Work and Development Permit Counselling
Reduce your Victorian fines through counselling
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by unpaid fines, you’re not alone. Many people avoid opening mail or dealing with fines when life feels too full, especially if you’re highly sensitive, stressed, or going through a tough time.
The Work and Development Permit (WDP) program can help you reduce your fines while receiving therapeutic support.
I’m an approved WDP sponsor through Fines Victoria, which means eligible clients can access counselling sessions with me to help reduce their outstanding fines.
What is the Work and Development Permit (WDP) program?
The WDP program is a Victorian initiative that allows people experiencing financial hardship or vulnerability to receive support instead of paying their fines.
Through the WDP, you can reduce your fine debt by engaging in approved activities, including counselling and therapeutic support.
Every hour of therapy counts towards reducing your fines.
Who is eligible?
You may be eligible for a WDP if you have Victorian fines and are experiencing one or more of the following:
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Financial hardship
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Mental health concerns
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Family violence
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Addiction or substance use issues
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Homelessness or unstable housing
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Cognitive impairment, disability, or complex needs
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Trauma-related difficulties that make it hard to manage daily responsibilities
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, reach out — I’m happy to check your eligibility and walk you through the process.
How counselling helps reduce your fines
As a registered WDP sponsor, I can support you through the process from start to finish.
Here’s how it works:
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We have an initial chat to explore what’s happening for you and whether the WDP is a good fit.
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I apply for the WDP on your behalf through Fines Victoria.
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Once approved, you can begin counselling sessions with me — each session contributes to reducing your fine debt.
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Fines Victoria tracks your progress, and as long as you continue to engage, your fines keep reducing.
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When your fine debt is cleared or the WDP period ends, the program is finalised.
Looking to get started?
If you think the WDP might help you, your next step is simple:
Send me a message or book an initial consultation.
In our first chat, we can discuss:
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What's bringing you to therapy at this time
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Answer any questions you may have
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Begin your application (if appropriate)
Sessions are held online so no matter where you are in Melbourne, Victoria you can have access to the sponsorship.
What issues can we work on together?
Common themes include, but are not limited to:
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Anxiety, depression, stress and burnout
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Trauma and complex trauma
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Substance misuse and addiction
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Financial struggles
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Relationship issues
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Self-esteem issues
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Life direction and transitions
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Sensitivity and overstimulation
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Dealing with difficult emotions
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Developing new coping strategies
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Grief and loss
WDP Counselling Available Across Melbourne, Victoria
Whether you live in Melbourne or anywhere else in Victoria, you can access WDP counselling through Soul Village Therapy.
I offer online sessions, supporting clients in the CBD, South-East Melbourne, Eastern suburbs, Western suburbs, Northern suburbs, and all regional and rural areas including Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Gippsland, and the Mornington Peninsula.
As a registered WDP sponsor with Fines Victoria, I can help you reduce your fines through counselling from anywhere in VIC.
