Welfare Rights

Unhappy with a Centrelink decision?
Having trouble getting a pension or benefit?
You can appeal - It is easy and free!

Service provided:

We provide independent and free advice to people having problems with their Centrelink payments. We explain people's rights and entitlements and can assist them to appeal against decisions. In some matters we are able to represent at the Social Security Appeals Tribunal and Administrative Appeals Tribunal.
We undertake community development and education and work on law reform issues where it is apparent that there are systemic problems. We are part of the National Welfare Rights Network Inc.

The law relating to Social Security law is Commonwealth legislation. This means that the law relates equally to Centrelink clients regardless of where they live in Australia.

Geographical area covered:

We cover the Illawarra region but can also provide advice to people living in the Wingecarribee region and south coast.

Contact us:

For more information or to find out when you can speak with a Welfare Rights Advocate phone 02 42761939. Face-to-face appointments also available.

Publications:

For extensive and up to date publications refer to www.welfarerights.org.au. The Social Security handbook is also available on-line by subscription.

Information about Welfare Rights
This leaflet provides information about the Welfare Rights Service located at the Illawarra Legal Centre.
Marriage-like relationship booklet - 'Relationships and Centrelink: Frequently Ask Questions'
This booklet aims to assist people who are receiving income support payments from Centrelink. It provides information regarding a persons rights and obligations when being investigated for an alleged marriage-like relationship.

Useful Information

National Welfare Rights Network

www.welfarerights.org.au
The National Welfare Rights Network (NWRN) is a network of community legal centres throughout Australia which specialise in Social Security law and its administration by Centrelink. Based on the experience of clients of NWRN members, the Network also developes policy and advocates for reform.

Centrelink

www.centrelink.gov.au
Centrelink is an agency of the Department of Human Services delivering a range of services to the community.

Social Security Appeals Tribunal

www.ssat.gov.au
The Tribunal is the first level of external review of decisions made by Centrelink about social security, family assistance, education or training payments.

Its statutory objective is to provide a mechanism of review that is fair, just, economical, informal and quick. Applications can be lodged in writing, in person or by telephone.

Administrative Appeals Tribunal

www.aat.gov.au
The Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) provides independent review of a wide range of administrative decisions made by the Australian government and some non-government bodies.

The AAT aims to provide fair, impartial, high quality and prompt review with as little formality and technicality as possible. Both individuals and government agencies use the services of the AAT.