BATHURST’S migrant support services have taken an $80,000 hit after The Neighbourhood Centre was told its federal funding had been cut.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
A report to Bathurst Regional Council by cultural and community services director Alan Cattermole said the funding cut would also result in the loss of one employee whose job it was to respond to migrant issues in Bathurst.
Mr Cattermole has asked council to write to Calare MP Andrew Gee expressing concern and to “seek advice on alternative funding sources to reinstate the services as a matter of urgency”.
“This is a frontline direct service position providing practical support to people often in desperate and urgent need of assistance,” Mr Cattermole states in the report.
“… It is acknowledged that the overall numbers of individual services throughout the Central West are small, particularly in comparison to metropolitan areas. However, individuals in regional areas will be further disproportionately impacted by the lack of adequate services.”
Mr Cattermole said that under the changes, funding would continue for an Orange City Council (OCC) migrant support worker but at a reduced level.
“In addition to a reduction in funds to OCC, the catchment of this service has nearly doubled in geographic area, and now includes Bathurst,” the report states.
“Orange City Council have expressed, to Department of Social Services (DSS), the difficulties with this situation and that it was not their preferred option.
“Orange City Council Migrant Support Service will be able to provide minimal service for the Bathurst local migrant and refugee community members.”
Councillors will consider the report at Wednesday night’s monthly meeting.
