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.G.10 Garnishee, garnishee notice

Definition: garnishee

A garnishee is a third party who owes money to a debtor or is holding, or may later hold, money for a debtor and is given a garnishee notice by Centrelink to pay the amount to the Commonwealth instead of the debtor in relation to a debt that is recoverable by the Commonwealth from the debtor.

Definition: garnishee notice

A garnishee notice is a written notice given to a third party who:

  • owes money to a debtor (1.1.D.50), or
  • is holding, or may later hold, money for a debtor.

If a debt to the Commonwealth is recoverable, Centrelink may serve a garnishee notice to this third party requiring them to pay the Commonwealth instead of the debtor.

Note: From 1 January 2017, actions to recover a PPL debt can be commenced at any time. The former 6 year statute of limitations no longer applies.

Act reference: PPLAct section 184 Garnishee notices—general

Policy reference: PPL Guide 6.3.4.20 Debt recovery by garnishee notice, 6.3.4.80 No time limit on debt recovery action

Last reviewed: