All Centrelink debt raising and new debt recovery has been paused in Local Government areas of NSW and Queensland now in lockdown.
Minister for Government Services, Linda Reynolds said the decision reflected the Government’s commitment to remaining flexible in line with the ever-changing pandemic situation.
“We understand people are still doing it tough and that the pandemic continues to have an impact on family budgets,” Senator Reynolds said.
“That’s why Services Australia is pausing debt raising and recovery for the period of the current NSW and Queensland lockdowns, and for any future lockdowns across the country.”
She said Services Australia was working as quickly as possible to implement this pause.
“If you’re in lockdown and receive a debt letter, you don’t need to take any action,” Senator Reynolds said.
“Existing repayment options will remain in place unless people would like to amend them.
“Options include pausing repayments for up to three months or reducing repayments to a level that meets their needs.”
The Minister said the easiest way to change existing repayment options was online through Services Australia’s Money You Owe tool.
“Services Australia also has a range of other supports and specialist staff such as social workers who can provide short-term counselling, information and referrals to other services for Australians in need,” Senator Reynolds said.
Services Australia’s Money You Owe tool can be accessed at this PS News link.
