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.

2.8.2.60 ACCS (grandparent) - annual reminder to review circumstances

Summary

The annual reminder to review circumstances only applies to ACCS (grandparent) recipients who have been receiving the subsidy for a continuous period of 12 months.

ACCS (grandparent) recipients will receive an annual reminder to review their circumstances one month before the 12-month anniversary, from the date the individual (1.1.I.90) was approved for ACCS (grandparent). This is treated as a request for information in relation to eligibility or entitlement (1.1.E.30) for ACCS as provided for under FA(Admin)Act section 67FI. This allows the Secretary's delegate to give a written notice to an eligible CCS individual requesting information about the individual's present or future eligibility for CCS or ACCS.

If the grandparent's circumstances have not changed and they confirm their circumstances remain the same, ACCS (grandparent) will continue until a change of circumstances occurs resulting in a change of eligibility or entitlement.

If the grandparent indicates their circumstances have changed, Centrelink will consider whether the change has affected their eligibility.

If the grandparent does not respond by the 12-month anniversary, Centrelink will initiate an 'own motion' review and may cease eligibility and entitlement to ACCS (grandparent). The approach to be followed is the same for any 'own motion' review undertaken, including notification of the decision and review rights.

If it becomes apparent at 12-month reminder that the grandparent is no longer eligible or has not been eligible for previous sessions of care (1.1.S.40), the individual will lose entitlement to ACCS (grandparent) and will be required to pay any amounts they were not entitled to. A letter must be sent to the grandparent advising them of the cessation of ACCS (grandparent) and outlining their review rights.

There is no time limit on how long a grandparent can receive ACCS (grandparent) as long as they continue to meet the eligibility criteria.

Changes in periods of eligibility will override the need for an annual reminder because changes in circumstances will result in a reconsideration of eligibility and entitlement.

Act reference: FA(Admin)Act section 67FI Request for information in relation to eligibility or entitlement for CCS or ACCS

Policy reference: FA Guide 5.2.1.50 ACCS - change of circumstances

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