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.

8.4.2 Immediate payments

Introduction

This section contains information on the various methods of payment for immediate payments.

Differences between types of non-standard payments

It is important to understand the difference between various kinds of non-standard payments that are called similar names.

The following table outlines the differences between:

  • an urgent payment
  • a hardship advance payment, and
  • a lump sum advance payment.
Type of payment can only be made to …
An urgent payment EXISTING individuals already receiving a payment.

Explanation: All social security periodic payments can be paid as an urgent payment.
A hardship advance payment individuals being granted a payment for their first instalment.

individuals being restored to payment for their first instalment after restoration.

Explanation: Hardship advances can only be paid for a social security pension or benefit.
A lump sum advance payment an individual receiving a social security entitlement, who has received some sort of income support payment for the 3 months immediately before applying for the lump sum advance.

Act reference: SSAct section 23(1)-'social security entitlement', section 23(1)-'income support payment'

Policy reference: SS Guide 5.4.1.10 Qualification for certain benefits & PPS advance payments

Last reviewed: