An advocate is someone you have nominated to act on your behalf in relation to any housing matters you have with us.
Why use an advocate?
An advocate can help you have fair access to all Department of Communities (Housing) services. We encourage our clients, who need help when contacting Housing, to engage an advocate.
Who can be an advocate?
An advocate may be:
- Someone working for a professional support service
- A friend or relative nominated by you
How do I start using an advocate?
You will need to complete and sign the Agency/Advocate Consent form and return it to your nearest Housing office before we can discuss or release any information to your advocate. This process is to protect you and ensure that private and confidential information is only shared with your nominated advocate.
You will need to complete this form even if your advocate is a family member or friend.
What will happen when I use an advocate?
Your advocate will help you to access services including advocacy, counselling and emergency relief. They can interact with Housing and speak on your behalf.
You can also bring your advocate to Housing meetings.
Where do I find an advocate?
You may nominate a support service as your advocate. The local and state-wide support services listed in our Help is Available brochures list some options. These brochures are available on the right hand side of this page or you can contact your local Housing office for a copy. Alternatively, you may nominate a friend or family member to become your advocate.