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.

12.4.1 BasicsCard bank accounts

Overview

In accordance with the SS(Admin)Act section 123SU, the Secretary of DSS may determine a kind of bank account to be maintained by a person who is subject to the enhanced income management regime.

This is determined under the Social Security (Administration) (Declinable Transactions and BasicsCard Bank Account) Determination 2023 (the Determination) to be an account held by one of the nominated financial institutions.

A debit card will be provided to the holder of a BasicsCard bank account. Using the BasicsCard bank account and associated debit card, purchases can be made at over one million terminal locations around Australia. Individuals subject to the enhanced income management regime can utilise their debit card at the majority of merchants who accept eftpos or Visa and to access a range of mainstream banking functions including 'tap and go' payments, online shopping and BPAY bill payments.

The Determination also sets out some of the terms and conditions that are particular to a BasicsCard bank account, as determined by the Secretary. Individuals subject to the enhanced income management regime should also obtain the full set of terms and conditions for their BasicsCard bank account from the financial institution.

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