From March 20, a number of changes were made to the eligibility of the Energy Supplement criteria. There is some good news though, with those currently receiving this income support payment not being affected. The changes only apply to people who receive Family Tax Benefit or have a Commonwealth Senior Health Card. To what extent you will be affected will depend on when the supplement began and with what payment or card.
The changes only affect individuals who became eligible for the supplement from 20 September 2016. Those affected will have stopped receiving their Energy Supplement payment from 20 March 2017.
There are a number of criteria which must be met when considering your eligibility for Centrelink payments:
- If you claimed from 20 September 2016 but more than six (6) weeks after the income support payment stopped, then your eligibility has ceased on 20 March 2017.
- If you have been eligible for Family Tax Benefit or the Commonwealth Seniors Health Care Card, as of 19 September 2016, then you will continue to receive your Energy Supplement – unless there is a break in your eligibility.
These changes have taken affect and have been updated automatically. You should have received a letter from the Department of Human Services notifying you of the changes and any affect to your payment.
Should you wish to check whether you will be affected by the changes we advise you speak with a Centrelink representative or contact us to arrange this for you.
Total Advice Partners is available to assist you with all of your enquiries. Please feel free to contact us to discuss your situation and financial needs. We are happy to provide comment and advice in relation to how this may affect you and your lifestyle moving forward.
(P) (07) 3284 7875 | (F) (07) 3284 4790
