Women and Debt
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Struggling with Pregnancy and Finances
CALLER:
Hello, look I am really scared at the moment because I am pregnant and don.t know how I will cope with my rent when the baby arrives. I.m on my own.
WIRE:
Being on your own doesn.t mean you are alone. There are many people who can help you in this exciting and challenging time. You do not say if you are working at the moment. If you are not, Centrelink can give you details of what financial help you can receive from the Federal Government. For instance, you can receive up to $100 per fortnight rent assistance if you are renting privately and on a low income. You can receive government benefits now and when the baby comes will receive a Maternity Allowance of $780 which will help buy essential things for the baby. Then you will probably be eligible for a fortnightly allowance of up to $394 per fortnight plus $116 to help with your child. Make an appointment with your local Centrelink (and find out where it is) by ringing 13 10 21 for the cost of a local call. If you have access to the Internet at home or at the local library, look up their website at www.centrelink.gov.au.
While you are waiting for your baby to arrive, check out the birthing classes at your local hospital or community health centre. After your baby comes, there are lots of people who can help you. Your local Maternal and Child Health service will have staff who can help you know how to care for the baby and will introduce you to young mother and baby playgroups where you can make new friends. Ring the local Council for further information.
And of course, if you are working now and have been there a year or more, you have the right to come back to that same job up to a year after the baby is born. This will mean finding out about childcare in your area . your local council can help you with information.You might also like to ring the Council of Single Mothers and their Children on 03 9654 0622 . they have many years experience helping young mothers. You have begun to embrace the major changes in your life. Don't hesitate to give WIRE a call if you need any further information and support - we're only a phone call away.
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