UPPER Hunter residents will soon have easier access to government services as the Golden Wattle mobile truck prepares to visit Scone and Murrurundi in the next week.
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Golden Wattle is one of two 20-tonne trucks run by the Department of Human Services staff who can assist with Centrelink, Medicare and Child Support enquiries.
The vehicle will stopover at Scone (near the shopping village on Kingdon Street) between 9am and 3pm on Thursday, August 15; and Murrurundi (near Wilson Memorial Park on Mayne Street) from 9.30am until 4pm on Tuesday, August 20.
"It is great to welcome this outreach service back to the New England electorate because not everyone is fortunate to have government services on their doorstep," New England MP Barnaby Joyce said.
"This gives people living in rural communities, who are often isolated from bricks and mortar offices, the chance to speak to someone face-to-face about their situation.
"The drought has made it tough for families in our region.
"So, I encourage them to jump on board Golden Wattle while it's in town and find out what support is available to them."
The Golden Wattle trucks have travelled in excess of 900,000 kilometres to provide services to more than 4,900 communities and almost 150,000 customers since 2006.
Minister for Government Services Stuart Robert said Golden Wattle provided tailored support and information to people in rural communities.
"Mobile Service Centres reinforce the Australian Government's commitment to delivering the best services to all Australians, regardless of where they live," he explained.
"These trucks are purpose-built to replicate a service centre, complete with the latest technology."
Staff on board Golden Wattle can help locals with Centrelink claims - just like the Farm Household Allowance or Age Pension - Medicare registrations and online services.
A social worker will also be on board, and information about Department of Veterans' Affairs programs and associated support services are available, too.
Attendees do not need an appointment - and it's free.
So, anyone who needs help or has a question should visit the team aboard Golden Wattle.