C1999-05 Change to Commonwealth Pensions and Payments
Issued: 2 September 1999 by Department of Premier and Cabinet
This AR is archived. No replacements were suggested by the author.
Key information
- Status
- Archived
- Type
- Department of Premier and Cabinet Circular
- Identifier
- C1999-05
- Compliance
- Not mandatory
About
Commonwealth Government changes to pensions and payments will take effect from 1 July 1999 and may impact on the operation of State Government agencies.
In the 1997-98 Budget, the Commonwealth Government announced its intention to change the payment cycle of all pensions and family payments. From 1 July 1999, pensions and family payments will be paid fortnightly in arrears, all entitlements will be paid on the same day and recipients will be able to choose the day on which payment will occur. These measures will simplify current procedures and provide a more consistent and fair approach to payment types.
The gradual spread of payments away from the current concentration on Thursdays, may potentially impact on the relationship between Department of Social Security (DSS) /Centrelink customers and State Government agencies. For example, this may be relevant where DSS/Centrelink customers pay regular amounts of money to agencies, particularly where direct debit credit facilities are in place, and where agencies assist people to manage their money on a daily basis (in the case of some disability services).
An information paper is attached outlining the changes in more detail. If you would like any further information, please contact the Payment Cycles Project Manager, Gordon McCormick on (02) 6244 7516.
Please bring this matter to the attention of the appropriate agencies in your administration.
C. Gellatly
Director-General