Local residents will have access to more government services under the one roof when Medicare moves in with Centrelink at the Ryde Service Centre in April.
All staff and Medicare services currently located at Eastwood Shopping Centre will move to the one-stop shop at 19 – 27 Devlin Street on Monday 13 April.
Department of Human Services General Manager Hank Jongen said 170 communities around the country are already benefitting from one-stop shops.
“We are meeting the expectations of the community for more convenient access to government services,” Mr Jongen said.
“Since 2009, we’ve established 170 one-stop shops around the country – meaning customers are able to access more services from a single entry point.”
Mr Jongen said customers are also taking advantage of online and digital service options, which means for many customers there is no need to visit a service centre on a regular basis.
“Through myGov customers can access a range of government services with a single log on and password. This, together with the increase in electronic Medicare claiming, means the demand for face-to-face services has decreased,” Mr Jongen said.
“Nationally, more than 95 per cent of all Medicare services are being claimed electronically.
“The decrease in customers coming into our service centres, combined with the end of our lease at the Eastwood Shopping Centre, has contributed to the decision to consolidate our services into the Ryde Service Centre in Devlin Street.”
Mr Jongen highlighted the range of service options available.
“While the best way to claim your Medicare rebate is at your doctor’s, I encourage locals to check out the range of digital services available through myGov and the Department of Human Services Express Plus apps,” Mr Jongen said.
“While these alternative service options are available, face-to-face services will continue to be available at the Ryde one-stop shop for those who require more personalised or intensive support.”
The Ryde Service Centre will be open Monday to Friday, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
