The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

1.1.W.30 Write off

Definition

Write off is the legislative term used to describe a decision not to start, postpone or stop the recovery of a debt due to the Commonwealth for a temporary or permanent period of time. For example, a debt to the Commonwealth may be permanently written off if it is not cost effective to take action to recover the debt.

Act reference: FA(Admin)Act section 95 Secretary may write off debt

Policy reference: FA Guide 7.3.1.10 Writing-off a debt

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