MIDLAS Finacial Counsellor Justine (left) and Volunteer, Rose (right).

The Midland Information, Debt & Legal Advocacy Service Inc (MIDLAS) have a number of amazing volunteers and we would like to thank them for their outstanding contribution to the organisation.

14 – 20 May is National Volunteer Week, which gives the community a chance to recognize the important role of volunteers. On average, people in Western Australia volunteer 157 hours of their time each year in community organisations, service activities, sporting clubs and a huge range of other activities each year (Department of Communities, 2009). That is a lot of volunteering! At Midlas, our volunteers assist in a range of areas including social media, research and board membership.

Julia Burch, the Executive Officer of Midlas, thanked the volunteers for their support; “Volunteers play such a vital role in our organisation and we rely on their assistance to deliver our services to the community.”

“Our volunteers come from a range of professional backgrounds and all bring something unique to MIDLAS. This creates an exciting environment for new and different ideas and services to develop.”

We are always looking for volunteers who are passionate about empowering disadvantaged and vulnerable people within our community. Volunteering is an excellent way to build new skills, use your existing knowledge, meet new people and give something back to the community. We have positions available in a range of areas, both within and outside of business hours and would love to hear from you.

For more information on volunteering please contact us via our website (www.midlas.org.au); Facebook (www.facebook.com/MIDLASinc) or calling our staff on (08) 9250 2123.

Domestic violence is not only physical violence but also includes emotional abuse, financial abuse, sexual abuse and excessive control. Domestic violence can occur between intimate partners, including same-sex partners, siblings, carers and patients and children and parents.

Domestic violence is an ever increasing issue in our community and affects people from all walks of life across Western Australia. Often at times it is hard to recognize domestic violence and to know what can be done about it.

May 14-19 is Law Week in Western Australia. The Midland Information, Debt & Legal Advocacy Service Inc (MIDLAS) are encouraging people to access our free, confidential domestic violence service.  We understand that domestic violence can be confusing and sometimes it is hard to know if what you are experiencing is domestic violence and what help is available.

MIDLAS’ Senior Solicitor, Helen Lawrence is urging people to seek help if they suspect they are experiencing domestic violence.  “In society, domestic violence is often thought of only as physical violence between male and female spouses or de factos and this creates problems for people who experience a different form of domestic violence as they feel unsure about whether it is domestic violence and whether they can seek help.”

At MIDLAS we provide free services and confidential information to people who are experiencing domestic violence – in any form. If you are experiencing emotional, financial, physical or any other form of violence from your partner or family member, please contact MIDLAS on 9250 2123 or leave a message for us on our website: www.midlas.org.au. We can also be contacted via our social media platforms; Facebook (MIDLASinc) & Twitter (@MIDLAS1).

Our dedicated and professional legal team are available to talk about your circumstances. We can also provide you with options, referrals and support to help navigate the barriers and achieve a better way of life.

Many government and not for profit (NFP) organisations have 13/1800 numbers to provide valuable services to our communities.  13/1800 numbers provide life saving information and assistance to people in real crisis’ and need. People think of 13/1800 phone numbers as being free to access. They are far from free, especially when called from a mobile phone. Many mobile phone plans with ‘free calls’ exclude 13/1800 numbers. Generally people are unaware that 13/1800 numbers in Australia attract a substantially higher fee from mobile phones in comparison to fees originating from land lines.

The Australian Communications & Media Authority (ACMA) estimates that the number of fixed-line telephone services in operation has declined dramatically over the past 5 years. (http://bit.ly/JDYaP8 ). The majority of MIDLAS clients use mobile phones.

Midland Information, Debt & Legal Advocacy Service Inc (MIDLAS) has been a participant in the movement to amend the legislation to remove this high fee from mobiles.  MIDLAS has partnered with other NFP’s throughout Australia to lobby telecommunication companies and the Federal Government.

ACMA as of the 24th of April 2012, has committed to amend the relevant legislation and have the industry implement these changes from 2015. Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) released a statement congratulating ACMA for addressing these important issues stating; “Due to the complex nature of numbering arrangements, these reforms will take time. But what’s important is that we have this commitment so we can work together with the ACMA and industry to make them happen.”

For more information about changes to 13/1800 number charges, follow this link: http://bit.ly/JKJYBS

MIDLAS provides 6 free service to vulnerable and disadvantaged members throughout the North East of Perth with confidential; information, options, referral and support. To find out more about MIDLAS Services, please visit our website: www.midlas.org.au or visit us on our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/MIDLASinc

Domestic violence is a prevalent issue in today’s society that is affecting more and more Australian’s as each day passes.  Domestic violence is defined as; an  individual who experiences violence at the hands of someone with whom they are related to, or in a relationship with, and are considered to be in a “family and domestic relationship” with that person.

Acts of abuse are not exclusively violence related, but also engross; financial, sexual, emotional and psychological abuse.  While most people associate domestic violence with a physical act, the scope of the crime is much broader.  Family and domestic violence means any form of physical, sexual or psychological abuse, either by force or threats, which takes place within an emotional relationship.  Domestic violence is considered to be behaviour which results in physical, sexual and/or psychological damage, forced isolation, economic deprivation, or other behaviour which causes the victim to live in fear (Domestic Violence and the Law 3^rd ed.).

Last night, the Australian Rugby League (ARL) suspended two players after they were both found guilty of causing harm to their female partners. (http://bit.ly/HrLkz5 ). In a statement released today 12^th April 2012, David Gallop (ARL Chief Executive) commented that this sent a clear message that Domestic violence will not be tolerated.

This blog is not simply to commend the actions of the ARL, but to highlight the prevalence of domestic violence through all facets of Australian society.  Helen Lawrence (Senior Solicitor) Midland Information, Debt & Legal Advocacy Service Inc (MIDLAS) believes; “These high profile cases assist in educating the community that this behaviour will not be tolerated and that serious consequences flow from criminal behaviour.”

It is so important that as a community we begin to acknowledge the effects Domestic Violence has on individuals and families.  The longer we keep this issue in the dark, the hardier it remains for victims to seek help and escape from their situations.

If you are experiencing any form of violence from your partner or family member, please contact MIDLAS on 9250 2123 or leave a message for us on our website: www.midlas.org.au Our dedicated and professional legal team are available to speak to about your circumstances. 

Is Social Media just a fad? Is it the way of communication for the future?  Can we claim that the presence of innovative online communication will bring about an end to poverty for West Australians?  MIDLAS is creating a collaborative network of not for profit organisations to share information as an online community to push the boundaries of this new frontier.

Midland Information Debt & Legal Advocacy Service Inc (MIDLAS) is a Community Legal Centre located in Midland providing free professional services to empower disadvantaged and vulnerable members of the north east of Perth so they can improve their lives.  MIDLAS  is engaging our community through social media, providing up to date and relevant information and options to current and potential clients through our website and social media platforms.

Social media is an extremely effective way to communicate.  As print media communicates to their readership via physical newspapers and articles, social media is the vehicle now used for people to virtually communicate with each other.  For community based organisations social media provides an opportunity to connect with other organisations, networks, and most importantly with clients. The online platform shares information, content, current trends and education tools.

MIDLAS currently engages with a number of social media platforms. Each platform focuses on unique information sharing and when seamlessly integrated through the website a distinctive experience is created.

The array of MIDLAS social media platforms can be viewed by following the links below or typing the word MIDLAS into any search engine.

www.midlas.org.au

www.facebook.com.au/MIDLASinc

www.twitter.com/MIDLAS1

www.youtube.com/MIDLASmedia

www.midlas.posterous.com

www.midlas.tumblr.com

MIDLAS is committed to providing up to date, relevant information and resources to empower disadvantaged and vulnerable people within the north east of Perth to achieve a better way of life.  Please visit our website to find out more information about MIDLAS Social Media.  www.midlas.org.au

Overall, this is good news for Australian workers and job seekers. It means that more people are finding and retaining their jobs. However, a stronger sense of job security can have unpredictable outcomes for people in the future. For example, some people may take out personal loans and enter into contracts for which they will require a steady income to maintain.

MIDLAS (Midland Information, Debt & Legal Advocacy Service Inc) Financial Counselors see a diverse range of clients who have taken out personal loans, credit cards, mortgages and other forms of credit, based upon their current income sources. If there is a change in income for any reason, including loss of employment, then a person may be bound by contracts that they can no longer afford.  MIDLAS Financial Counselors can assist people with issues in relation to loss of income and when people are unable to sustain repayments to a loan that they have taken out.

Sustainability and gaining employment is impacted largely by the cost of living. The high cost of living in Perth can increase the impact and role unemployment plays on a person’s financial situation.

The rise in the cost of bread is often used in such comparisons. However the West Australian http://bit.ly/zqOYzH highlights the dramatic increase in staples such as “food, clothing, rent, transport, utility bills and recreational costs.” When a person experiences a sudden loss of income it can be extremely difficult to manage even basic living for both individuals and families.  Unemployment benefits may assist in a short term situation, however basic Government pensions/allowances are unable to cover all living expenses comfortably. MIDLAS Financial Counselors can advocate for people who are experiencing this kind of financial stress, and who may not be aware of their rights and responsibilities. Hardship Utility Grants (HUGS) can also provide financial assistance for clients who are having difficulty paying their utility bills.

To find out more about the MIDLAS service or to book an appointment, call (08)9250 2123 or leave a message on our website: www.midlas.org.au/contacts

The Federal Government has announced new reform to the current Disability Support Pensions (DSP) participation requirements. These new reforms will allow an individual on the DSP to work up to 30 hours a week without their pension being suspended or cancelled. This will be double the amount of hours under the current limitations.  This new reform provides the opportunity for individuals to increase their hours of work throughout the week without it affecting many of the benefits of the DSP including the health care card.

The Herald Sun today reported; “The Government estimates it will encourage 4000 more people to start work and about 3900 more to increase their hours…” The minimum of 8 hours a week of work remains for recipients under the age of 35 to receive the DSP.

The ‘extra hours’ reform inevitably acknowledges the growth and the need to work for people who identify has having a disability.  However, the question regarding support and flexibility must now be considered. What further training and education is needed? What support is being offered to the employer?   How flexible is this system?

Sneska Ilikj believes, “It’s not just simply assisting individuals to acquire a job, giving them a uniform and then a check list – they need to be supported so that this process is sustainable and also enjoyable. Employers also need support to do this in an efficient and professional way as without this support the incentives to hire individuals with a disability would be more negative than positive (Disability Advocate- MIDLAS).” 

The MIDLAS Disability Advocacy Service offers assistance to individuals who are seeking to either re-enter or gain additional employment. . If you are seeking more information or assistance, please call us on (08)9250 2123 or leave a message on our website: www.midlas.org.au

A recent report states that debt-related stress is widespread in Australia, particularly for young people between the ages of 25 to 34.

http://australia.creditcards.com/credit-card-news/many-Australians-dealing-with-debt-stress-1276.php

“Debt” can be defined as a state of owing money, and is a word that can strike fear into the hearts of most Australians.  Credit is easily obtainable, which can mean that getting into debt is much easier than getting out.  Whether debt is personal, business-related or as widespread as national debt, the effect on the individual can be phenomenal. The global financial crisis (GFC) had a huge and lasting effect on a large number of Australian people, who lost jobs, homes, superannuation and savings.

The recovery from the GFC was a long process of which many Australians are still suffering from. One lasting effect from the GFC is that we have become more aware of the extreme impacts that debt can have on individuals and families. As a result, many people experience an overwhelming feeling of panic related to being in debt, and yet have not developed the skills to best deal with creditors and financial institutions. Payday lending, characterized by small loans with huge interest rates, is also on the rise. This is a dangerous option for people already in debt, as the relief is temporary whilst the cost is large and prolonged.

An example of the stress related to debt can be drawn from a recent client of our service, who presented to MIDLAS after her husband’s death. She had been left with several debts including credit cards, a St John Ambulance bill and a Telstra debt. She had been experiencing severe anxiety related to her husband’s death and the pressure of having to manage their finances alone. As a result, the client had become emotionally unstable and demonstrated risks of self harm in the weeks before her appointment. A MIDLAS financial counselor worked with this client to obtain a waiver on the ambulance bill, a hardship variation on her credit card and a considerable reduction on the Telstra bill. This client needed the support and advocacy MIDLAS could provide and was able to build her confidence to take control of her financial situation. This is only one example of how debt-related stress was alleviated by talking to a financial counsellor and learning skills and exploring tools and options that are available.

MIDLAS offers Financial Counselling and can assist with the Hardship Utilities Grant Scheme (HUGs) applications to assist in the alleviation of debt-related stress. Financial counseling can provide you with options, information, referral  and advocacy on your behalf to successfully deal with creditors. HUGs appointments can result in a financial contribution that goes towards outstanding utility accounts.

The stress related to being in debt can be overwhelming and can start to impact other areas of your life. Act early. Be empowered. Contact MIDLAS for an appointment on 9250 2123 or leave a message on our website: www.midlas.org.au

For many years the issue of domestic violence has been a silent matter, kept in the dark and left unreported. While media outlets often report on violence throughout W.A, they rarely discuss ‘domestic violence’. As more and more brave victims speak up against their attackers, it becomes the role of the media to portray these criminal acts in a different light.

Over the weekend, Perth media reported on a man who was stabbed following a domestic dispute. Over the past month, readers have skimmed over a handful of similar reports. The questions remains, how can the media speak out against these violent acts, mainly against women and begin to represent the victim’s voice?

Recent figures suggest that 1 in 3 women have experienced domestic violence at some stage in their life and an alarming 5-10% of Australian women in 2010 became victims of violence perpetrated by their partner. The fact remains, if reporting on domestic violence remains in the dark and secret, victims will continue to hurt and never be completely supported.

The Midland Information, Debt & Legal Advocacy Service (MIDLAS) engages victims of domestic violence in a number of ways including court representation, VRO (Violence Restraining Order) application and support. Ben Bullock from MIDLAS believes “that the more domestic violence grows as a public discussion, the more we can do to end it. There is a lot of support for victims of domestic violence available in the community, though because the topic is often overlooked and avoided, individuals can find themselves unsure of who they can talk to and uncertain of where to go for assistance. The result is that incidents of violence are grossly unreported and victims continue to remain in a relationship of abuse.”

If you are experiencing or know someone who is a victim of domestic violence, please contact our Legal service on 9250 2123 or leave us a message on our website www.midlas.org.au

If you are in need of immediate assistance, please call the police on 000, alternatively you can contact lifeline on 13 11 14.

A report in the Australian this week discussed the Federal Government’s ‘Social Inclusion Unit’ that was established by the Gillard government in 2007. The vision of the Social Inclusion Unit was to develop  ‘…a socially inclusive society in which all Australians feel valued and have the opportunity to fully participate in the life of our society.’ Like me, you’re probably wondering: What is this unit? Where did it come from? What do they do? And most importantly; how are they actually planning to eradicate social exclusion and foster social inclusion?

In 2010 the unit published a report called  ‘Foundations for a Stronger, Fairer Australia,’ which detailed the extent of social exclusion in Australia. The reporter from the Australian considered whether this unit should continue to exist in its current state, be altered or abolished completely. The question remains; how effective has the Social Inclusion Unit been?

Social isolation and exclusion occurs in almost every facet of Australian life and does not discriminate between race, gender, income, family structure, employment, or sexual preference.  The fear of social exclusion can foster feelings of loneliness, depression, inability to cope, need to keep up appearances and the social demand to appear to have everything under control.

Thinking about your own situation, are you in fear of social exclusion affecting your life?  The spiral of social exclusion can impact on your ability to fully engage in all life has to offer. Do you feel you are at times alienated from society, friends, family, work etc?  Contact MIDLAS on 9250 2123 or leave a message for us at our website: www.midlas.org.au