Day for advice about utility bills

St Vincent de Paul and the Energy and Water Ombudsman NSW will be partnering with Coast Community Connections to hold a "Bring your bills" support day at the Peninsula Community Centre on July 25.

The free event will provide attendees with the opportunity to speak with representatives of the Ombudsman about problems with their electricity, gas or water accounts and learn tips to reduce their water and energy usage.

Coast Community Connections acting chief Ms Di Spragg said the event would be a great opportunity for locals to have their bills reviewed and receive direct advice from energy and water providers.

"Residents are invited to bring their bills in on the day to have them reviewed by experts and discuss any issues they may be having with their energy or water providers," Ms Spragg said.

"Energy and Water Ombusdman NSW staff will also ensure community members are receiving any energy rebates that they may be eligible for and will provide assistance on how to claim these allowances," she added.

Other services involved at this free event include St Vincent de Paul Society, NSW Fair Trading, State Debt Recovery Service, Ability Links, Centrelink and Legal Aid.

Attendees will be able to access information on welfare needs, budgeting, the No Interest Loans Scheme (NILS), legal issues and tenancies, as well as advice specifically relating to Centrelink payments, Centrepay and MyGov.

"There are so many free services available to the community and this event makes those services easily accessible to the public.

"Many people are unaware that they could be receiving significant rebates every year and this is a chance to learn more about these and other ways to budget or manage debt," Ms Spragg said.

There will also be information on what help is available for people with a disability, their carers and families.

Media release, 27 Jun 2016

Katey Small, Brilliant Logic PR