This directory provides an overview of low cost and free meal services in the Illawarra region. It is
updated regularly.
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Food Fairness Illawarra Low Cost and Free Meals Directory
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Cessnock Region – Local Food Services
Cessnock City Council has listed local food services on their website.
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NSW Low Income Household Rebate (Retail Customers)
The NSW Low Income Household Rebate provides $285 per financial year to eligible concession cardholders to help pay electricity bills. You will also autonmatically receive a one-off National Energy Bill Relief Payment of up to $500 for the financial year.
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Wesley Mission Financial Counselling Services
Wesley Mission Financial Counselling services provide free, independent, and confidential counselling to those experiencing financial difficulty. The counsellors work with you help put together a budget, help you understand the options you have to address your financial situation, and advocate or negotiate on your behalf.
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Financial Counselling via The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army’s free Moneycare financial counselling service has professional counsellors who
provide personalised advice on how to get through your money problems and avoid trouble in the
future. The service is free and confidential. -
Fimer Foundations
Firmer Foundations is a free coaching program, with interpreters available, for all women who want better financial wellbeing. Financial capability coaching provides a non-judgmental, confidential space to explore your goals around money, and we draw on your strengths and value your choices.
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Energy Accounts Payment Assistance (EAPA) Vouchers
If you’re having difficulty paying your household energy bill due to a short-term financial crisis, you may qualify for Energy Accounts Payment Assistance (EAPA) $50 vouchers. These vouchers, sent electronically to your energy retailer, can help cover your electricity or gas bill, and involve an eligibility assessment by a NSW government representative or an approved non-government EAPA provider.
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Fuel Check Online Tool
The FuelCheck online tool can help you find the cheapest fuel at NSW service stations near you. You can use FuelCheck online or via the app.
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NSW Gas Rebate (Retail Customers)
The NSW Gas Rehabte provides $110 per financial year to eligible concession cardholders to help pay their natural gas or bottled LPG bills. To qualify, you must live in NSW, be the account holder for your household gas account, and hold a valid concession card (e.g. Pensioner Card, Health Care Card, or DVA Card).
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School Student Broadband Initiative (SSBI)
This government scheme allows eligible families with no internet at home a free National Broadband Network service. You can check your eligibility via their website.