THE Mornington Centrelink office will remain open for good after plans to close it were abandoned last week.
In February last year, news broke that the federal government planned to shut the Mornington office of Medicare and Centrelink. After multiple short-term extensions, the decision has now been made to keep the office open permanently.
Flinders MP Greg Hunt said “as soon as I heard of plans to close the Mornington Service Centre, I have worked tirelessly with the relevant minister to secure a long-term solution for the community.”
“Following long standing and continued advocacy from myself, my office and the community, I am pleased to announce that we have secured an ongoing and permanent service for the Mornington community,” he said.
Dunkley MP Peta Murphy was a vocal critic of the federal government’s plan to shut the office and replace it with a single self-service desk at the post office available for 15 hours per week.
“The retainment of Mornington Medicare and Centrelink is a big win for the local community. I’d like to congratulate everyone who stood up and joined the campaign. The permanent office will ensure that elderly and vulnerable members of the community have access to the face-to-face support they need,” Ms Murphy said.
“Scott Morrison has been sent a clear message – the local community will not accept any attempt to reduce local essential services. Medicare and Centrelink are so important to Australians; they both ensure we get the support from government when we need it most.”