Essential home repairs

If a client meets all qualifications, they may be able to receive an Advance Payment of Benefit:

• to carry out essential repairs and maintenance to the client's home, or to the paths, fences and retaining walls of the property on which that home is located or
• to provide essential services to the client's home such as sewerage, water or electricity connection.

In addition to the Advance Payment of Benefit qualifications, a grant for Essential Home Repairs, may not be made unless:

• the client must provide proof of ownership (or joint ownership) and occupation of the property to which the advance is to be applied,
• that the work to be done is essential in order to maintain the property in a reasonable living standard; and
• the client must show proof they unsuccessfully applied for financial assistance from any other agency that provides assistance to beneficiaries for such purposes.

As a guideline, an Advance Payment of Benefit for Essential Home Repairs should not be more than $1000.