Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following document: 8672.38a The letter to the Mayor and Councillors of Bendigo is a request for relief from unpaid council rates by residents of the Sutton Ward. The writers explain that: They are ratepayers seeking permission to work off their outstanding rates by undertaking whatever work the council has available. If they cannot clear the entire debt through work, they ask to be allowed to do at least some work to reduce the amount owed. The appeal is based on their financial hardship and unemployment. The document also includes details of individual applicants, including notes such as: W. W. Bennetts – unemployed for over two years, with five dependants. C. G. Smith, of 17 Curnow Street, Golden Square. T. R. Phillips, 44 Webster Street, unemployed for three years. The letter is signed "Yours faithfully, W. W. Bennetts." Overall, the document is a Great Depression-era petition illustrating the severe economic hardship experienced by unemployed residents, who asked the Bendigo Council to let them repay their local taxes through manual labour rather than cashbendigo, michele matthews collection, 1930s depression, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.63a This letter, dated 19 February 1934, was sent by the Bendigo Trades Hall Council and Literary Institute to the Town Clerk of Bendigo. It requests that the Bendigo City Council receive a deputation made up of representatives from both the Trades Hall Council and the Trades Hall Unemployed Association to discuss concerns relating to unemployment and relief work in the city. The deputation sought to raise three main issues. First, it advocated for men employed on government sustenance (relief) work to be transferred into permanent employment with the City Council wherever possible. Second, it objected to the practice of using sustenance workers in positions that, in the Council's view, should be reserved for permanent employees. Finally, it wished to discuss the broader situation of sustenance work in Bendigo, indicating wider concerns about employment conditions and the administration of relief labour during the Great Depression. The letter concludes by requesting that the deputation be heard by the City Council at its next meeting, scheduled for the following Thursday. The Trades Hall Council expresses its intention to attend and hear the Council's views on these matters before closing with a formal sign-off from the Secretary.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.50a This document is a brief letter dated 21 September 1933 addressed to the Station Master, Bendigo. It requests that Mrs. E. J. Fagen, the bearer of the letter, be provided with one adult second-class return railway ticket and one half-fare second-class single ticket for travel from Bendigo to Melbourne. The letter states that His Worship the Mayor (Cr. G. Tonnetts) will accept responsibility for payment of the tickets, authorising the Station Master to issue them without requiring immediate payment from the traveller. This indicates that the travel was being arranged under the authority of the Mayor's office. The correspondence concludes with a formal closing, "Yours faithfully," and is signed on behalf of the Town Clerk, reflecting the official nature of the request.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.51a The document is a dated request, 16 September, addressed to Messrs. Myer's Grocery Department. It instructs the grocery department to provide a specified quantity of food items to Mrs. Crowley, with the goods to be delivered directly to the bearer of the note. The cost of these groceries is to be charged to the Mayor's Unemployment Relief Fund, indicating that the supplies were being provided as part of a municipal relief programme for someone in need rather than as a private purchase. The requested provisions include 4 pounds of potatoes, 1 tin of plum jam, 3 pounds of oatmeal, ½ pound of tea, and 2 pounds of sugar. These items represent a basic selection of staple foods intended to support a household. The document concludes with the signature line "Town Clerk," indicating that the order was officially authorised by the local council administration on behalf of the unemployment relief scheme.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.59a This letter, dated 12 February 1934, is from the Town Clerk to the Minister in Charge of the Sustenance Department in Melbourne. It concerns the financial and administrative arrangements for the Bendigo Sustenance Office. The Town Clerk explains that approximately twelve months earlier, the Council assumed responsibility for administering unemployment relief and began paying the salary of the Sustenance Officer in Bendigo. At that time, the Mayor had been assured by the then Minister for Sustenance that, after a suitable period, the Registrar of Public Assistance would be withdrawn and their duties transferred to the Sustenance Officer. This change was intended to relieve the Council of the responsibility for funding the officer's salary. The letter states that a full year has now passed without the promised administrative changes being implemented. The Council therefore requests clarification from the Minister regarding when the proposed arrangement will take effect, expressing concern that the expected transfer of responsibilities and associated financial relief has not yet occurred.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.71a The document is a formal letter dated 26 April 1934 from the Public Assistance Committee to the Officer in Charge of the Sustenance Branch, Department of Labour, Melbourne. The letter responds to an earlier communication dated 23 April (reference B102). After considering the request, the Committee states that it sees no benefit in granting special recognition to any particular organisation, specifically mentioning the Bennigoe (or similarly spelled) Act as Counsel for men working on sustenance who have grievances. The Committee believes that establishing or recognising such a body is unnecessary. The Committee explains that grievances raised by men employed on sustenance have been resolved satisfactorily in the past without the need for a tribunal or any formally recognised representative body. As a result, it concludes that existing methods of handling complaints are adequate and that no additional mechanism should be introduced. The letter closes formally with "Yours faithfully" and is signed by the Town Clerk, acting as Honorary Secretary to the Committeebendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.44a The document contains a handwritten letter from Mrs. C. Long of 14 William Street, Long Gully, together with two official replies from the Town Clerk regarding her requests for assistance during the Great Depression. The file consists of three pages. Mrs. Long's handwritten letter, dated 20 March 1934, is addressed to the Mayor, Sir Bennett. She respectfully asks whether she could receive a pair of lace-up boots for her 13-year-old son. She explains that, because of sickness and unemployment, she is unable to afford them. After paying her rent, she has no money left for boots or clothing, and she fears eviction if the rent is not paid, noting that the rent agent has little sympathy for her situation. She ends the letter by asking for an early reply if possible. The second page contains the Town Clerk's reply, dated 29 March 1934. The letter acknowledges Mrs. Long's request to the Mayor and directs her to Mr. Betteridge at the Benevolent Asylum, where she may be able to obtain a pair of boots for her son. This response indicates that the council referred applicants seeking material assistance to charitable organisations rather than providing aid directly. The third page is an earlier letter, dated 28 September 1933, showing that Mrs. Long had previously applied for assistance. In response, the Town Clerk instructed her to visit Miss Bethune, Registrar of Social Services, at the Public Buildings, or alternatively attend the Sustenance Office at the Law Courts Building. The handwritten note "2x Requests" suggests that this was one of multiple appeals for help made by Mrs. Long. Overall, the document illustrates the financial hardship experienced by Mrs. Long during the Depression. Her correspondence reveals the difficulties faced by unemployed families in providing basic necessities such as footwear for children and demonstrates how local authorities commonly referred those in need to welfare agencies and charitable institutions for assistance.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.47a The document is a letter from the Victorian Government Department of Labour, Sustenance Branch, dated 12 June 1933, addressed to His Worship the Mayor of Bendigo. It responds to a previous letter from the Premier's Secretary (dated 2 June) and clarifies the purpose of a government sustenance scheme. The letter explains that the scheme does not provide grants for relief works. Instead, it extends the existing "work in return for sustenance" system. Under this arrangement, individuals who perform work in exchange for government assistance are entitled to receive a higher level of sustenance each week than those who do not participate in work. The central message is that the program is intended to reward participation in work rather than fund new relief projects. The distinction is emphasised in the letter through underlining, highlighting that workers receive greater weekly support than non-workers. A handwritten annotation in the margin ("do work don't work!") also draws attention to this key point, suggesting it was of particular significance to a later reader.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.56a The document consists of a handwritten appeal from Mrs. M. O’Brien to the Mayor of Bendigo, together with official correspondence showing how her request was handled by the Town Clerk and the Bendigo Benevolent Asylum. Mrs. O’Brien writes to the Mayor asking for assistance during a period of severe financial hardship. She explains that she has five young children and is unable to work because she must care for her elderly mother, who is diabetic and unfit to look after the children. She states that she receives only a small government allowance, which is insufficient to support the family. As winter approaches, she is especially concerned that her children have neither suitable clothing nor shoes to attend school. She notes that previous assistance from the Mayoress had provided clothing, but that the children still lack footwear. In her letter, Mrs. O’Brien also describes the family’s difficult circumstances. She explains that her husband had left around five years earlier and that she has had no contact with him since. She also mentions that her eldest child suffers from rheumatism, adding to the family’s hardships. She lists the ages of her five children and makes a heartfelt plea for any assistance that could be provided. The official response, dated 5 November 1934, acknowledges receipt of Mrs. O’Brien’s letter. Rather than providing direct assistance, the Town Clerk advises her to contact Mr. Betteridge at the Bendigo Benevolent Asylum, who was responsible for distributing aid from the Mayor’s Relief Fund and would assess her needs and provide help, particularly with shoes for the children. The final page contains internal correspondence between the Town Clerk and Mr. Betteridge. The Town Clerk forwards Mrs. O’Brien’s application and requests details about her case so that appropriate assistance can be arranged. Handwritten notes record information about the family, including the number and ages of the children and the items of clothing or footwear required. The document illustrates the process by which charitable relief requests were investigated and referred to local welfare organisations during the Great Depression.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.60a The document is a letter dated 14 February 1934 from the Town Clerk to Mr. G. H. Jennings, Assistant Secretary of the Trades Hall Unemployed Association in Bendigo. It responds to Jennings' earlier letter of 30 January concerning the payment of unemployed men whose working hours exceeded one full week. The Town Clerk proposes a revised payment arrangement for those affected. Instead of unemployed workers receiving one week's sustenance orders at a time, the letter recommends that the Sustenance Officer (Mr. Ryan) issue two weeks' worth of sustenance orders. This change is intended to simplify the payment process for workers who had completed more than one week's work. Under the proposed system, after receiving two weeks of sustenance orders, the workers would then be paid in cash for the balance of the month, with the amount calculated according to the time they had worked for sustenance. The letter closes formally with "Yours faithfully" and is signed by the Town Clerk, indicating that this recommendation represents the official response of the municipal authority.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.73a This document is a formal letter from the Victorian Government Department of Labour, Sustenance Branch, dated 30 April 1934, addressed to Mr. F. T. Amer, Town Clerk of Bendigo. It acknowledges receipt of Mr. Amer's communication of 26 April 1934, which outlined the grievances and concerns raised by unemployed residents of Bendigo. The letter states that the Assistant Minister in Charge of Sustenance has asked the Officer-in-Charge to thank Mr. Amer for providing this information. It notes that the representations concerning the unemployed have been received and that the information supplied will be of considerable assistance to the Department in understanding and addressing the issues raised. The correspondence concludes with a courteous expression of thanks and is signed by the Officer-in-Charge on behalf of the Department. The tone is formal and appreciative, indicating that the government has taken note of the concerns presented by the Bendigo Town Clerk. In a postscript, the writer advises that, for Mr. Amer's information, a copy of the communication has been forwarded to the Secretary of the Unemployed Ratepayers' and Citizens' Association, Bendigo. This suggests that the Department intended to keep the local organisation informed of its correspondence and response.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.83a The document consists of three pieces of correspondence from 1934 concerning the Bendigo Unemployed Association and its communications with the Bendigo Town Council about assistance for unemployed people during the Great Depression. The letters show the Association advocating for improved welfare support and the Council's official responses. In the first letter, dated 10 August 1934, the Bendigo Unemployed Association writes to the Town Clerk requesting that the Council reconsider its earlier decision regarding rent allowances. The Association argues that, with the Council's support, rent assistance should be extended to unemployed people living in country areas. The secretary appeals to the Council's sense of fairness, noting that councillors had previously expressed sympathy for the unemployed and urging them to match those sentiments with practical assistance. The second letter, dated 21 August 1934, outlines a broader list of requests submitted by the Association to the Council. These include free use of the Town Hall for a public protest meeting, clarification on when the "dole cut" would be restored, permission to hold weekly street meetings on Friday nights, better housing for single unemployed people, provision of first aid kits at relief work sites, rent allowances for unemployed tenants, payment for wet weather and public holidays on relief work (as practised by some metropolitan councils), increased firewood supplies, and improved sanitary conditions at relief works. Together, these requests reflect the Association's efforts to improve both living conditions and employment relief for unemployed residents. The final document, dated 5 September 1934, is the Town Clerk's formal reply to the Association. The Council declines several requests, including the free use of the Town Hall and permission for weekly street meetings. It explains that matters such as housing for single unemployed people, rent allowances, and firewood supplies fall under the responsibility of the Government rather than the Council. The letter notes that the Council has applied for a government grant of £100,000 to provide sustenance work, that first aid kits are already available on principal works, that payment policies for wet weather and holidays will not be changed, and that sanitary arrangements at relief works are considered adequate. Overall, the response demonstrates the Council's limited willingness to intervene directly, instead referring many concerns to higher levels of government while maintaining existing local policies.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.77a This letter, dated 19 May 1934, was sent by the Victorian Department of Labour, Sustenance Branch to the Town Clerk of Bendigo. It acknowledges receipt of the Town Clerk's previous correspondence concerning matters affecting the continuation of employment under the government's work-for-sustenance scheme. The department explains that the issue has already been referred to the Employment Council for consideration. The letter states that the Victorian Government is actively seeking a way to continue providing employment through the work-for-sustenance program, but emphasises that developing a solution is a significant undertaking. It notes that responses to a government circular have been received from municipalities across Victoria, and that all of this information must be assessed before the government can establish a definite policy or approve additional expenditure from the Unemployment Relief Taxation fund. The department also explains that it is not possible to deal with Bendigo's concerns on an individual basis because decisions must be made in the context of statewide planning. The Acting Officer-in-Charge assures the Town Clerk that every effort is being made to avoid unnecessary delays and closes the letter with a formal expression of thanks and reassurance.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.48a The document is a series of four pieces of correspondence from September 1933 concerning an appeal by E. Hughes of Bendigo after his government sustenance (relief payments) had been stopped. The letters document the appeal process, the consideration of his case by the local Public Assistance Committee, and the eventual temporary reinstatement of relief. The first letter is a handwritten appeal from E. Hughes to the Relief Committee in Bendigo. Hughes explains that, after investigating the reasons his sustenance had been cancelled, he believes the decision was based on inaccurate information about his financial circumstances. He argues that he owns no property of significant value, apart from essential household items, and asks the committee to reconsider its decision. Hughes also expresses concern that false or misleading statements may have influenced the authorities and requests a personal interview so he can explain his situation directly. The second letter, dated 8 September 1933, is from the Public Assistance Committee to Hughes. It acknowledges receipt of his appeal and informs him that the committee has considered his request. While a final decision has not yet been made, the committee advises that his case has been forwarded to the Minister for Sustenance with a favourable recommendation for special consideration. The third letter, dated 11 September 1933, is from the Victorian Department of Labour’s Sustenance Branch to the Public Assistance Committee. It confirms that the Minister has reviewed the committee’s recommendation and has approved the temporary restoration of relief payments in Hughes’s case. However, the approval is subject to review after one month, indicating that the assistance is provisional rather than permanent. The final letter, dated 12 September 1933, communicates this decision directly to Hughes. The Public Assistance Committee informs him that temporary relief has been granted, again noting that the arrangement will be reviewed after one month. Hughes is instructed to report to the Sustenance Office at the Law Courts building for re-registration so that his payments can recommence. Overall, the correspondence illustrates the administrative process surrounding public relief in Victoria during the Great Depression. It shows that individuals whose sustenance had been cancelled could appeal decisions through local committees, whose recommendations were then considered by the Minister. In Hughes’s case, the appeal was successful, resulting in the temporary reinstatement of government assistance pending further review. bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.69a The document is a small case file from April 1934 concerning an application for financial assistance made by Mrs B. M. Guy of Holdsworth Road, Bendigo, to the Victorian State Relief Committee. It contains Mrs Guy's original request for aid, correspondence between the State Relief Committee and local authorities, and an assessment by the Bendigo Benevolent Asylum regarding whether assistance should be provided. Mrs Guy's handwritten letter explains that her family's financial circumstances had deteriorated after her husband lost access to relief work and had been unable to find employment since Christmas. She states that the family had previously managed without asking for assistance but could no longer cope. She also explains that a fire approximately twelve months earlier destroyed nearly all of their clothing and possessions. With winter approaching, she requests help, particularly clothing and boots for herself, her husband, and their five children, listing each child's age and clothing requirements. Following receipt of the application, the State Relief Committee wrote to the Bendigo Town Clerk on 26 April 1934, forwarding Mrs Guy's request and asking whether any local organisations were already assisting the family or whether the Committee should consider the application. This reflects the Committee's practice of seeking local advice before granting relief. The Bendigo Town Clerk then referred the matter to the Superintendent of the Bendigo Benevolent Asylum, requesting an investigation into Mrs Guy's circumstances and asking whether the institution could provide assistance or recommend action before the Town Clerk responded to the State Relief Committee. In the Superintendent's reply, dated 30 April 1934, he reports that he had visited Mrs Guy and found that her husband was employed in country work at the basic wage. He also notes that the family had received £150 in insurance compensation following the earlier fire. Based on these findings, he concludes that Mrs Guy appeared to be "fairly comfortable" financially. However, he adds that if the authorities nevertheless considered her eligible for assistance, the Benevolent Asylum had sufficient clothing available to supply the family. Overall, the file documents the administrative process used by relief authorities during the Great Depression, illustrating how applications for assistance were investigated through local government and charitable organisations before a decision on eligibility was made. It also highlights the tension between an applicant's account of hardship and the official assessment that the family was not in severe financial distress despite their request for help.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.53a The letter, dated 5 December 1935, was sent by the Victorian Department of Labour, Sustenance Branch to F. T. Amer, Town Clerk of Bendigo. It acknowledges receipt of the Town Clerk’s earlier correspondence and clarifies the department’s policy on payments to men undertaking sustenance work. The department states that workers must not be paid the higher rate of sustenance unless they are actually performing work. It emphasises that payment at the higher rate is strictly conditional on work being carried out and should not be granted simply because a worker is enrolled in the scheme. The letter further advises that if work is suspended between 23 December 1933 and 2 January 1934, men who are not undertaking work during that period should receive only the lower sustenance rate. This reinforces the department’s position that higher payments are tied directly to active employment rather than periods of inactivity. Finally, the department suggests that municipalities may arrange for workers to complete additional hours before the Christmas and New Year holiday period so that their accumulated work credits will carry their sustenance payments through the shutdown. However, it makes clear that no credit is to be given for the holiday period itself. The letter closes with the signature of the Officer-in-Charge.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.61a The document is a letter dated 16 February 1934 from the Bendigo Trades Hall Unemployed Association to the Mayor and Councillors of the Bendigo City Council. It raises concerns on behalf of unemployed workers who were engaged in sustenance (relief) work and complains about the poor sanitary conditions provided at these worksites. The Association explains that workers had reported that the sanitary arrangements at sustenance works were inadequate. Although some worksites had lavatories, these facilities were considered unsuitable for the number of workers using them and were believed to be harmful to workers' health. The letter also states that some job sites had no sanitary facilities at all, further increasing concern about hygiene and health. The Association argues that providing proper sanitary facilities is an essential requirement on all sustenance work projects. It urges the City Council to address the issue immediately, emphasising that improving sanitation is necessary to protect the health and wellbeing of the workers. The letter closes by requesting an early and favourable response from the Council. It is signed by S. Jennings, Assistant Secretary of the Bendigo Trades Hall Unemployed Association. A handwritten note at the bottom indicates that a reply was made on 25 February 1934, referring the matter to the City Engineer.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.76a The document is a handwritten letter dated Thursday, 5 April 1934, from the Bendigo Cemetery. It is addressed to the person in charge of the Sustenance Work program and concerns the assignment of workers to the cemetery. The writer requests that three men—Mr. G. W. S. Smith, Wm. H. Whitting, and L. V. Bolitho—not be sent to the cemetery for further work. The reason given is that the cemetery requires "a man over these here any more," indicating that additional workers are no longer needed or that these particular workers are no longer required. The letter concludes with the writer stating that they are "through" with the men "all the time," suggesting dissatisfaction with their performance or that their services are no longer wanted. It is signed W. Jane (handwriting unclear) on behalf of Bendigo Cemetery. The page also contains handwritten annotations in pink ink, likely added later by archivists or researchers. These include notes referring to a reply dated 7 April 1934, indicating that the men would return to cemetery work during the next working period and instructing supervisors not to hesitate to remove any worker who was "not doing his bit." These annotations appear to summarise or reference the official response rather than forming part of the original 1934 letter.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.82a The document consists of two related pieces of correspondence concerning requests for charitable assistance in Bendigo in 1934. The first page is a handwritten letter dated 27 July 1934 from the Bendigo Unemployed Association to the Mayor's Relief Committee. The Association asks the committee to consider providing assistance to the widow and family of Mr. J. L. Wilson, described as a stonemason who died in the Bendigo Hospital on 24 July. The letter explains that the delegation wishes to raise this case for discussion and expresses hope that the committee will cooperate in helping what it describes as a needy family. Handwritten archival annotations highlight the worker's death and identify the letter as relating to the Mayor's Relief Committee. The second page is a typed letter dated 20 November addressed to Mr. H. F. Betteridge at the Bendigo Benevolent Asylum. It states that the Mayoress has received applications for assistance from Mrs. J. L. Wilson and Mrs. M. Hardy, and requests Betteridge's advice on what assistance should be provided. A handwritten archival note refers back to the earlier letter of 27 July 1934 from the Bendigo Unemployed Association to the Mayor's Relief Committee, linking the two documents as part of the same case historybendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.45a The document contains a handwritten letter dated 15 March 1933 from Mrs. C. Cowling of Neale & Osborne Street, Bendigo, addressed to the Mayoress, Mrs. Bennett. In the letter, Mrs. Cowling appeals for assistance in obtaining clothing for herself and her children. She explains that her family is living on sustenance payments and that her husband's unemployment has continued into its third year, leaving them unable to afford adequate clothing. She describes their financial hardship, noting that "everything seems to be wearing at once," and asks if any new or second-hand clothing could be provided. Mrs. Cowling states that she has five daughters aged between three and nine years old and a two-year-old son, expressing sincere gratitude for any assistance that could be offered. The second page is a typed reply dated 29 March 1934 from the Town Clerk. The response acknowledges Mrs. Cowling's letter to the Mayoress and directs her to Mr. Betteridge at the Benevolent Asylum, where she is advised to apply for clothing assistance. Rather than providing clothing directly, the Town Clerk refers her to the appropriate charitable organisation for support, indicating the council's role in connecting people experiencing hardship with available welfare services.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.55a This document is a letter dated 27 November 1933 from the Sustenance Office, Public Buildings to the Town Clerk regarding an application for temporary rent assistance. The writer explains that J. P. Paton of Specimen Hill has applied for assistance with rent. The Town Clerk is asked to arrange for the necessary support if the council decides to approve the application. Rather than paying the applicant directly, the letter recommends that the payment be made through the applicant's agent, who should either collect the funds from the Town Hall or submit an account for reimbursement. The letter sets clear limits on the assistance. It states that the payment should not exceed 8 shillings per week and should be provided for no more than four weeks. As the applicant's rent is 5 shillings per week, the writer suggests that authorising four weeks' rent would be sufficient to meet the immediate needs of the case. The letter concludes by noting that Mr Paton had visited the office on the previous Saturday and was calling at the Town Hall that day. It is signed by Dorothy Bethune, identified as Registrar of Public Assistance. Handwritten annotations in the margins appear to record an administrative note indicating rent assistance payments and confirm the recommendation of 8 shillings per week for four weeks maximum.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.65a The document is a letter dated 13 March 1934 from the Department of Labour, Sustenance Branch in Melbourne, titled "Supervision of Work Performed in Return for Sustenance." It addresses concerns about the supervision and efficiency of men employed under government sustenance work schemes. The letter refers to a circular issued on 22 November 1933 by the Assistant Minister in Charge of Sustenance, which stressed that workers receiving sustenance should provide a reasonable return through their labour. It argues that men who do not perform fairly should not continue to be employed and notes that the success of the sustenance work system is being undermined by poor supervision, leading to low levels of efficiency. The document states that recent investigations found little improvement in the productivity of workers in some areas. It attributes this problem not to the workers themselves but to employing bodies failing to provide adequate oversight. According to the letter, simply assigning men to work without ensuring they complete a reasonable day's labour results in taxpayers' money being wasted and is considered an unacceptable state of affairs. The letter concludes with a strong warning from the Minister, urging all employing authorities to implement proper supervision over workers receiving sustenance. It states that if sufficient supervision cannot be demonstrated, the Minister will consider withdrawing the authority of the relevant municipality to employ men under the sustenance work scheme.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.75a This handwritten letter, dated 21 May 1931, was sent from Trades Hall, Bendigo to the Town Clerk and City Council. The writer refers to a newspaper reply by Councillor Shields concerning requests made by the union in Melbourne about public holiday pay and wet weather pay for sustenance workers. The letter notes that it had been claimed these matters rested entirely with the municipal councils, and asks the council to clarify its position. Specifically, the writer seeks to know whether sustenance workers are entitled to payment for gazetted public holidays and whether they should be paid for time lost because of inclement weather. The letter also raises concerns about the transport of sustenance workers to farms. It alleges that workers are being carried in buses licensed to hold only 16 passengers, but that as many as 54 men, and sometimes 28 men in a single bus, are being transported at once. The writer argues that this overcrowding is dangerous and warns that, unless authorities intervene, they could be held responsible in the event of an accident. A handwritten archival note added in pink ink at the bottom records the outcome of the correspondence. It states that a reply dated 6 June 1934 explained that it was not the City Council's policy to pay for public holidays or inclement weather days. The note also indicates that the issue of overcrowded buses was referred to the appropriate authorities for investigation or action.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.78a The document is a letter dated 18 June 1934 from the Unemployed Ratepayers' and Citizens' Association in Bendigo to Mr. F. T. Amer, Town Clerk of Bendigo. It reports the outcomes of a special meeting held to discuss the Sustenance Act and outlines the Association's concerns and resolutions regarding unemployment relief and sustenance work. The Association's primary resolution calls for unemployed workers to receive the full amount of sustenance to which they are entitled under the Act. It also urges the Government to provide sufficient funding to the City Council so that it can continue supervising sustenance work, ensuring unemployed people have access to appropriate relief and employment opportunities. A second resolution requests that the City Council prevent agitators from interfering with sustenance works, including during lunch breaks while men are employed. The Association argues that supervisors should have the authority to keep agitators away from work sites, claiming that outside interference and worksite meetings are not in the best interests of the workers and may disrupt employment. The letter concludes by stating that the Association is compiling a list of additional public works capable of employing more workers. It notes that the resolutions have already been forwarded to both the Premier and the Minister of Sustenance, expressing hope that the matter will be resolved quickly. The letter is signed by Fred C. Sweeney, General Secretary of the Unemployed Ratepayers' Association.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.79a This document is a handwritten letter dated 26 June 1934 from Mr. Jas Peterson of 165 Victoria Street, Bendigo, addressed to Mr. T. Tilner. In the margin, there is a note indicating that it is another example of a Good Samaritan, with Peterson writing on behalf of Walter Legg. Peterson writes to recommend Mr. Walter Legg for a pair of boots being distributed to unemployed people. He explains that Legg lives at 117 Arnold Street, Bendigo, where he rents a room, and states that he has known him for approximately 38 years, dating back to their time working around the Bendigo mines. The letter describes Legg as being unable to work because he is suffering from miners' phthisis (a lung disease associated with mining). Peterson emphasises that Legg is a hardworking and respectable man whose difficult circumstances are not the result of any fault of his own. He notes that Legg had recently applied for assistance but, after attending the local asylum, was told he had little chance of receiving support because of his poor health. Peterson concludes by asking that, if possible, Mr. Tilner arrange for Legg to receive a pair of boots and send him a note at his address. The letter closes with a respectful signature from Peterson, reflecting a personal appeal on behalf of a long-time acquaintance in need.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following document: 8672.88a The document is a letter dated 30 October 1935 from the Town Clerk to Mr. A. E. Cook, M.L.A., State Parliament House, Melbourne. It explains that an exceptionally cold and wet winter caused demand for government-supplied firewood to rise well above normal. As a result, the available quota of wood distributed to unemployed people in Bendigo had already been exhausted, and no further supplies were expected to be available for several weeks. The Town Clerk states that the additional wood already distributed had been issued in good faith to deserving recipients who were in need. He asks Mr. Cook to make representations to the Sustenance Department so that authority can be granted for an additional supply of firewood. If the request is approved, the Town Clerk undertakes to coordinate with the local Forestry Offices to regulate future distributions more effectively and ensure that adequate supplies are available before the following winter. The letter concludes by acknowledging that maintaining supplies until more wood becomes available would require a significant reduction in current distributions. The Town Clerk therefore requests that, if possible, an extra allocation of firewood be authorised, stressing that such assistance would be greatly appreciated by the community. The letter is signed "Yours faithfully, Town Clerk."bendigo, michele matthews collection, 1930s depression, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.41a The document contains two related letters dated 23 June 1932 and 2 July 1932. The first is a handwritten request from C. E. Smith to the Town Clerk, and the second is the Town Clerk's typed reply. Summary On 23 June 1932, C. E. Smith, of 200 Booth Street, Golden Square, writes to the Town Clerk asking if any work can be provided so that he can pay his local rates. He explains that he has been a ratepayer for many years, but because he has been unemployed for a considerable period, he has fallen behind on his payments for the first time. Smith expresses that he is unable to pay his rates without employment and respectfully asks if the council can find him any kind of work. He closes the letter by thanking the Town Clerk in anticipation of assistance and signs it "Yours respectfully." In the 2 July 1932 reply, the Town Clerk acknowledges receipt of Smith's letter and confirms that it has been received as an application for work to enable him to pay his rates. The Town Clerk regrets to inform him that there is currently no work available. However, Smith's application will be kept on file for future reference, and if work becomes available through the Government's Unemployment Grant, his request will be considered. The letter ends with the formal closing, "Yours faithfully."bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.57a This letter, dated 30 January 1934, was sent by the Bendigo Trades Hall Unemployed Association to the Secretary of the Public Assistance Committee. It was written following a general meeting held on 23 January 1934, where members resolved to advocate on behalf of married unemployed men who were undertaking sustenance work. The Association requests that any man whose allocated work exceeds one full week should be paid each Monday for the work completed up to that point, rather than waiting until the entire period of work is finished. The letter argues that weekly payments would enable workers to better support themselves and their families during the following week instead of facing financial hardship while awaiting payment. The letter explains that many of these men were working between 80 and 90 hours before receiving any wages. Because they had no income during this period, they were often unable to obtain credit from local tradespeople, making it difficult to secure food and other necessities until they completed their work and were paid. The Association emphasises that this payment arrangement placed unnecessary strain on unemployed families. The letter concludes by requesting an early and favourable response from the Public Assistance Committee. It is signed by G. H. Jennings, Honorary Secretary of the Bendigo Trades Hall Unemployed Association, and includes a handwritten note indicating a reply dated 14 February 1934.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.62a The document is a Department of Labour, Sustenance Branch circular dated 16 February 1934 (Circular 3/34), addressed to Registrars and Secretaries of Public Assistance Committees. Its purpose is to provide instructions on the registration of unemployed men for light work. The circular explains that, following discussions between the Minister, the Labour Bureau, and departmental officials, any unemployed person who claims they are unable to undertake relief work must have their excuse assessed jointly by the Registrar and the relevant Labour Bureau officer. Their role is to determine whether the reason for exemption is valid before any decision is made. In districts where there is no Labour Bureau officer, the Registrar or Sustenance Officer is to act as the Labour Registration Agent. These officials become responsible for handling work registrations and reporting directly to the Officer-in-Charge of the Labour Bureau, Mr. R. Harris. The circular also establishes a procedure for men who are medically certified as unable to perform heavy work. Such individuals may be exempted from heavy labour and instead registered specifically for light work. While waiting for suitable work to become available, they may continue receiving sustenance payments, including higher rates where appropriate if work is performed in return. However, if they refuse an offer of suitable light work, they are to be immediately removed from the employment register and their sustenance payments cancelled. The document concludes with a signature from the Officer-in-Charge and includes an acknowledgement section for Public Assistance Offices, where Registrars are required to confirm receipt of the circular.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934

Dr Michele Matthews has been a local and social historian for nearly three decades since she first used correspondence held by the then Bendigo City Council for her Honours thesis. She is an ardent advocate for the use of local history records to tell Victorian and Australian history from a grassroots perspective. Michele’s MA thesis, ‘A forgotten “Father” of Federation: Sir John Quick 1852‑1911’ (2003), and her PhD thesis, ‘Survivors, schemes, Samaritans and shareholders: the impact of the Great Depression on Bendigo and District 1925‑1935’ (2007), both drew heavily on Bendigo and district records. Michele Matthews Collection: PHD Research - Relief during the great depression This item includes the following documents: 8672.72a This document is a letter dated 17 May 1934 from a local council to the Assistant Minister in Charge of Sustenance in Melbourne. The letter responds to earlier correspondence about the continuation of a government sustenance work scheme and stresses the urgency of a decision. The writer explains that the council is facing a severe financial crisis because it has continued operating the sustenance scheme while awaiting government advice. The council's bank overdraft has already risen by £3,500 compared with the same period in the previous year, and it is expected to reach between £6,000 and £7,000 by the end of the financial year. The situation has been made worse by the recent flood damage, which has required approximately £7,000 to restore bridges, culverts, and roads. The letter notes that the council had previously advised the government that it could not continue funding materials, supervision, horses, and drays unless financial assistance was provided. As no definite reply has been received, the council has decided to continue the sustenance work scheme for only a further two weeks. If, by the end of that period, the government has not agreed to cover the specified incidental costs, the council states that it will be forced to cease providing work under the sustenance scheme. The closing paragraphs emphasise that the council is extremely reluctant to take this course of action but argues that it has no alternative because of its financial position. Handwritten annotations on the page further highlight the urgency of the matter, with notes such as "urgent" and a comment stating that the "extreme urgency of the position" should be shown as far as the council is concerned.bendigo, michele matthews collection, letters seeking support in bendigo during the great depression 1932 to 1934