What to do if your circumstances change when you have recently settled in Australia

If you get a payment from Centrelink and you have a change in your circumstances, for example if your immigration status changes, you move house or your income changes, you need to let Centrelink know within 14 days in case it affects your payment. For more information, refer to what you need to tell us.

If you don't notify Centrelink about changes in your circumstances, you may find yourself in debt. If you are overpaid benefits, you will probably have to pay money back. If you deliberately don't tell Centrelink about changes, you could be charged with fraud. An additional recovery fee may also be imposed, if incorrect information has been given to Centrelink about employment income.