Health support
Health support
We receive annual funding from the Victorian Government to support Forgotten Australians in meeting costs related to your health needs.
This includes, but is not limited to, the following categories.
- Dental expenses
- Medicare out-of-pocket expenses
- Private Health gap expenses
- Optical
- Hearing aids, mobility aids and equipment
- Allied health expenses
- Homecare expenses
- Pharmaceutical expenses
- Medical accommodation and transport
Our Health team can also help you to navigate mainstream and specialist health services and, where possible, will negotiate with health providers to maximise your benefits.
You can find out more in the Open Place Health Support Guidelines, which are reviewed and updated annually at the start of each financial year.
Before you access a service, please contact Open Place to confirm that your funding request is approved.
Please note that Open Place has over 4,000 registered service users, and the health funding we receive is limited. If the demand for health support exceeds our funding, requests from service users may be prioritised based on need.
How do I get started?
For more information about health support, please send us an online enquiry or phone 1800 779 379 and ask to speak to a member of the Health team.
More about our services
Richmond Drop-In
Meet up with other Forgotten Australians, use computers and facilities, get support, share a meal and take part in group activities. Available on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
Records searches and family reunions
Our Records, Find & Connect team can support you to access records from your time ‘in care’ and to search for family members.
National Redress Scheme support
Free support for Forgotten Australians who are applying for, or thinking of applying for, redress through the National Redress Scheme.
Counselling
Talk privately with a trained professional who can listen, offer support, advice, and share new ways of thinking about any challenges that you’re facing.
Coordinated support
We provide information, referral, casework and advocacy to help Forgotten Australians to improve your health and wellbeing.
Social support groups
Join our monthly meet-ups to talk about shared interests and take part in group activities and events designed to support your health and wellbeing.
Community education
We are committed to raising community awareness about the challenges faced by Forgotten Australians, with the aim of improving your access to services.
Events and activities
Upcoming Drop-In activities and other events for Forgotten Australians organised by Open Place.