The different perceptions of literacy that inform the work of various groups working with disadvantaged groups within society were explored in a case study in which individuals providing services to low-skilled, disadvantaged clients in an outer urban area of Brisbane, Australia, were interviewed regarding their perceptions of their clients' literacy needs. The study informants included representatives of community-based organizations, including program administrators, welfare officers, community health workers, counselors, voluntary workers, and members of the wider community. The findings of the Survey of Aspects of Literacy (SAL) were also reviewed to gain insight into the area's population demographics and area residents' levels of prose, document, and quantitative literacy. The study identified a series of networks in service provision to the local community that were conscious of the implication of lower literacy skills in a plethora of clients' problems. However, the networks were found to be working under difficult circumstances caused by poorly coordinated resourcing cycles and competition for limited funding. Locally led and managed literacy programs appeared to have the best client attendance and overall endorsement of the community. (The bibliography lists 41 references. The following items are appended: population demographics of the study area; findings of the SAL; and a generic list of informants to the project.) (MN)