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.

4.3.4 Instalments paid by other means

Summary

In some circumstances an individual may be granted an exemption from the requirement to provide bank details for direct credit. In this case, payment is made by other means.

Appropriate reasons for payment by other means

There are circumstances in which payment by other means may be appropriate including:

  • family violence
  • legal or administrative problems experienced by the individual, or
  • cultural or religious beliefs.

Each of these is explained in more detail in the rest of this topic.

Family violence

Payment by other means may be appropriate if an individual is a victim of family violence (1.1.F.15) and they are unable to access an account.

Legal or administrative problems experienced by the individual

Payment by other means may be appropriate when it is clear that an individual may be deprived of payments due to legal or administrative problems.

Example: An individual may:

  • be bankrupt, or
  • have an overdrawn account.

Cultural or religious beliefs

Payment by other means may be appropriate when it is clear that an individual does not operate an account for genuine cultural or religious beliefs.

From 1 January 2016 all cheque payments ceased for payments processed by Centrelink.

Act reference: FA(Admin)Act section 7A Bank account details or statement to be provided for claims …

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