by Giot
The Werriwa Community Forum 2026 was held at the Carnes Hill Community and Recreation Precinct, bringing together residents and federal service providers in a well-attended event focused on direct engagement and practical support. The initiative was promoted by federal MP Anne Stanley, who represents the electorate of Werriwa in the Australian Parliament.
The forum was designed to give community members the opportunity to speak face to face with representatives from key government agencies, avoiding the long phone queues and online processes that many find frustrating. “It’s really important to be able to talk to people in person, without having to go through call centres or long waits on the phone,” Ms Stanley said during the event. “Being here physically means we can provide real and immediate support.”
A wide range of services were represented. Among them was Services Australia, which provides assistance with essential payments and programs such as the Age Pension, JobSeeker and My Aged Care. Representatives from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) were also present, offering guidance to individuals and families navigating disability support plans. The Western Sydney Migrant Resource Centre provided information and assistance to migrant families, reflecting the area’s strong multicultural character.
Officials from various federal departments also attended, creating a multidisciplinary setting where residents could move between information desks, clarify their individual situations and, in some cases, begin administrative processes on the spot. Organisers also ensured that the event was accessible to people with disabilities, with ramps, interpreters, and quiet spaces available, making sure everyone could participate comfortably.
The structure of the event allowed people to address multiple concerns in one visit, from pensions and aged care to disability services and social support programs, ensuring a comprehensive approach to community needs.
Energy affordability and sustainability were also key topics of interest. Information was available on initiatives such as the “Cheaper Home Battery Program” and “Solar Sharer,” both aimed at supporting households in reducing energy costs and transitioning to renewable solutions. In a time of rising living expenses, these programs drew significant attention from attendees seeking practical ways to manage household budgets.
Organisers described the turnout as “very significant.” “Many, many people have come today,” Ms Stanley noted. “It’s interesting to see how many questions and needs emerge when you create an accessible and informal space like this.” The atmosphere of the forum, less formal than a government office, encouraged open conversation and direct dialogue.
For the federal member, the forum was not only about delivering services but also about listening. “It gives me the opportunity to speak directly with my constituents and make sure that if there’s anything more we can do, we can help,” she said. The emphasis on proximity and accessibility reflects the realities of Werriwa, an electorate experiencing steady population growth and increasing cultural diversity.
Ms Stanley also stressed that assistance is not limited to special events. “My office is always available. You don’t have to wait for a community forum to come and see us. We are always ready to talk and to help,” she told attendees, reinforcing the message that ongoing support remains accessible year-round.
Given the strong response, plans are already under consideration to repeat the initiative. “It’s been very successful, and we’re thinking about organising another one very soon,” she confirmed, suggesting the Community Forum could become a regular fixture in Werriwa’s institutional calendar. Community groups and local organisations also expressed interest in participating more actively in future events, showing strong enthusiasm for continued collaboration.
At a time when public administration can often feel distant and complex, the Werriwa Community Forum 2026 stood out as a practical example of transparency and direct engagement. By bringing multiple levels of federal government together under one roof, the event strengthened the connection between elected representatives and the everyday concerns of the community, demonstrating that, sometimes, the most effective public service begins with a face-to-face conversation.
