By Oliver Lees
Hume council will look at establishing a financial hardship policy after a statewide investigation found it was one of only two council areas in the state not have a policy in place.
The Victorian Ombudsman report, released in May, identified a need for stronger laws and improved services across the state as one in 10 Victorians face some form of financial hardship.
Speaking at a council meeting last week, Cr Carly Moore said it was time the council prepared a report to potentially adopt a hardship policy.
“It is incredibly important that we do have a formal policy in regards to our support of residents experiencing hardship,” Cr Moore said.
Cr Jim Overend said the issue was timely.
“Considering, you know, what we’ve been going through in the last year with this pandemic, I think it’s more and more important to have this implemented,” he said.
“It’s sad to see that we’re only one of two that hasn’t implemented such a system.”
Mayor Joseph Haweil said despite not having an established hardship policy it was important to note that Hume council has continued to provide financial assistance to those experiencing hardship through other means such as support packages.
For more information on Hume council’s financial support, visit: www.hume.vic.gov.au/Residents/Rates/COVID-19-financial-hardship-support
