Local Federal Member for Dunkley Bruce Billson is delivering on a key election commitment to reinstate a dedicated Seniors and Carers counter as part of the new Medicare and Centrelink one-stop shop to open in Frankston later this month.

Mr Billson said the Coalition committed to restoring the Seniors and Carers ground floor counter after the previous Labor Government surprisingly closed it, making it very difficult for some clients who had to climb several stairs and wait in long queues to carry out transactions.

“I’m pleased to announce work will start later this month on a one-stop shop for government services in Frankston, which will deliver Centrelink and Medicare services across two floors,” Mr Billson said.

“As part of the new one-stop shop, we are re-establishing the dedicated area that was so successful and supported by older Australians and carers.

“Work will start soon to move all staff and services from the current Medicare site in Bayside Shopping Centre into the current Centrelink site at the corner of Davey and Young Streets.

“The ground floor will cater exclusively for seniors and carers, with services for all other customers available on the first floor.

“By having the Centrelink and Medicare services in one location, people can combine what may have been separate trips to these Commonwealth agencies into a single visit.”

Minister for Human Services Senator the Hon Marise Payne said bringing Medicare and Centrelink together will provide Frankston residents with easier access to more government services under one roof.

“The one-stop shops are a great example of changes being made by the Australian Government to improve the delivery of services to Australians,” Ms Payne said.

“Frankston will join more than 120 Australian communities who have access to our one-stop shops where Medicare and Centrelink services are offered under one roof.

“Friendly staff can show customers how to use these facilities, including signing up to myGov
https://my.gov.au which allows people to access their Centrelink, Medicare and Child Support
information as well as their eHealth records using one login and password.

“While these technologies are making business much more convenient, staff will always be available to provide a face-to-face service to those who require more personalised or intensive support.”

Work is expected to start and be completed by the end of the month.