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.M.130 Member of a YA couple (YA)

Definition

For the purposes of independent status YA, a person is considered to be a current member of a YA couple where the person is currently:

  • legally married
  • in a registered relationship, or
  • in a de facto relationship for a continuous period of 12 months.

Where a relationship has ended, a person can be considered to have been a former member of a YA couple where the person was previously:

  • legally married
  • in a registered relationship, or
  • in a de facto relationship for a continuous period of
    • 12 months, or
    • 6 months in special circumstances as determined by the Secretary.

The partners to the relationship must NOT have been living separately and apart on a permanent or indefinite basis. The partners must have been over the age of consent (applicable to the relevant state or territory) at the time the relationship became a de facto relationship, and must NOT be or have been in a prohibited relationship under the Marriage Act 1961 section 23B.

Example: A relationship between close blood relatives.

Act reference: SSAct section 1067C Member of a YA couple

Policy reference: SS Guide 1.1.M.120 Member of a couple

Last reviewed: