Australians Deserve Better! "It Starts with Hello"

What if a single hello could change the course of someone’s life? The Spiers Centre’s new “It Starts with Hello” initiative invites our community to start conversations early — before worry about bills, rent or health becomes an emergency. Reaching out sooner gives people options, dignity and breathing space, and The Spiers Centre is focused on simple, confidential ways to help.

Support That Changes Lives

Financial stress and social isolation often build quietly: missed bills, rising energy costs, or sudden changes in work or health can push a household toward crisis. The Spiers Centre offers free, non-judgmental support to help people manage these pressures — from practical budgeting help and advocacy with creditors to food and essentials through emergency relief. These early steps make it easier to find a pathway back to stability.

One practical service that reduces ongoing pressure is the Energy Ahead program: a free energy audit and advice that helps households lower utility bills and access available rebates or support. For many families, reducing energy costs is a small change that leads to real financial breathing room.

Real lives show the difference. When “Caroline” reached out, what began with a single conversation turned into emergency relief, food support, financial counselling and referrals to utility hardship programs — steps that helped her move from survival toward planning for the future. Stories like hers remind us that early contact can be the turning point between crisis and recovery.

The Role of Community Generosity

Community generosity keeps these services running. The Spiers Centre makes it easy to give in ways that have immediate impact: for example, modest donations can provide a kids’ bedtime bundle, a family food box, or essential groceries for a family escaping domestic violence — and larger gifts help secure emergency housing support. The centre is a registered ACNC charity and donations over $2 are tax-deductible.

You don’t have to be an expert to help. Say hello to a neighbour, share resources, volunteer your time, or make a one-off or regular donation — every action helps prevent hardship from escalating. Local partnerships and funders also support this work, which amplifies the reach of the services and ensures people are connected to the right help when they need it.

Final Thought

A single hello may seem small, but for someone under pressure it can be the start of hope. When we choose connection over silence, we help people find practical solutions, restore dignity, and keep families safe. Please consider reaching out, sharing this message, or donating — together we can make sure fewer people fall into crisis.

Student Number: 10658588

(Disclaimer: This content is for the sole purpose of teaching and learning at Edith Cowan University and has not been endorsed or otherwise approved by the organisation it promotes.).