Council boosts outreach services to Frankston’s most vulnerable

Published on 07 November 2025

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Frankston City Council is expanding and strengthening local outreach services, increasing access to the Monash University Social Work Clinic and providing a $12,000 funding boost to the Frankston Life Street Chaplaincy Program.

According to the Frankston City Health and Wellbeing Profile 2025, almost 800 people experienced homelessness in 2024-2025, with higher-than-average rates of mental health issues, family violence, and drug and alcohol-related hospital presentations compared to the Victorian average. *

Councillor David Asker said the investments were a response to clear community need and focus on delivering compassionate, community-focused support.

“We know many in our community are doing it tough,” said Cr Asker. “Help isn’t always easy to find, which is why we’re investing in these programs to reach our most vulnerable residents where and when they need it most.”

Mayor Kris Bolam said Council’s commitment to outreach services was part of a wide-ranging portfolio of initiatives aimed at delivering long-term change in the community.

“There are many ways to address disadvantage, and as a Council we’re not afraid to try them all. Our vision is to move Frankston City forward, but we must ensure no one is left behind. “

“We’re determined to break the cycle of disadvantage by tackling its root causes, not just its symptoms, because lasting, compassionate solutions are the foundation of community wellbeing and safety.”

“We’re done with the rinse-and-repeat approach. It’s time to break the cycle and build real solutions”.

Launched at Frankston Library in September last year, the Monash University Social Work Clinic has already supported more than 225 clients with free, confidential assistance. Services include help with housing applications, emotional support, advocacy, referrals, and more.

Staffed by postgraduate students from Monash’s Master of Social Work program and supervised by qualified practitioners, the clinic provides counselling, case management, and practical support in line with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) Code of Ethics.

Following a successful first year, the clinic will now expand its reach, operating three days a week (Tuesday to Thursday) at Frankston Library and opening a second site at Carrum Downs Library in early 2026. Locals can also access the service by phone, online, or by appointment.

Maura Bevilacqua, Director of the Field Education Program and Monash Social Work Clinic Lead, said the community’s response to the program had been extraordinary.

“The ripple effect of our efforts has been truly inspiring, reaching far and wide, offering a safe place where no one is turned away,” Ms Bevilacqua said.

“This achievement is more than a milestone; it’s a testament to the hope, resilience, and kindness that bind us all, and that shine so brightly in the Frankston community.”

The Monash University Social Work Clinic builds on Council’s recent $40,000 expansion and $200,000 commitment to a 12-month extension to the Community Connectors program, in which trained social workers operate in the CBD and Frankston Station areas providing assistance, advice, and referrals to local services that can offer longer-term support.

Council is further strengthening street-based outreach with a $12,000 funding boost to the Frankston Life Street Chaplaincy Program to support volunteer training, first aid, and essential equipment.

Established by Pastor Mark Whitby, CEO at Frankston Life Community Inc and former Frankston City Citizen of the Year, the program uses trained volunteers in teal vests to provide a safe, non-judgmental and caring presence and offer practical assistance, emotional support, and community connection.

The service complements existing support networks by focusing on times of increased vulnerability, including evenings and weekends. Support ranges from water and blankets to referrals to local health, housing, and social services, with close collaboration between Councils Community Safety Team and Victoria Police.

Pastor Whitby said the program acts as a bridge between vulnerable people and existing support services.

“By building trust, offering practical help and a listening ear, we can reach people who might otherwise fall through the cracks, while creating a safer, more welcoming city,” said Pastor Whitby.

Council’s Local Support Package has also delivered targeted funding to other outreach initiatives (including other faith-based programs), such as:

  • $10,000 to Life-Gate Inc. to help vulnerable youth and families through professional counselling, life-skills training, and outreach services;
  • $5,000 to Peninsula Health’s Alcohol and Other Drug Services for assessment, treatment and support programs;
  • $10,000 to Street Peace to support and mentor at-risk and disengaged youth;
  • $10,000 to Frankston Headspace to assist young people facing substance abuse, homelessness and mental health challenges;
  • $10,000 to Peninsula Christian Care for food, toiletries, no-interest loans and social connection programs;
  • $10,000 to Frankston Winter Shelter for housing, professional counselling and support programs;
  • $10,000 to Sikh Volunteers Australia for free vegetarian meals delivered three times weekly to people in need;
  • $10,000 to Mums Supporting Families In Need for clothing, toiletries and essentials for families in crisis;
  • $5,000 to Family Life – Frankston for family violence support and counselling.

Further information about the Monash University Social Work Clinic is available at https://library.frankston.vic.gov.au/Community-Connection/News-and-Updates/News/Monash-University-Social-Work-Clinic-at-Frankston-Library.

For information about the Frankston Life Street Chaplaincy Program, visit https://frankston.life/streetchaplains/.

* Frankston City Health and Wellbeing Profile 2025

 

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