Homelessness Service

ac.care is a Specialist Homelessness Service provider supporting people who are homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness.

The Homelessness service in all locations and includes:

  • Brokerage funds
  • Crisis support
  • Early intervention advice and information
  • Homeless Children’s Support
  • Outreach Support
  • Wait-list support
  • Referral to other services
  • Supported Accommodation options

 

We work with other organisations and the community using a collaborative process of assessment, planning, facilitation and advocacy for options and services to meet an individual’s needs and provide non-judgemental and non-discriminatory advice. ac.care understand the unique elements of Aboriginal and multicultural client engagement and service delivery and have Aboriginal and Multicultural Advocates to ensure we provide the most culturally appropriate service.

The service is available for young people, adults, families and their children.

To access the service either visit one of the locations, call the office to make a time or email us on: care@accare.org.au

Some of the ways that ac.care helps:

We recognise that homelessness is the result of many factors and life experiences. We respect the experience of every homeless person we have contact with and we understand that there are many challenges on the road to change.

We work in partnership with our service users, and support them through the ups and downs of life. In each of our programs, we place a high priority on creating good connections between the person and the community in which they live.

Early intervention is a key investment in the alleviation of homelessness. ac.care is a Specialist Homelessness Service Provider with the State Government of South Australia.

Homelessness in rural communities

Homelessness for many is characterised by constant movement between different types of accommodation: the street, homeless shelter, boarding houses. Alternatively, it may be from home to a refuge, a family member or a caravan park. Constant movement from one location to another is described as ‘couch surfing’ and is how most homeless people exist day-after-day, night-after-night in the rural towns of South Australia.

The research tells us that the experience of homelessness in rural communities can be particularly hard to bear for a number of reasons: The shame and humiliation that is felt by many who experience homelessness in a close knit community. Homeless people can be more easily identified and thus seen as different. Homeless people say that in country areas they are more likely to be seen as failing and discriminated against

 


What to do if you are homeless or at risk

Contact your local ac.care office or for support out of hours contact the Homelessness Gateway on 1800 003 308.

An appointment will be made for you to see one of our specialist homelessness workers. where you will be asked a variety of questions to assess your needs. We will work with you to either try to keep a tenancy, find safe and stable accommodation options or provide you with emergency relief.

 

What to do if you think someone is homeless (eg, rough sleeper)

The first thing is not to assume that the person is homeless. Sometimes people are travelling through and they may be on a lower income and do not want to pay for a hotel or caravan so they do sleep rough. Please also understand there are privacy issues around taking images of anyone, no matter their situation. If you want to do something to assist you could approach the person ask them if they are okay. Do not expect a pleasant response in all circumstances. It is preferable that you contact ac.care directly about any person you have concerns for. If it is after hours please contact Homelessness Gateway 1800 003 308.

We will make contact with the person and ask them ‘are they ok?’ and then we could look at some emergency accommodation for them and work with them towards safe and stable long term accommodation. Not everyone wants our help and we cannot force people to take our help.

Crisis Accommodation

Crisis Accommodation is short-term assistance for people who are homeless and have no overnight housing options. Eligible people receive assistance and support to access short term community accommodation options, providing a “breathing space” which allows time for longer term accommodation options to be explored.

This service is available in the Murraylands, Limestone Coast and the Riverland.

Specialist Homelessness Service

ac.care is a Specialist Homelessness Service provider supporting people who are homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness to help them achieve their maximum possible degree of self reliance and independence.

We work with other organisations and the community using a collaborative process of assessment, planning, facilitation and advocacy for options and services to meet an individual’s needs and provide non-judgemental and non-discriminatory advice.

The Limestone Coast, Murraylands and Riverland Homelessness Service is available for:

  • Youth
  • Adults
  • Families

ac.care understand the unique elements of Aboriginal and multicultural client engagement and service delivery and have Aboriginal and Multicultural Advocates to ensure we provide the most culturally appropriate service.

Intensive Tenancy Support

Intensive Tenancy Support is for people in private and public rental and is designed to help people at risk of eviction retain their existing accommodation to prevent homelessness. Their tenancy may be at risk due to non-payment of rent, property damage, neighbourhood disruption, hoarding and squalor.

In order to assist people to overcome their identified issues and maintain a successful tenancy, the program offers advocacy and practical support to build skills in household management and/or relationships, both within the family and with the wider community.

Access to this program is via referral please contact your local Homelessness Service office in the Limestone Coast, Murraylands or Riverland.

Supportive Housing Packages

Individualised support to high needs clients who have been housed in new houses built through the Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan

If housing is not available, clients can still be supported through Outreach services where staff provide advocacy advice/assistance to help them secure community accommodation options.

Qualified and experienced staff help individuals involved in the accommodation programs to improve their independent living skills, assisting them with financial management, relationships, employment or education opportunities and challenging emotional issues related to substance addiction or abuse. In addition, ac.care delivers basic budgeting education, relationship counselling and linkage with other services appropriate to individual needs.

The Homelessness Service is funded by the Federal and State Governments’ National Affordable Housing Agreement and National Partnership Agreement on Homelessness.

About Country South Homelessness Alliance

Established in 2021, the Country South Homelessness Alliance is a collaborative partnership between four community-based organisations and the South Australian Government. Our Alliance partners – ac.careJunction AustraliaMoorundi Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organization, and Pangula Mannamurna Aboriginal Corporation – work alongside our government partner, the Department of Human Services, to deliver specialist homelessness services across regional South Australia.

Each partner brings deep, long-standing connections to their communities and a shared commitment to place-based support. Together, our vision is that every person we support has a safe place to live—and the opportunity to pursue what matters most to them.

Getting assistance

We support people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness across the Fleurieu and Kangaroo IslandLimestone CoastMurraylands, and Riverland regions.

Our local teams work alongside you to understand your individual needs. We provide advice, information, and tailored support to adults, children, young people, and families.

  • For support in the Limestone CoastMurraylands, or Riverland regions, click here.
  • If you’re in the Fleurieu or Kangaroo Island regions, click here.

To learn more about our Aboriginal community-controlled partners:

  • Click here to visit Moorundi Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organization.
  • Click here to visit Pangula Mannamurna Aboriginal Corporation.

Emergency contact numbers:

  • Homeless Connect SA (out of hours support): 1800 003 308
  • National Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Helpline (24/7): 1800 737 732 (1800 Respect)
  • Lifeline (24/7): 131 114
  • Kids Helpline (24/7): 1800 55 1800

If you are concerned for the immediate safety of yourself or someone else, please call 000 for emergency assistance.

Tenancy Education Program

TED – Tenancy Education Program

TED – Tenancy Education Program – is an award winning initiative of ac.care which started as a pilot in Mount Gambier from the funds from the Support Homeless People Luncheons. TED is now available in the Adelaide Hills, Murray Mallee, Riverland and Limestone Coast.

For more information about the TED program, please contact care@accare.org.au or:

 

Mount Gambier Community Centre

22-24 Ferrers Street, Mount Gambier

7725 3000

 

ac.care Berri

5 Kealley Street, Berri

8580 5300

 

ac.care Murray Bridge

29 Bridge Street, Murray Bridge

8531 4900

Emergency Relief

Emergency Relief provides limited financial assistance and food items to people who are experiencing financial difficulties.

 

The service provides immediate response to a crisis situation for people in a way that maintains the dignity of the individual and encourages self-reliance.

The program may provide support with:

  • Pantry Food
  • Fuel vouchers
  • Prescriptions
  • Appointments

Appointments are required or referrals accepted by another agency.

 

What to bring with you:

  • your personal ID
  • Centrelink card (if applicable)
  • current Income Statement from Centrelink
  • any accounts/bills or medical appointments etc that may have caused you to seek assistance from ac.care

 

Contacts to make appointments:

Berri Community Centre

Thursday mornings 9:30am – 11.45 am

(10 x 15 minute appointments)

To make an appointment, please phone Berri Community Centre: 8580 5300

 

Millicent Community Centre

Wednesday and Friday Mornings

9.30am – 11am (4 appointments per day)

To make an appointment, please phone Millicent Community Centre from 3:00pm Tuesdays for ERP on Wednesday. Call: 8735 5700

 

Mount Gambier Community Centre

Monday 9.00am to 11.30 am (5 appointments)

Wednesday 9.00am to 11.30 am (5 appointments)

Friday 9.00am to 11.30 am (5 appointments)

To make an appointment, please phone the ac.care Mount Gambier Community Centre: 7725 3000

 

ac.care Murraylands Centre

Tuesday and Thursday mornings

9.30am – 12:00noon (6 appointments)

To make an appointment, please call ac.care Murray Bridge: 8531 4900

Studio Purpose

 

FOUR youths at risk of homelessness in the Murray Bridge area are now housed in modern apartments after local agencies and community partners worked together to make the Studio Purpose vision a reality. Habitat for Humanity led the construction phase of the innovative project and received broad community support to transform a vacant South Australian Housing Authority duplex into four units, thanks to contributions from the trades sector, construction businesses and volunteers. Community contributions allowed the development to be completed under-budget and ahead of schedule, with the complete apartments handed over in August 2021 for ac.care to welcome the first tenants as part of an innovative housing and support initiative.

DONATE: Anyone can make a tax-deductible donation online to help ac.care support Studio Purpose tenants HERE.

ONGOING SUPPORT: Call the ac.care Murraylands Centre on 8531 4900 to discuss any proposed ongoing support for the youth homelessness service.

Project Partners
Habitat for Humanity Australia, Habitat for Humanity South Australia, Anglicare SA, Rural City of Murray Bridge, headspace Murray Bridge, SA Housing Authority

 

 

COMMUNITY PROJECT: Murray Bridge volunteer Steve Brown, Habitat for Humanity’s Andrew Hurst and ac.care Murraylands Homelessness Service manager Thanuja Hiripitiyage welcome progress on the Studio Purpose development in Murray Bridge, which will provide four apartments for youths at risk of homelessness in the region.

National Homelessness Week 2022 voice and photo exhibition

 

Reflections on Homelessness – Our Future Can Still Be Bright – National Homelessness Week 2022 voice and photo exhibition

 

 

The Reflections on Homelessness – Our Future Can Still Be Bright exhibition was hosted by ac.care at Murray Bridge Town Hall on August 2, but is now available online in digital format.

Hosted as part of National Homelessness Week 2022, the event provided an opportunity for people who have experienced homelessness to express themselves by sharing photographs, written reflections and recorded audio statements, offering unique insight into their lives.

Explore this page to listen to our community’s voice through recordings and reflect on the photographs after the exhibition promoted self-expression to raise awareness of the housing crisis across Australia and our community.

ac.care would like to acknowledge and thank the people who contributed to this exhibition by sharing their personal experiences through images and audio.

WARNING: Some content featured below from the 2022 exhibition is confronting and includes themes of homelessness, substance abuse and domestic violence. Viewer and listener discretion is advised.

If you or someone you know is homeless or at risk, contact your local ac.care office on 1300 ACCARE (1300 222 273) or out of hours contact the Homelessness Gateway on 1800 003 308. An appointment will be made for you to see one of our specialist homelessness workers. We will work with you to either try to keep a tenancy, find safe and stable accommodation options or support you with emergency relief.

 


 

Murraylands Photo Exhibition

 

THE impacts of homelessness viewed through the eyes of Murraylands youths will be explored in an art exhibition launching in August. Our Time Is Now is a collection of art from youths aged 14 to 17, sharing their personal reflections on homelessness and hardship as part of the ac.care project.

Coinciding with National Homelessness Week, held from August 7-13, the exhibition will be officially launched on Wednesday, August 9, at 10.30am at The Square in Murray Bridge.

 


 

Riverland Photo Exhibition

 

RIVERLAND residents affected by homelessness have shared their personal experiences through photos and words as part of an exhibition being launched by ac.care in Berri next week.

Places of refuge, the impact of a warm shower and the stability a home provides are all portrayed in the exhibition, which will go on public display for National Homelessness Week (August 7-13).

ac.care Riverland Homelessness Service manager Michelle Storry praised the people involved in the exhibition, encouraging the community to visit the Renmark Square shopping complex next week to view their stories.

 

Support Homeless People Luncheon

“We can all make a difference in the lives of those who are struggling, particularly when we come together,” the late Barry Maney OAM

The late Mr Barry Maney OAM always had a great empathy for people struggling in our community .

It was after a meeting with ac.care early in 2011 and reading a front page article in The Border Watch that Mr Maney learnt of the high number of homeless people ac.care was helping. Funds were desperately needed to provide extra support for finance, health, education, accommodation, household goods and employment etc. He discussed this with Mr Barry Stafford from The Barry Maney Group, who suggested a networking lunch that could bring businesses and organisations together to network, listen to a key-note speaker and raise funds.

Total funds raised to date: $340,000

 

Since 2012, 1147 local people, including children, have been assisted with the funds raised at the bi-annual Support Homeless People Luncheon. Businesses and the community have come together to raise over $340,000 for people who experience homelessness in the Limestone Coast.

ONE of the Limestone Coast's biggest fundraising events is back to support the work of ac.care in supporting vulnerable people at risk of or experiencing homelessness.

The Limestone Coast Support Homeless People Luncheon will return to The Barn Palais on July 28.

A packed program of high-profile guest speakers, auctions, raffles and other activities to raise funds to support the work of ac.care is being finalised to feature on the day.

“This event traditionally sells out and attracts around 500 people to a remarkable day of fundraising, learning about homelessness in the Limestone Coast and how businesses and other stakeholders can make a difference, plus providing a great opportunity to network with people from across the region,” said event ambassador Barry Stafford, who has long been pivotal in the success of the luncheon.

On 13th April 2018, a sell out crowd of 500 business and community members raised $125,000 at lunch. The luncheon was again held at The Barn Palais, with key note speaker Mr Tim Guest. A video was shown of three people who had experienced homelessness and had been helped by ac.care talking to three business owners who support the work of ac.care. The committee was joined by Astyn Reid from Kinship Productions.

In 2014 another lunch was organised by the same committee, this time renamed to “Support Homeless People Luncheon”.

The interest had grown so much that the Luncheon was moved to The Barn Palais to accommodate the extra numbers. The key note speaker was Mr David Brand, Chairman and Managing Director New Forests Ltd. A young woman, Ellen, who had experienced homelessness also spoke.

Three hundred and sixty-people attended and raised $77,000.

In August 2011, Mr Maney brought together a small committee comprising Anne Hinkly-Tyler (ac.care), Barry Stafford (Director-Barry Maney Group) and Robin Reid (The Border Watch) and together this team arranged a fundraising luncheon in April 2012 titled “Help Build the Bridge”.

This inaugural event was held in the City Hall and the guest speaker was Mr Stephen Gerlach AM, Chancellor of Flinders University and Chairman of Foodbank SA.

The luncheon was a sell-out, with 162 guests attending and more than $38,000 was raised.

Support Homeless People Luncheon News

Coopers foundation and brewery chair Melanie Cooper AM to speak at Limestone Coast Support Homeless People Luncheon

Jul 1, 2025

A STATE leader in business and philanthropy will visit Mount Gambier to speak at the Limestone Coast Support Homeless People Luncheon next month. Coopers Foundation and Coopers Brewery chair Melanie Cooper AM will provide the keynote address at the event. The Limestone Coast Support Homeless People Luncheon will return to The Barn Palais on August … Continued

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BROAD SUPPORT: Close to 430 people attended the charity luncheon at The Barn Palais.

SAVE THE DATE – Major Limestone Coast homelessness fundraiser back in 2025

Dec 2, 2024

SAVE THE DATE! One of the Limestone Coast’s biggest fundraising events will be back in 2025 to support the work of ac.care in supporting vulnerable people at risk of or experiencing homelessness. The Limestone Coast Support Homeless People Luncheon will return to The Barn Palais on August 8, 2025. “This event traditionally sells out and … Continued

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Kelly’s story: Uncertainty the hardest part of homelessness

Oct 26, 2023

KELLY says the “unknown” is the hardest part of homelessness. “I had never been in that situation before, so it’s pretty hard,” she explains. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Kelly and her then-partner had well-paid jobs and structured lives. Yet a series of setbacks saw them camping on the beach at Robe with their children … Continued

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Jason, Peter and Shane at the Homelessness luncheon

Homelessness fundraiser raises close to $130,000 in a day

Aug 9, 2023

OUTSTANDING SUCCESS: Pictured above are 2023 Limestone Coast Support Homeless People Luncheon coordinator Jason Wallace, Premier Peter Malinauskas and ac.care chief executive officer Shane Maddocks celebrate the success of the luncheon, which raised close to $130,000 to support vulnerable people.

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Two weeks until major Limestone Coast charity luncheon

Jul 14, 2023

We have a fantastic afternoon planned with Premier Peter Malinauskas visiting as our guest speaker and capacity for 500 people to enjoy a long lunch while learning about ac.care

Learn more

Premier Peter Malinauskas to address Limestone Coast Support Homeless People Luncheon

Jun 29, 2023

PREMIER of South Australia Peter Malinauskas will visit Mount Gambier next month as the guest speaker for the Limestone Coast Support Homeless People Luncheon.

Learn more
SHPL-team-outside-Barn-scaled-1

Limestone Coast Support Homeless People Luncheon returns

May 22, 2023

ONE of the Limestone Coast’s biggest fundraising events is back to support the work of ac.care in supporting vulnerable people at risk of or experiencing homelessness.

Learn more

Study shows vulnerable people priced out of housing

Apr 27, 2022
Vulnerable priced out of housing About ac.care's homelessness services Snapshot Methodology Findings in detail Policy Implications Vulnerable priced out of housingVulnerable priced out of housingA STUDY of properties available in southern country South Australia has found the private rental market is failing people on low incomes."Some people may have shelter or accommodation, but for many … Continued
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April date set for Support Homeless People Luncheon

Dec 20, 2021

REOPENING of state borders has prompted scheduling of Friday 8 April for the Limestone Coast Support Homeless People Luncheon at the Barn Palais. The announcement follows several COVID-19 induced postponements of the sold-out event. Everything that makes the luncheon special will remain the same, including keynote speaker Melanie Cooper OAM, emcee Rupert McCall AM and … Continued

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After Hours – all locations

 

Homelessness Gateway (24/7) – 1800 003 308

Youth Gateway – 1800 807 364

Domestic and Aboriginal Family Violence Gateway – 1800 800 098

ac.care️ 14 hours ago

To celebrate National Homelessness Week 2025 (August 4-10), the ac.care Murraylands homelessness service is asking the community what small act they have made to impact positively on someone in need 💙🧡 These small acts of kindness are often done with little or no acknowledgement, but we know that when combined, they can make a big change in our communities. We want to share your good deeds and inspire others to think and act with kindness and compassion for all people 😊 Simply describe your act(s) in 150 words or less and we will share your story on the ac.care Facebook page during #HomelessnessWeek2025. Murraylands residents will also enter a random prize draw with winners selected after submissions close on Friday, August 15. Visit the link below for full campaign details and to make a submission 👇 Share your story: https://bit.ly/smallactsbigchange #accare #homelessness

ac.care️ 2 days ago

There is a big week of fun and connection coming up across regional South Australia as we observe National Homelessness Week and Loneliness Awareness Week (August 4-10), and celebrate National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day (Monday!) 🎉💙🧡 Here is just a sample of the events happening across the Riverland, Murraylands and Limestone Coast. As well as this account, you can follow our Berri, Millicent and Mount Gambier community centre noticeboards for your latest ac.care news, events and opportunities 😁 🔹 Berri Community Centre noticeboard - ac.care 🔸 Millicent Community Centre noticeboard - ac.care 🔹 Mount Gambier Community Centre noticeboard - ac.care #accare #opportunitiesforcountrypeople #walkingtogether #homelessness

ac.care️ 4 days ago

Our friends at Riverland Safe Pets Safe Families are looking for new volunteers to help provide Paws & Pals - homeless support for people experiencing hardship so their furry companions stay happy and healthy 🐾💙🧡 Berri Community Centre has been fortunate to host free, pop-up vet clinics that include general animal health checks, treatments, microchipping and registration, warm baths, as well as equipping people with collars, harnesses, pet food and other free supports. The service also extends across the Riverland and support is needed to help transport people and their pets to appointments at local vet clinics. Get in touch with Riverland Safe Pets Safe Families for more information on how you can help. #accare #homelessness #opportunitiesforcountrypeople

ac.care️ 7 days ago

The impacts of homelessness and loneliness will be in the spotlight next week as we observe National Homelessness Week and Loneliness Awareness Week (August 4-10) 💙🧡 People in the Riverland are invited to a free BBQ breakfast at Berri Community Centre on Wednesday, August 6 from 9am-11am 😋🍳🥓 Stop by and connect with community, show your support, and learn more about these challenging issues and how we can help you or someone you know. Keep connected to local ac.care news, events and opportunities at Berri Community Centre noticeboard - ac.care #accare #homelessness #opportunitiesforcountrypeople

ac.care️ 1 week ago

The countdown is on and limited tickets remain 🥳 Get yours now 🎫 https://accare.supporterhub.net.au/events/shpl2025 #accare #increaseourimpact #homelessness

ac.care️ 2 weeks ago

Enjoy a lunch with a difference at the Limestone Coast Support Homeless People Luncheon 😋💙 The region's premiere business networking event promises to deliver a great day out at The Barn while raising funds to help increase our impact in the lives of vulnerable people in our community. Book now 🎫 https://accare.supporterhub.net.au/events/shpl2025 #accare #homelessness #increaseourimpact

ac.care️ 3 weeks ago

Thank you to the generous businesses, schools, community groups and residents across the Limestone Coast, Murraylands and Riverland who have donated items to help bring comfort to people in need this winter 💙🧡 With cold conditions continuing, demand remains for blankets, jumpers and other warm clothing at our ac.care sites. Can you help #increaseourimpact on local people? Visit https://accare.org.au/contact-us/ to find your nearest ac.care site 🙏 Thank you. #accare #homelessness #opportunitiesforcountrypeople

ac.care️ 4 weeks ago

The 2025 Limestone Coast Support Homeless People Luncheon is one month away and Melanie Cooper AM (Coopers Brewery, Coopers Foundation) has been announced as the keynote speaker 💙🧡 Be at The Barn on August 8 for a lunch that makes a difference. Book your seat: https://accare.supporterhub.net.au/events/shpl2025 #accare #homelessness #IncreaseOurImpact

ac.care️ 1 month ago

Thank you Park Drycleaners for once again serving as a collection point for the Limestone Coast Blankets and Winter Warmer Appeal 🤩👏 Michele and the team are collecting donations at 157 Commercial Street West, Mount Gambier. The basket full of winter warmer items pictured was dropped to ac.care today. This is a free service that is open to all residents, regardless of whether you are a customer 💙🧡 Donations of blankets, jumpers and other warm clothing and supplies are in demand as we work to support vulnerable people through the winter months. You can make a donation during business hours at your nearest ac.care site. Visit https://accare.org.au/contact-us/ to find us. This annual appeal is proudly supported by Triple M Limestone Coast and SAFM 96.1 Limestone Coast 🥰 #accare #homelessness #increaseourimpact

ac.care️ 1 month ago

“It is the community’s generosity through donations that helps give people comfort in their day to day while our dedicated team supports them through other challenges they are experiencing.” 🧥🧤🧦🧣🌂🥫 As wild, wintry weather moves through regional South Australia, ac.care homelessness and community services senior manager Trish Spark has encouraged the community to help increase the impact ac.care can have on vulnerable people. 💙🧡 Read more about ac.care's winter warmer appeal and how you can support local people in need this winter 👉 https://accare.org.au/winter-warmer-appeal-encourages-community-to-help-meet-demand/ #accare #homelessness #increaseourimpact

Meet Niki: Learn more about foster care at Mount Barker

🧡💙 Meet with Niki 💙🧡 Niki is a former foster carer now supporting carers across the Murraylands, Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu Peninsula ✨ Hear her story and have your questions answered about foster care on Thursday, November 21 at The Coffee Tin – Mount Barker Central Shopping Centre. Stop by between 10am-12pm for a chat! … Continued
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Niki’s foster care experience empowers others

ENSURING children experience safety, love and stability to thrive has been a lifelong commitment for Murraylands mother Niki Borchardt. In addition to raising her own children, she has provided a foster home with her husband for young people in need of care before joining the ac.care staff team as a key support worker for other … Continued
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Learn about foster care: Riverland information sessions

Local kids need local carers in the Riverland to support them to shine. Drop by and chat with Traci-Lee in October at Berri Barmera Library Service or Loxton Public Library to have your foster care questions answered. Whether you can provide long-term, short-term, respite or emergency care, we need everyday people like you who can … Continued
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Community forum to inspire people to open hearts and homes to children

PEOPLE passionate about the welfare of children are urged to attend a foster care forum this month in Strathalbyn to learn how they can make a difference in young local lives. Foster carers are needed to support vulnerable children unable to live with their birth parents in the Murraylands, Fleurieu Peninsula and Adelaide Hills. Regional … Continued
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Murraylands foster carers driven by love to help children succeed

MURRAYLANDS couple Suzanne and Darren Moss have been guided by love and a passion to help children succeed as country foster carers for almost a quarter of a century. Blessed with a country lifestyle on 130 acres in the Murraylands, the rural setting has provided a perfect backdrop for children to grow and thrive. From … Continued
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Hear from Holly – a foster carer with ac.care

Join Holly at Murray Bridge Library on Friday, February 23 to chat, ask questions and hear about her experience as a foster carer. Our foster care team member Melissa will also be there to discuss how ac.care supports carers and how to get your journey started. You can learn more about the difference Holly has … Continued
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Decades of care leaves proud legacy for Muir family

THE story of Murraylands couple Jock and Lynette Muir is one of generosity, kindness and true dedication to helping children in need. Decades ago, they opened their home to foster children with the support of country agency ac.care, providing a safe and loving environment, and ultimately changing the course of the lives of young people in their care.
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Childhood foster support prepares Jess to thrive as young adult

Become a foster carer – learn more MAKE every opportunity count has long been a mantra for Mount Gambier teenager Jess, who is about to embark on her next journey studying a double degree at the University of South Australia. It is the latest goal set by the 18-year-old who has been a high achiever … Continued
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Mount Gambier foster care manager swaps roles to help flood-affected residents

A MOUNT Gambier social worker witnessed first-hand the impacts of the River Murray flooding on Riverland communities after volunteering for three weeks to support affected residents. ac.care Limestone Coast foster care service manager Sherri Winter was a welcoming and compassionate presence for residents seeking support at the Riverland emergency relief centre in Berri. Ms Winter … Continued
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Fleurieu couple’s lives transformed by foster care

"He's done more for us than we have for him," says Fleurieu Peninsula foster carer Tony about the boy he has welcomed into his family with wife Laura.
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National Child Protection Week highlights need for foster carers

CARING adults living in regional South Australia can play a key role in ensuring the state's most vulnerable babies, children and young people receive safety, care and support when they need it most.
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Mount Gambier foster care coffee morning

Do you have space in your heart and home to offer a child in the Limestone Coast your love and support as a foster carer?ac.care is seeking caring adults to become foster carers to support vulnerable local children long-term, short-term, in emergency situations or to provide occasional respite for other carers. You can find out … Continued
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Foster Care information session coffee morning – Berri

Do you have space in your heart and home to offer a child in the Riverland your love and support as a foster carer? ac.care is seeking caring adults to become foster carers to support vulnerable local children long-term, short-term, in emergency situations or to provide occasional respite for other carers. You can find out … Continued
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Foster Care Information Session – Renmark Library

Become a foster carer with ac.care Join Brenton at Renmark Library, on Tuesday 22nd February at 4.30pm for an information session about the process to become a foster carer and to have your questions answered. To find out more, call 1300 ACCARE (1300 222 273) or email care@accare.org.au
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Lions helps share festive thanks to carers

LIONS clubs have helped ac.care share gratitude to foster carers on behalf of the community for the remarkable contribution they make to supporting young lives. When COVID-19 concerns prevented Christmas events being held to bring carers, children and ac.care staff together to mark the end of the year, Lions clubs answered the call for donation … Continued
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ac.care Locations

ac.care is a dynamic organisation servicing the South Australian communities the Limestone Coast, Murraylands, Riverland, Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu Peninsula.

Our mission is for all country people to have a safe home, enough money to live on and strong, positive relationships.

Please find our service locations here or use our contact form to request a service.

Mount Gambier
Head office and Foster Care

70-72 White Avenue Mount Gambier, SA 5290
PO Box 1842 Mount Gambier SA 5290
Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Mount Gambier
Community Centre

22-24 Ferrers Street Mount Gambier, SA 5290
Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Mount Gambier
Family Relationship Centre

1 Helen Street (cnr Bay Road) Mount Gambier, SA 5290
Monday
9am to 5pm
Tuesday
10:30am to 5pm
Wednesday
9am to 5pm
Thursday
9am to 5pm
Later by appt
Friday
9am to 5pm

Berri Community Centre
Servicing the Riverland

5 Kealley Street, Berri, SA 5343
PO Box 1345 Berri, SA 5343
Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Murraylands Centre
Servicing the Murraylands, Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu Peninsula

29 Bridge Street, Murray Bridge, SA 5253
PO Box 2090 Murray Bridge, SA 5253
Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Millicent
Community Centre

57-59 George Street Millicent, SA 5280
PO Box 378 Millicent, SA 5280
Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm
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