Flexible support packages can be used to purchase services and goods nominated in the support plan.
Examples include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Freedom from abuse and violence – basic material needs including food, clothing, care packs, bills and utility debts.
- Technological safety support – CCTV, mobile phone, personal/property alarm, security doors or lighting. Security responses need to have a Personal Safety Initiative (PSI) response. For PSI enquiries please email psi@genwest.org.au.
- Good physical and mental health – medical or pharmaceutical costs not covered by Medicare or Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, physical aides, counselling or specialist services.
- Suitable and stable housing – public or private housing debt, mortgage costs, rent in advance, rent arrears, relocation costs, travel costs, furnishings and whitegoods in newly established housing.
- Participation in learning and education – schooling, educational costs, workforce readiness (for example adult education, TAFE courses, school supplies for children).
- Financial security and independence – clothing, care or placement of pets, outings, financial counselling, wellbeing courses.
- Identification and connection with culture and identity – travel, culturally specific service support, sporting, or cultural activities.
To access FSP funds through GenWest, clients must be case managed by a service in the western metropolitan region of Melbourne. Applications can be submitted by case managers only.
FSP outcomes need to be linked to current case plans. In addition to a risk assessment, and/or safety plan.
The program is administrated by GenWest on behalf of cohealth, McAuley Community Services for Women, Elizabeth Morgan House, MacKillop Family Services and InTouch, as members of the Western Integrated Family Violence Partnership Governance Group.
To find out more about applying for flexible support package funding on behalf of a client, read www.vic.gov.au/flexible-support-packages or email fsp@genwest.org.au. You can also download and read the following GenWest resources:
