The Mobile Service Centre Desert Rose is returning to southern New South Wales to provide locals in Tumbarumba and Batlow still recovering from the summer bushfires and drought, with easy access to essential government services.
Staff on board have delivered Centrelink, Medicare and Child Support services to almost 160,000 customers since 2006.
Desert Rose is one of two 20 tonne trucks run by Services Australia that have travelled over 900,000 kilometres and been to more than 5,000 communities.
Minister for Government Services Stuart Robert said Desert Rose provides tailored support and information to people in rural communities.
‘Mobile Service Centres reinforce the Australian Government’s commitment to delivering the best services to all Australians, regardless of where they live,’ Minister Robert said.
‘These trucks are purpose-built to replicate a service centre, complete with the latest technology.
‘During the Black Summer bushfires that devastated parts of this region, our Mobile Service Centre staff were on the ground to deliver critical support to people living in isolated bushfire-affected communities.
‘Visiting this region again will ensure communities can continue to access the services they need, in what has been a very difficult year for many Australians.’
Senator for New South Wales Jim Molan said Desert Rose will be welcomed by locals still reeling from the recent drought and bushfires, as it travels through the region over the coming weeks.
‘Mobile Service Centres are a great opportunity for people in our community to meet face-to-face with staff if they require more personalised or intensive support,’ Senator Molan said.
‘Staff on board Desert Rose can help locals with Centrelink claims, Medicare registrations and online services.
‘You can still do most of your Centrelink and all of your Medicare business online, and staff can support locals to make sure they’re confident in completing their business online.
‘You don’t need an appointment, and it’s free – so anyone who needs help or has a question should visit the team aboard Desert Rose.
‘All services will be offered with strict COVID-19 safety precautions in place.’
Mobile Service Centre locations:
| Tumbarumba, NSW | Tuesday 15 and Wednesday 16 September | 9 am to 4 pm | Behind the IGA, Hammond Street
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| Batlow, NSW | Thursday 17 and Friday 18 September | 9 am to 4 pm | Next to the library, Pioneer Street
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For more information about the Mobile Service Centres and the upcoming stopping locations, visit servicesaustralia.gov.au/mobileoffice