.qld.gov.au
Are you a grandparent who is raising a grandchild? Do you look after a grandchild for long periods of time? Are you thinking about doing this? If so, this factsheet has been written for you. This factsheet is not for people who do regular babysitting, for example, caring for a grandchild while the parents are working or studying. The information in this factsheet may also apply to other extended family members who may have a child relative in their care, for example, aunts, uncles or cousins.
Queensland Law Society
Website: qls.com.au
Need to find a solicitor? Queensland Law Society has a referral list of solicitors and firms who have advised that they practise in certain areas of law. Searching this list is the best option if you are looking for a solicitor or firm in a certain location who can help you in a particular area of law.
The Public Trustee
Phone: 1300 360 044
Website: pt.qld.gov.au
The Public Trustee offer a free will-making service to all Queenslanders over the age of 18. The process is quick and easy, using a specifically designed will-making system to ensure your will caters to your needs. An enduring power of attorney allows you to give your attorney (a person you select) the power to make financial decisions–and personal or health decisions–if you lose the capacity to make decisions for yourself. An enduring power of attorney allows you to plan for the unexpected, such as an accident or physical or other illness. You can make an enduring power of attorney at your local Public Trustee office.
Family Relationship Advice Line
Phone: 1800 050 321
Website: familyrelationships.gov.au
The Family Relationship Advice Line is a national telephone service established to assist families affected by relationship or separation issues. The Advice Line provides information on family relationship issues and advice on parenting arrangements after separation. It can also refer callers to local services that can provide assistance. The Advice Line complements the information and services offered by the new Family Relationship Centres. It ensures that people who are not able to attend a Centre can be helped. The Family Relationship Advice Line 1800 050 321 is available from 8 am to 8 pm, Monday to Friday, and 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday (local time), except national public holidays. What can you expect to Recieve? The Family Relationship Advice Line will be available to provide you with: Information about services to help people maintain healthy relationships. Information about the family law system. Advice on family separation issues. Guidance on developing workable parenting arrangements after family separation. Advice about the impact of conflict on children. Referral to Family Relationship Centres and other dispute resolution services. Organisation of telephone dispute resolution for people unable to attend a family dispute resolution service. Referral to a range of other services to help with family relationship and family separation issues.
Neighbourhood and Community Centres
Website: qld.gov.au
There are more than 125 neighbourhood and community centres which provide friendly, localised access to individual, family and community services. There are centres in rural, remote and urban communities throughout Queensland. The centres provide services to a wide cross-section of the community, including people who are marginalised or have significant needs. Community Connect services support vulnerable individuals and families with complex needs. The services can connect you to social programs and support services, including counselling, parenting help, financial literacy or crisis supports. Community Connect services are available in 12 high demand neighbourhood and community centres: Bowen – Chinchilla – Darra – Eagleby – Emerald – Gympie – Laidley – Manoora-Mooroobool – Monto – Mossman – Nerang – Upper Ross (Rasmussen).
Council Libraries
Queensland Museum Network at Home
Website: network.qm.qld.gov.au
The Queensland Museum Network is calling all #CouchCurators to join them on a journey to explore, discover and connect with them online. Their collection is still accessible and at your fingertips, along with learning resources, engaging video content, online tours and more on the Queensland Museum Network website.
Playgroup at Home Queensland
Website: facebook.com
Administered by Playgroup Queensland, this private Playgroup Queensland Facebook group is designed to keep families, carers and educators sharing and connecting – virtually – during this time of social isolation. It is a safe space where you will find activity ideas, tips for engaging with your children at home, story time, music time, nutritious recipe ideas and more.
Melbourne Museum at Home
Website: museumsvictoria.com.au
Take a virtual tour of Melbourne Museum, become a little scientist from the comfort of your own home, or delve deeper into Victoria’s immigration history with Museum Victoria’s Museum at Home.
SEA LIFE Melbourne
Website: melbourneaquarium.com.au
Learn all about marine life and some of the beautiful underwater creatures at SEA LIFE Melbourne with their live streams.
Taronga Zoo
Website: taronga.org.au
Taronga Zoo is bringing the zoo directly into your living room! Tune in daily to see your favourite animals, meet their keepers and learn what goes on behind the scenes at Taronga TV.
Sydney Opera House
Website: sydneyoperahouse.com
Enjoy the Sydney Opera House from home with weekly live recordings, never-before-seen footage, podcasts, articles, videos and more on their new digital program.
Melbourne Symphony Orchestra
Website: youtube.com
The MSO is livestreaming some their performances on YouTube. Head to their YouTube channel to enjoy the music.
Zoos Victoria
Website: zoo.org.au
Zoos Victoria has set up live stream cameras from Melbourne Zoo and Werribee Open Range Zoo, so that you can enjoy the zoo from anywhere. View the Animal House stream’s on the Zoos Victoria website.
National Gallery of Victoria
Website: ngv.vic.gov.au
The NGV has a number of virtual tours available online so that you can view the artworks they currently have on display. Find the virtual tours on the NGV website.
The Smithsonian
Website: naturalhistory.si.edu
Take a self-guided tour of the National Museum of Natural History with their guided tours.
The Louvre
Website: louvre.fr
With a range of online tours, you can visit the museum’s exhibition rooms and galleries without leaving the comfort of your own home.
Yosemite National Park
Website: nps.gov
Go on a virtual tour of California’s Yosemite National Park, one of America’s most popular natural environments.
The Guggenheim
Website: guggenheim.org
Search through an online database of selected artworks from the Guggenheim’s permanent collection.
The Tate
Website: tate.org.uk
Each of the Tate’s four galleries (the Britain and Modern in London, Tate Liverpool and Tate St Ives) has a series of children’s resources, videos, podcasts and online classes available.
The Museum of Modern Art (MOMA)
Website: moma.org
You can enjoy exhibition tours and learn about artworks via videos, Q&A’s with curators, playlist and articles in MoMA’s Virtual Views series.
Kidspot
Website: kidspot.com.au
A website that has a wealth of information about parenting and family wellbeing.
Resources for Caregivers
Website: qld.gov.au
Raising a child is not always easy but there are resources that can help you meet some of the challenges. This page is a guide to websites, books and DVDs that may answer some of your parenting questions.
Raising Children Network
Website: raisingchildren.net.au
This Australian Parenting website provides free, reliable, up-to-date and independent information to help your family grow and thrive together. It is funded by the Australian Government, is reviewed by experts and is non-commercial. Designed for busy families and full of tips and tricks for you to try, their content is easy to find and easy to digest. They have the answers to hundreds of parenting questions, where and when you need them. Their articles, videos and interactive resources are tailored to different ages and stages, taking you from nurturing a newborn to raising a confident, resilient teen – and helping you to look after yourself as a caregiver too.
Parentline
Phone: 1300 30 1300
Website: parentline.com.au
Parentline is a confidential telephone counselling service aimed at providing professional counselling and support for parents and all who have the care of children. Parenting is the most important task in our community. Often it is a puzzling and difficult task. Sometimes, it just seems too hard. At those times, you need someone experienced and trained to talk things over with and to get some guidance on ways to manage your children, and yourself, more effectively. Parentline supports and nurtures positive, caring relationships between parents, children, teenagers and the significant other people who are important to the well-being of families. Whatever the situation: a new addition to the family, concerns about children growing up, the pressures and responsibilities of parenting the need to find some time for themselves… or just the need to have someone listen to them for a change! Parentline is there for you.
Family and Child Connect
Phone: 13 32 64
Website: familychildconnect.org.au
Family and Child Connect can help with a range of family and parenting challenges. They’ll talk with you about your situation and work out the type of support you might find helpful and can connect you to local services that can help with: managing your child’s behaviour (e.g. skipping school, running away from home, homework, tantrums) – building better family relationships – stopping any violence at home – budgeting and managing money – alcohol, drug or gambling problems – housing, health care or access to other community or government services. You can use this service as often as you need. There is no limit and no cost. Every family is different so when you speak with us you will get advice and support specific to your situation. When you contact Family and Child Connect you’ll speak with an experienced family support worker who will listen to your concerns and undertake a full assessment of your family’s situation. They may be able to help you in just one phone call – either by providing advice or referring you to a support service – or they might arrange to visit you at home or a safe place to talk. You can also work with a domestic violence support worker. In some areas, there are family support services run by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations. Most family support services can offer families the choice of working with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander family support worker.
Triple P – Positive Parenting Program
Website: triplep-parenting.net.au
It’s not only children and teenagers who benefit from positive parenting. It also makes family life more enjoyable, easier and more rewarding for parents. More and more parents understand that it’s okay to ask for help and, in Queensland, positive parenting support to suit every family is free for any parent or carer of a child up to 16 years old. Triple P makes it easier to manage the common day-to-day challenges of parenting by offering practical skills and tools to help parents: develop positive relationships so you can get along well with your kids and argue less – effectively set family routines and rules that work – manage problem behaviour and support positive behaviour – raise well-adjusted, emotionally resilient children – balance work and family with less stress – create a happier, safer, more supportive family so you can be the parent you want to be. Triple P offers a range of seminars, group workshops and one-on-one consultations delivered as either: one-off sessions – part of a series over several weeks or months, or Triple P Online, a self-paced online course. You can choose as much or as little help as you like – depending on your individual preferences and situation – and you choose which strategies you’d like to try at home.
Carer Gateway
Phone: 1800 422 737
Website: carergateway.gov.au
Carer Gateway is a national online and phone service that provides practical information and resources to support carers. The interactive service finder helps carers connect to local support services.
Wellways Australia
Phone: 1800 422 737
Website: wellways.org
Wellways Australia provides a range of Carer Gateway Support Services for carers including face to face counselling, planning assistance and financial packages.
Carers Queensland
Phone: 07 3900 8100
Website: carersqld.com.au
Carers Queensland is the peak body representing and advocating on behalf of carers throughout Queensland.
Arafmi Queensland
Phone: 1300 554 660
Website: arafmi.com.au
Arafmi Queensland supports those who care for, or about, someone with a mental illness. It offers 24 hour phone support, counselling, family respite, support group meetings and workshops for carers. 24hr Regional Queensland phone support on 1800 35 1881 (free call from landline).
Commonwealth Home Support Program
Phone: 1800 200 422
Website: myagedcare.gov.au
The Commonwealth Home Support Program helps senior Australians access entry-level support services to live independently and safely at home. It works with you to maintain your independence rather than doing things for you. For more information phone My Aged Care.
Queensland Community Care
Phone: 1800 600 300
Website: qld.gov.au
Queensland Community Care can help people with disability under 65 years of age (and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people under 50 years of age) with services provided in the community and in your home. Phone Community Access Point.
Activities for kids
There are many indoor and outdoor recreational, sports and fun activities for grandchildren. In some cases, Time for Grandparents may be able to assist with funding for your grandchildren to participate.
Enquire now
Need more information? Please call our Grandparents Information Line/Seniors Enquiry Line on 1300 135 500 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday, and ask for Time for Grandparents; or fill out the enquiry form below.
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