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.

11.1.12.50 Payment of phone expenses under income management

Cards for fixed line phones

Under SS(Admin)Act paragraph 123TH(1)(h), expenses associated with fixed-line telephones are a priority need. There are various ways a person pays for fixed line home or community phones, such as bills or pre-paid cards. A person can therefore use income managed funds to purchase pre-paid phone cards for their fixed home phones, or for fixed line community phones.

Act reference: SS(Admin)Act section 123TH(1)(h) Priority needs

Mobile phones

Under SS(Admin)Act paragraph 123TH(1)(h), only fixed-line telephones are specified as a priority need. Mobile phones, SIM cards or credit for mobile phones are not priority needs under the SS(Admin)Act. However, they are not excluded items and may be purchased using income managed funds, if the delegate is satisfied that the current, and reasonably foreseeable priority needs of the person, their partner and dependants can also be met from the person's income management account.

Act reference: SS(Admin)Act section 123TH(1)(h) Priority needs

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