Outreach takes time, travel and persistence. There’s no substitute for sitting with someone, hearing what happened, and helping them get what they were entitled to all along. The evidence is there. The need is there. The model works. That’s why the NSW Gov's decision not to fund us is disappointing.

As part of our commitment to improving access to Centrelink for First Nations people, WRC strengthened relationships and expanded our reach to First Nations communities across NSW resulting in 19% of our total services supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients.

Many older Australians rely on Centrelink to make ends meet—but understanding the rules can be complicated. Join WRC for a free online training session exploring Centrelink payments and services available to older Australians. Register now: buff.ly/tFLdVOa

We delivered over 20 free training sessions to 2000+ community workers across NSW. Those who complete training support an average of 8 clients per month with Centrelink issues and has the potential to assist tens of thousands of people in need.

In 2025–26, WRC secured a financial benefit of $2.37 million for people across NSW. • $477,911 in Centrelink debts waived • $467,155 in back payments (arrears) secured • $1.43 million in ongoing annual income support payments people were entitled to receive That's an impact we're proud of.

The rates of people living without a home are rising, we have been seeing steady increases in the number of people who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness needing our help. Access to the right social security payment can help people keep a roof over their head. Take action: buff.ly/OZIp8Sk

Welfare Rights Centre intake line is closed today, Monday 3 August, and reopens on Wednesday 5 August from 9:30am - 12:30pm. We apologise for any inconvenience. We are currently at capacity and have no available appointments. For urgent issues please contact Law Access 1300 888 529.

Centrelink debt notices can be upsetting and confusing. For some, accessing their entitlements or challenging a debt is not straightforward. Demand for social security legal help continues to grow. Timely and sustainable funding is needed to ensure we are there to help those in need

Retiree plunged into panic by surprise $22,000 Centrelink bill

How to fight back against a government debt.

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At this time each year, we take a moment to look back and assess our impact. It’s a busy time but it’s always rewarding to see the ripple effect of the work we do. It reminds us how much can be achieved by a dedicated team who believe in a fair and accessible social security system.

Happy Friday! Today we welcomed visitors from Basic Rights Queensland, who dropped by to catch up with their NSW counterparts here in Surry Hills. Here's a snap of @Sam Director of Legal Practice and our Principal solicitor Donna Flood. It's always a pleasure to connect with colleagues.

Meet Natasha, one of our client intake volunteers, who is currently studying a double degree in Business (Accounting) and Law at UTS. By helping connect people with information, advice and support, Natasha contributes to making services more accessible to those who need them!

Today we’re introducing Mini, who volunteers with WRC while studying law at the University of Sydney. Mini is interested in understanding the barriers that can make the legal system difficult to access for many people. We’re grateful for the time, care and commitment Mini brings to the team!

Happy NAIDOC Week! This year is special as we celebrate 50 years of honouring the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. To find out more about how you can celebrate and mark 50 YEARS OF DEADLY visit the NAIDOC website. buff.ly/gY2hKKE

Meet Darcy, a Graduate Lawyer at HWL Ebsworth Lawyers who volunteers with WRC through pro bono work. His support helps WRC continue to provide high-quality assistance to clients across NSW, and his work makes a real difference to the people who turn to us for help.

Welcome Donna Flood our new Principal Solicitor. Donna has been part of the WRC team for 9 years and is a highly respected social security lawyer with extensive experience supporting clients and advocating for systemic reform. We look forward to Donna leading our legal practice into its next chapter

When you donate to us, you are helping a NSW resident receive free legal advice to access financial support that they are entitled to and desperately need. We have been protecting people's right to social security for 40 years. Your support will ensure we can continue. Donate here: buff.ly/kxQ3fBC

After decades working in Community Legal Centres, our Principal Solicitor Natalie Ross will retire next month, and we will miss her. We thank Natalie for her remarkable contribution we are deeply grateful for her leadership over the past seven years. Community Recognition Statement: buff.ly/lBWrqR8

Social Security Rights for Refugees! We've been advocating for refugee families for many years and have helped ensure that Centrelink asks the right questions when family members of refugees apply to receive a Centrelink payment. Our next workshop is next week. buff.ly/w9d6vpe

Last week we ran a packed workshop to support Wentworth Shire community workers help clients and Community with Centrelink problems. Our Welfare Rights outreach team also delivered free legal services from CHAC. Thanks so much to our hosts, we loved the wide blue sky and being on Barkindji Country.

Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, when we voice opposition to the abuse, mistreatment and neglect of older people. This includes financial abuse; which is the theft or misuse of an older person’s money, property, or assets. If you have Centrelink debt due to financial abuse contact us.

The 30th June is the deadline for last year's Family Tax Benefit 2024-25. If Centrelink can’t confirm your family’s income by 30 June - you will miss out, or you may have to repay any Family Tax Benefit you received, even if you were eligible! Call Centrelink’s Families line on 136 150 or use MyGov

Centrelink is complex — and community workers are often the first people clients turn to for help. That’s why we run free training sessions, backed by practical resources that workers can use straight away. We’re proud our training plays a role in making the system more accessible.

Join our team. Welfare Rights Centre NSW is recruiting for a Solicitor/Caseworker or a Senior Solicitor/Caseworker to join our specialist social security law practice. buff.ly/TneCEsU

Welfare Rights Centre will be closed today, Monday 8th June, for the public holiday. If you are in NSW and have a problem with Centrelink, please complete our online form and a team member will be in touch shortly. buff.ly/AiJseIP We hope you have a great long weekend!

Our team is heading to Dareton next week to connect with Community and join with our CEO Katherine Boyle on Barkindji Country to deliver a practical workshop. If you're a community worker supporting clients that may need help with Centrelink please join us. Register online: buff.ly/LG2RusD

Today we mark Mabo Day, honouring the life and legacy of Eddie Koiki Mabo, whose determination helped reshape Australian law and history. We remain committed to listening to First Nations voices, providing culturally safe support, and advocating for a fair social security system.

With our First Nations Access Program, and First Nations Access Officer working across community engagement and legal casework, we provide culturally safe support, information and resources to First Nations clients navigating the social security system. Visit our First Nations Hub: buff.ly/gBzKjYl

This National Reconciliation Week, we are All In for taking action to make change. At Welfare Rights Centre, we recognise that sovereignty was never ceded. We stand in solidarity with First Nations peoples and reaffirm our commitment to truth-telling, justice and treaty.

Today, 26 May, is National SORRY Day. We acknowledge the Stolen Generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who were forcibly removed from their families. We stand in solidarity with First Nations peoples and call on Centrelink to facilitate full, equitable access to its programs.

The high rate of initial DSP claim rejections underscores the importance of specialised legal support. By providing guidance and advocacy, WRC prevents prolonged financial hardship and strengthens access to entitlements for people with disability. See our online fact sheet here: buff.ly/jYOdMNI