MOSS

  • Find Support Programs
    • Older Persons High Rise Support Program (OPHRSP)
    • Housing Support for the Aged Program (HSAP)
    • Transitional Outreach Support Team (TOST)
    • Connections Program
    • North and West Regional Children’s Resource Program (NWRCRP)
    • Bright Futures-Children’s Specialist Support Service
    • Crisis Response Program
    • Catchment Youth Refuge
    • Youth & Family Program
    • Darebin Assertive Community Outreach (DACO)
    • Hume Transitional Support Program
    • MOSS Planned Activity Groups
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    • The MOSS Story
    • Our Vision & Mission
    • Our Partners
    • Child Safety Commitment
    • Consumer Commitment
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About MOSS

MOSS is a
not-for-profit
housing
support service

The MOSS story

The Merri Outreach Support Service (MOSS) story began in 1988 when Darebin Community members felt they needed to act to support the end of homelessness in the local community. Following a successful submission to DHS, the first MOSS doors opened in High Street, Northcote. Since then, we’ve been lucky to be able to open up many more offices to support those who are homeless across the Melbourne Metropolitan area.

 

MOSS Reconciliation Statement

MOSS is proud to have received the formal endorsement from Reconciliation Australia, of our inaugural Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan.  Click HERE to view.

MOSS acknowledges Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are the original inhabitants and traditional custodians of this country and have strong cultural and spiritual relationships to the land.

MOSS acknowledges the impacts of colonisation, public policies, disadvantage, racial discrimination and prejudice have, and continue to impact the lives of Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

MOSS is committed to working towards a genuine and sustainable reconciliation between Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the wider community.

MOSS believes a commitment to the ongoing process of reconciliation is vital to the attainment of a better future for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and all members of the community.

MOSS commits to working towards reconciliation through:

· Creating a welcoming environment where Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and members of the community, positively connect, support and live together with mutual respect and understanding.

· Recognising and valuing cultural diversity as an asset that enriches communities.

· Tackling racism and prejudice through education.

· Providing equity and equal opportunities

· Being dynamic, innovative and championing diverse communities

MOSS’s commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities includes producing the highest quality outcomes in all areas of our organisation, as well as contributing to the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This Statement reflects MOSS’s commitment to reconciliation.

Vision

Striving to end homelessness, sustaining
housing, strengthening communities.

Mission

MOSS treats all people equally by ensuring they feel welcomed, connected, involved, secure and supported.

MOSS continues to evolve and grow into the new modern world. The vision and mission statements reflect our strong focus and “what we stand for” in the community.

We continue to invest in the future direction of MOSS. Engaging our community in a way that promotes our core values is vital, as we provide services and support to the community’s most vulnerable.

Get involved

Our partners

MOSS partners with corporations and businesses who wish to see an end to homelessness and its causes. The work we do within the community would not be possible without their support.

Become a partner

Consumer commitment

This MOSS Consumer Commitment Model has been created to guide our efforts and to best reflect our core values and unique culture.

This model defines why we do what we do and our commitment to deliver programs, services, and support that best meets consumers and key stakeholders’ needs. It represents who we are, and our commitment to ensure that consumers are at the heart of everything we do.

Download the MOSS Consumer Commitment Model

Committed to the
safety of children

MOSS is committed to ensuring safety for all children who access our services.

We want children to be safe, happy and empowered. We are committed to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children’s cultural safety, the cultural safety of children from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and providing a safe environment for children with a disability and children who identify as LGBTI.

Read our full MOSS Child Safe Policy here
Read our MOSS Child Safe Code of Conduct here
Read the 'Taking Children's Safety Seriously' flyer here
Read the 'What to look for in a child safe organisation' Tip Sheet here
Read the 'Speak up - it's your right' flyer here
Read the 'Cultural safety for Aboriginal children' Tip Sheet here
Read the 'Safety of children from culturally & linguistically diverse backgrounds' Tip Sheet here
Read the 'Safety of children with a disability' Tip Sheet here

Meet the team

Meet the Executive team members and Board of Directors who work daily to fight the issues and causes of homelessness in the Melbourne region.

Program Managers

Nannette
Manager - Quality and Compliance

I am passionate about working within this sector as I believe that everyone should have access to support and a home that is safe, secure and affordable. I really enjoy the work that I undertake at MOSS as every day is different and rewarding. To me, a healthy community is connected, supportive and accessible.

Katrina
Program Manager- Social Support Groups

I have witnessed the issues people face during homelessness, loneliness, diversity, and financial hardship throughout my career. I am passionate about empowering our most disadvantaged, culturally diverse and vulnerable people within the local community. I understand the complex issues of older people living independently and the support they require to remain active and socially connected within the community. To me, a healthy community is characterised by connection, inclusion and acceptance.

Sene
Transitional Outreach Support Team incorporating Banyule Housing Support

MOSS has a great name in the sector for its client focused approach and flexibility in service delivery. Longevity of staff speaks to its culture and have watched MOSS grow and expand over the years with programs and funding. Each and every staff member, past and present have added to the richness of MOSS culture and history. To me, a healthy community is engaging, relatable and accessible.

Shirley
Program Manager- OPHRSP & Housing Support for the Aged Program

I have been working with MOSS since 2014 across the agency and believe that the programs/services delivered in supporting people in the community to make a difference in their daily living and creating a safer place is unique in that it creates programs specifically designed to the unique programs we deliver. To me, a healthy community is one that values reaching out, listening and supporting.

Clint
Program Manager- Connections Program

During my time at MOSS I have led several programs, including our Crisis Response, Hume Transitional Outreach, Active Connections, NDIS Support Coordination and Connections programs. I want to live in a society that values everyone and where people with limited resources can still enjoy quality of life. To me, a healthy community is formed by equality, respect and compassion.

Talia
Program Manager- Bright Futures

I value that MOSS has always been a leader in supporting children who have experienced homelessness, including originating the Homeless Children’s Specialist Support Service model. All children should have access to safe and stable housing to enable them to lead healthy and fulfilling lives. To me, a healthy community is inclusive, equitable and supported.

Halime
Program Manager- North West Regional Children’s Resource Program

MOSS has always been committed to ensuring children accessing the service is provided with an individual response to ensure their rights are upheld. MOSS has continued to lead best practice in working with children. Working alongside my colleagues and management at MOSS who have the same passion and commitment as myself makes coming to work enjoyable. To me, a healthy community is adequate, equitable and accessible.

Vicki
Program Manager- Hume Transitional Outreach Program

Since the 90s, I’ve worked in a range of roles, from youth homelessness, refugee minors and MACNI. The program I work with provides team case management support to people who are homeless or at risk of experiencing homelessness. I support the Hume team to provide quality support to vulnerable people. To me, a healthy community is accessible, inclusive and supportive.

Executive Team

Mark Goodie
Chief Executive Officer

After an early career in finance, I moved into the Homeless sector almost 23 years ago and found my true passion. I believe that every person deserves safe affordable accommodation. MOSS as an organisation, team and individually as workers strive to ensure all consumers needs are met in finding a safe home. I believe in equality and social justice for all and trust that we as a community should assist those who may have stumbled to find sure footing again. To me, a healthy community is a diverse community with diverse housing.

Rita Lawrence
General Manager

I oversee a number of programs at our Northcote, Brunswick and Banyule sites. My career in the Housing and Homelessness sector began in the late ’80s in Northcote, but I had been working in the west since the mid ’90s.  Coming back to where I started, and now live, has been very exciting. It’s added a layer of appreciation of the impact we are having on the local community, with a more nuanced understanding of some of the gaps and emerging needs.

 

Lorraine Walker
Finance & Business Manager

A strong belief exists within the staff body that MOSS programs and services provide an unprecedented opportunity to improve the lives of those experiencing or likely to experience homelessness. I believe the importance of having a sustainable home, a safe environment provides the opportunity for equity allowing everyone to work to living their best life. To me, a healthy community is sustainable, connected and equitable.

George Liberopoulos
Growth. Partnerships. Sponsorships.

The MOSS culture is based on directing energy to foster trusting connections with consumers and making a meaningful difference in the community. To build a thriving, fair and resilient society, we need to address the issue of sustainable affordable housing. Providing basic housing and access to programs that best meet the wellbeing needs of our most vulnerable is a right, not a privilege. We all have a role to play to make the difference. To me, a healthy community is educated, connected and accessible.

Board of Directors

Phillip Bain
Director

Phillip is the former CEO (and sometimes Chair) of Your Community Health and will bring to MOSS his immense experience in health administration and politics. Phillip has a background in primary care management and governance. He has served on numerous Boards in TAFE and within the health sector and was until recently a Commissioner of the Victorian Multi-cultural Commission (VMC), as well as being a Municipal Councillor in Northcote for nine years until 1994, with two terms as Mayor. Early in his career he worked as a Ministerial Adviser to then Federal Health Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Brian Howe.

Lisa Calderone
Director

Lisa is the current Director of People & Culture at Kogan.com and will bring to MOSS  her leadership skills and people expertise gained in a range of commercial organisations across retail, utilities and wellness sectors, including Coles Group, Energy Australia, Chemist Warehouse and Swisse Wellness. She hopes to bring fresh eyes to the culture and people strategy of MOSS and to bring her commercial acumen and people skills to bear in framing our strategy. Lisa holds a Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Applied Commerce (Human Resource Management) from the University of Melbourne and Melbourne Business School.

Stephen Gagen
Chairperson

I have served on several Community Association Boards over the years, mainly in the arts field, and am a Director of Your Community Health Ltd and No FGM Australia Ltd. I am also a Justice of the Peace. I grew up in insecure, cold, damp, private-rental housing with no heating, bathroom or hot water. Then we moved into public housing. I have not forgotten my origins, and I have an abiding interest in social justice and adequate housing. To me, a healthy community is engaged, neighbourly and trusting.

Younes Benhim
Deputy Chairperson

I currently work with the Department of Education and Training after having spent time in the welfare sector facilitating programs and services for marginalised communities. With over 20 years in both public and private sectors, I’ve managed welfare programs as well as designed and implemented Community Services and other VET programs. My passion for empowering others led me to education where I continue to work closely with schools and agencies in supporting disengaged young people.

Heather Yasamee
Secretary

My career experience is primarily public service management. Getting to know more about specific issues of Homelessness has been quite an eye-opener for me. MOSS doesn’t see problems so much as people who need help across a very broad spectrum of housing, health and social well-being. It is quite a privilege to be associated with MOSS and I look forward to continuing my own contribution to the organisation. To me, a healthy community is stable, safe and socially just.

Richard Agar
Treasurer

I believe MOSS is unique for the quality of the people who work there and the level of their commitment to their profession. It’s about the difference they make to people’s lives and their willingness to go the extra mile to get quality outcomes. Housing is a basic human right and in a rich first world country like Australia, there is no reason that we should not be supplying resources to support the most vulnerable in our society. To me, a healthy community is inclusive, diverse and supportive.

Prameend Singh
Director

I have worked in the housing and homelessness sector for 20 years, notably with the former Homeground Services and North East Housing Services in the provision of frontline crisis housing services. I was a Board member of the state peak body for social housing Community Housing Federation of Victoria (CHFV) for two years. I am currently employed as the CEO of Inner East Social Housing Group Ltd which is a Registered Housing Provider.

Oscar Ramos
Director

I think MOSS is special and unique as it stands for social equity towards community members who experience homelessness. As a migrant from El Salvador and hearing stories about social justice, basic needs like shelter are a human right that those in a comfortable position ought to ensure establish for those in disadvantaged positions. To me, a healthy community is connected, full of respect and constantly growing.

Gurhan Araci
Director

Having grown up in a public housing estate I have witnessed the long term impacts on health and wellbeing caused from living within a marginalised community.I admire MOSS for it’s willingness to break away from tradition and look outside the box to seek better and more effective ways to cater for clients needs. To me, a healthy community is one that has safety, support and opportunity.

Our blog

Vale Uncle Jack Charles
It is a very sad time at MOSS. Our beloved MOSS Ambassador Uncle Jack Charles has died aged 79.   Uncle Jack Charles was a Boon Wurrung,...
Friday, 16 Sep 2022
Maya’s story
“I had no one to rely on, no family, no friends, not a single soul.” – Maya* (name changed to maintain privacy). In 2015, Maya was sponsor...
Friday, 29 Apr 2022
“Decrease the Digital Divide” with the M Digital Mentor Program
“Decrease the Digital Divide” with the M Digital Mentor Program Merri Outreach Support Service (MOSS) Moreland City Council Moreland Librari...
Tuesday, 13 Apr 2021
Responding to adolescent family violence: Findings from an impact evaluation
By Hayley Boxall, Anthony Morgan, Isabella Voce and Maggie Coughlan Originally published by the Australian Institute of Criminology Famil...
Monday, 15 Feb 2021
Building a mental health literacy model and verbal scale for children
The results of a Delphi study originally published on ScienceDirect By Justine Bale, Christine Grové, Shane Costello Abstract The purpo...
Monday, 15 Feb 2021
Evolution, Disruption & Growth
Written by Mark Goodie Chief Executive Officer, MOSS Organisations are continually evolving from one year to the next, but the impact o...
Tuesday, 12 Jan 2021
Load more stories

Frequently asked questions

For Councils

How do I make a referral directly to MOSS?

MOSS offers a broad suite of programs and one of our Program Managers will be happy to assist with your referral query

Can MOSS get someone a house?

There are many and varied housing options that may be suitable for consumers. During our initial assessment, we will explore these options and together with the consumer we will develop a plan to reach their housing goal.

Does MOSS support people in private rental?

Yes. Some MOSS programs can support people in private rental and one of our Program Managers, will be happy to discuss this with you

Does MOSS provide assistance for people aged 65+?

Yes. At MOSS we have several programs that provide assistance to over 65s.
Please click on the link for further information:
contact

Where can I access homelessness assistance for someone in my community?

If someone in your community is in crisis, they can get help by calling 1800 825 955
(24 hours / Free call)..
A housing and support worker will take the call. They will assess the individual’s needs and refer them to help in their local area.

For the Community

Can I donate secondhand toys and/or clothes?

No. We currently do not accept donations of secondhand toys or clothes. However, we do accept the donation of new toys and clothes.

How do I make a referral for local street homeless people or those who are sleeping rough in parks, etc

All referrals for local rough sleepers and homeless people are best assisted by calling 1800 825 955 (24 hours / Free call). A housing and support worker will take the call. They will assess the individual’s needs and refer them to help in their local area.

Where can I get homelessness assistance for myself or someone I know?

If you or someone you know are in crisis, you can get help by calling 1800 825 955 (24 hours / Free call).
A housing and support worker will take the call. They will assess your individual needs and refer you to help in your local area.

Can MOSS assist my friend/family member with health issues?

Yes. Some MOSS programs can accept referrals from friends and family. Please call
one of our Program Managers, who can assess your individual needs and direct you accordingly.
Email: hello@merri.org
Broadmeadows Phone: (03) 9359 5493
Northcote Phone: (03) 9482 3488

For MOSS Consumers

Does MOSS have houses?

No. We do not have housing. If you are supported by a MOSS program, we can assist you to apply for public housing, social housing and other housing options.
If you are in crisis, you can get help by calling 1800 825 955 (24 hours / Free call).
A housing and support worker will take the call. They will assess your individual needs and refer you to help in your local area.

Can MOSS get me a house or THM?

We do not have housing. If you are supported by a MOSS program, we can assist you to apply for public housing, social housing and other housing options.

Does MOSS have money for RIA and Bond?

No, MOSS does not have money for bonds or rent in advance/arrears. If you are supported by a MOSS program, we can support you to explore your eligibility to access a bond loan through the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (formerly DHHS). Likewise, we could also support an application for rent relief.

Can MOSS help me with a priority housing application?

If you are receiving support from a MOSS program and are eligible for priority housing, MOSS may be able to support you with this application.
Please contact one of our Program Managers, who can assess your individual needs and direct you accordingly.
Email: hello@merri.org
Broadmeadows Phone: (03) 9359 5493
Northcote Phone: (03) 9482 3488

Can you assist my friend/family member with housing and health issues?

Yes. Some MOSS programs can accept referrals from friends and family. Please call
one of our Program Managers, who can assess your individual needs and direct you accordingly.
Email: hello@merri.org
Broadmeadows Phone: (03) 9359 5493
Northcote Phone: (03) 9482 3488

Do I need a referral for MOSS?

Each program at MOSS has different requirements around referrals.
Please contact one of our Program Managers, who can assess your individual needs and direct you accordingly.
Email: hello@merri.org
Broadmeadows Phone: (03) 9359 5493
Northcote Phone: (03) 9482 3488

How do I get a support worker?

If you are referred to and deemed eligible for one of the support programs, a support worker will be allocated.
Please contact us:
Email: hello@merri.org
Broadmeadows Phone: (03) 9359 5493
Northcote Phone: (03) 9482 3488

Can MOSS assist me with housing, My Aged Care/NDIS referral?

MOSS will assist with referrals for housing options, My Aged Care, and NDIS, if the individual is assessed as eligible for the service the referral is for.
Please contact us:
Email: hello@merri.org
Broadmeadows Phone: (03) 9359 5493
Northcote Phone: (03) 9482 3488

Does MOSS provide material aid (e.g. washing machines, disability and walking aids, food vouchers)?

MOSS is not a material aid provider however in some instances for those that we are providing case management support to, we are able to try and source some support through partnerships with material aid providers.

Do you offer advice for people about to lose their tenancy?

We would advise that those at risk of losing their tenancy get in contact with Tenants Victoria.

Do you give referrals for dental, optometry, occupational therapy, podiatry, etc?

The key focus of our programs is to improve a clients’ health and wellbeing is a key focus of our programs. For allied health referrals, please contact our friends at Your Community Health:
Phone: (03) 8470 1111
Email: info@yourcommunityhealth.org.au
Website: https://www.yourcommunityhealth.org.au/
They offer medical, dental and allied health services and support programs at our health centres. Some services and activities may be available in your home or in community settings.

Annual reports

MOSS Annual Report 2022
pdf
MOSS Annual Report 2021
pdf
MOSS Annual Report 2020
pdf
MOSS Annual Report 2019
pdf
MOSS Annual Report 2018
pdf
MOSS Annual Report 2017
pdf
MOSS Annual Report 2016
pdf
MOSS Annual Report 2015
pdf
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This certification meets the requirements of AS/NZS ISO 9001:2015

This certification meets the requirements of the Department of Human Services Standards

© Merri Outreach Support Service Ltd 2021. ABN 42 318 912 323. All rights reserved.
All donations of $2 or more to Merri Outreach Support Service Ltd are tax-deductible.

 

Merri Outreach Support Service (MOSS) acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands and waters of Victoria.

 

MOSS is a place where people of diverse genders and sexual orientations are welcomed and supported.

 

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