Centrelink

Hearing the word ‘Centrelink’ is often all it takes before feelings of stress and anxiety sweep across us. Centrelink is a very difficult and very complex system. Even professionals can find it difficult to navigate their way through, so we do not expect you to!

For many of you this may be the first time accessing Centrelink and we acknowledge that it can be a very overwhelming experience leaving you with more questions than when you first started. Centrelink also uses terminology that is unfamiliar and confusing, so if you come across something that you don’t quite understand this is normal.

The following sections are written to help demystify Centrelink by providing you with some factual information, handy ‘tips’ as well as Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) therefore making your journey through Centrelink a little easier.

Should you require further support please contact Huntington’s Victoria. We will try to assist you with your query, however due to Centrelink’s strict privacy law we are unable to contact them on your behalf.

» Frequently Asked Questions
» What is Centrelink?
» Centrelink payments
» Who to contact for help

Handy Tip 1
If possible plan ahead before visiting Centrelink by booking an appointment to see a Centrelink Social Worker or Disability Officer.
If you cannot get to your local Centrelink, you can contact Social Work Services on 13 1794.
» Find your nearest Centrelink office

Handy Tip 2
If you are receiving a payment from Centrelink, and have a Health Care Card (HCC) then you may also be eligible for other benefits such as the Companion Card, Multi Purpose Taxi Card or the Medical Cooling Concession or other utility concessions.

Handy Tip 3
Take a support person with you when you visit Centrelink. This could be a friend, family member, or professional (e.g. social worker, case worker) but make sure it is someone you trust. They can help you to navigate the system and be another set of ears to take in the information.