New guide to Centrelink payments
Victoria media release
Monday, 1 February 2010
Hamilton Centrelink has launched a fresh edition of its popular information booklets, providing a simple and up-to-date overview of the support available for people at different times in life.
The suite of booklets feature titles such as: Caring for someone? and Needing help after someone has died?, as well as Are you a parent or guardian?
"The booklet entitled Studying and training? is perhaps the most popular one at this time of year, along with Are you looking for work?, as school leavers gear up for the next phase in their lives," said Hamilton Centrelink Manager, Adam Jennings.
"This year, the first wave of the ‘baby boomer’ generation begin to qualify for Age Pension, so we expect the About to retire? booklet will become increasingly popular.
"For the first time, the suite of booklets contains a title specifically for Indigenous Australians, called Are you an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander?
"The first edition of these ‘guides’ was introduced a few years ago, to an overwhelmingly positive response. This latest edition is printed on sustainably sourced paper, and includes the clear, easy-to-read information that people have come to expect, while incorporating feedback from customers to make things even better.
"The latest suite also contains up-to-date information about changes in legislation, including the Age Pension reform changes and recognition of same sex relationships. Complementing all of the booklets is Centrelink - the basics, which provides an overview of everything."
Centrelink General Manager, Hank Jongen, welcomed the latest edition of Centrelink’s suite of booklets, saying access to the right information is the first step in ensuring a positive experience when dealing with government agencies.
"The range of services delivered by Centrelink alone is immense, and across the Human Services Portfolio we deliver around 200 different payments and services", Mr Jongen said.
"When someone’s personal circumstances change, and they need to access help, they often don’t know where to go. I encourage anyone who feels this sense of apprehension to pick up a copy of Centrelink - the basics and the guide that applies to their circumstances.
"It will provide an excellent starting point to explore the range of support available, especially to those really doing it tough, for whatever reason."
The booklets are available at Centrelink offices, online in the publications section of the website or by calling your regular '13' number in the Telephone Us section of the website.
For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink Media Contact.