Thank you for your submission to the Independent Review of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Support System’s ‘Overview of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Support System’ Issues Paper.
We confirm that the Independent Review has received your submission and that it will be considered during the course of the Review. If you have questions regarding the public consultation, please feel free to contact the Independent Review via email at ParliamentaryReview@finance.gov.au.
Support services
If you need support, services are available to you.
Parliamentarians
For people currently working or volunteering in Commonwealth parliamentary workplaces (CPWs) across Australia, as well as former parliamentarians, staff and volunteers of CPWs (not limited by location):
PWSS Counselling - free, confidential, in-house counselling and support for work and personal issues. Access via Suite M2.105, support@pwss.gov.au, SMS 0487 112 755, or call 1800 747 977 option 1 - 24/7.
Employee Assistance Program – Current MOP(S) Act employees and parliamentarians, as well as their immediate family and household members have free access to TELUS Health counsellors and supports for work and personal issues.
Access via 1300 360 364 or via PWSS website using the following details:
Username: pwss
Password: Wellbeing
Culturally appropriate support for First Nations people – a dedicated support line is available with clinicians who either identify as, or who have in-depth cultural awareness and experience supporting, First Nations people.
Access via TELUS Health on 1800 816 152.
Before Blue – an early intervention mental health program which provides tools and support to manage stress, build resilience, and enhance overall mental wellbeing.
Call 03 9810 6100 or register via the website using company code PWSS B4B.
Current MoP(S) Act employees can also access the following service:
Early Intervention Program – available if an employee sustains a work-related physical or psychological illness or injury and includes up to $5000 to reimburse out of pocket medical costs incurred accessing relevant treatment.
Access via PWSS at support@pwss.gov.au or whs@pwss.gov.au, SMS 0487 112 755 or call 1800 747 977.
Broader community
For the broader community, contact:
LifeLine Australia
Crisis support and suicide prevention
Ph: 13 11 14
SMS: 0477 13 11 14
Website: www.lifeline.org.au
Suicide Call Back Service
Counselling to people affected by suicide
Ph: 1300 659 467
Website: suicidecallbackservice.org.au
1800 Respect
Sexual assault, domestic and family counselling
Ph: 1800 737 732
SMS: 0458 737 732
Website: www.1800respect.org.au
MensLine
Counselling service and support for men
Ph: 1300 789 978
Website: www.mensline.org.au
Beyond Blue
Mental health information and support
Ph: 1300 224 636
Website: www.beyondblue.org.au
Q Life
Anonymous, free LGBTIQ+ peer support and referral
Ph: 1800 184 527 (3.00pm to midnight)
Website: www.qlife.org.au
