Service SA partners with Hutt Street Centre to support vulnerable South Australians

Thursday, 19 December 2024

A new ongoing collaboration between the State Government and the Hutt St Centre is helping vulnerable people, including those experiencing homelessness, rebuild their lives.

Under the partnership, Service SA staff attend the Hutt St Centre once a fortnight to assist people with essential life administration, offering a safe and accessible way to access identification documents.

Many vulnerable South Australians face significant barriers when trying to get identification documents, which are a crucial first step toward securing housing, banking, education and employment, and reconnecting with community services - key elements for rebuilding their everyday lives.

The initiative follows a successful eight-week trial that assisted around 40 people with the paperwork and photos for proof of age cards, fine management, driver licence status checks and setting up mySAGOV accounts on personal devices.

One client avoided losing their license after accessing timely assistance through the service - a critical outcome that allowed them to maintain their mobility and livelihood.

The trial revealed that vulnerable individuals often encounter stigma or feel judged when accessing traditional public services which discourages them from seeking help. A safe and trusted environment such as the Hutt St Centre helps break down these barriers, allowing people to engage with government services confidently.

The welcoming environment at Hutt St Centre allows Service SA staff to work more effectively to understand and address the unique needs of each person, creating solutions that genuinely help.

A Service SA staff member will attend the Hutt St Centre fortnightly on Thursdays from 8am to 12pm.