New Centrelink Network Launched
A range of Commonwealth Government services delivered by different departments will now be available from a new network of more than 400 'Centrelink' offices, the Minister for Social Security, Senator Jocelyn Newman, announced today.
Centrelink, officially launched today by Prime Minister John Howard, combines services previously provided by the Department of Social Security (DSS) and the Commonwealth Employment Service, including youth and study allowances.
In 1998 Centrelink will also handle childcare payments on behalf of the Department of Health and Family Services. Centrelink will continue to deliver rural assistance programs for the Department of Primary Industries and Energy.
"Centrelink simplifies the delivery of Government services so that people can access them in one place, rather than from several different departments and locations," Senator Newman said.
"As well as being more efficient and convenient for customers, Centrelink also represents an improvement in the quality of service provided by the Government."
Senator Newman said customers' rights to courteous, friendly service were enshrined in a new Customer Charter.
"Centrelink's 7.8 million customers around Australia will find the new offices a convenient, efficient place to do business, while all taxpayers will benefit from a more cost-effective delivery of Government services.
"Existing offices are being redesigned to make them more customer-friendly, with old-style counters making way for open plan offices where customers can sit down and conduct their business with staff one-to-one."
Senator Newman said the phased streamlining of assistance to job seekers, which began in May, will continue until the end of the year. In most cases Centrelink Customer Service Centres will be located in former DSS offices.
"We have also increased service options. Customers are now able to make appointments to see staff, to save time, and conduct more of their business over the telephone."