Centrelink Update Warning: Avoid Paying Back Overpayments (March 2025)

Centrelink recipients across Australia have been reminded about the importance of promptly updating Services Australia whenever there are changes in their personal or financial circumstances. Many Australians mistakenly think Centrelink can automatically detect and monitor their financial details or personal situation. However, Services Australia does not have this capability, and it is entirely the recipient’s responsibility to inform Centrelink of any relevant changes.

Why You Must Report Changes Quickly

Services Australia spokesperson Justin Bott explained clearly: “We can’t see your bank balances or financial details automatically. It’s your responsibility to notify us within 14 days of any change. If you don’t update us, you might receive incorrect payments, and you’ll likely have to pay that money back.”

Timely updates help prevent overpayments, ensuring recipients avoid unnecessary debt or penalties.

Specific Changes Centrelink Needs to Know

To ensure you receive the correct payments, you must quickly inform Centrelink if any of these situations change:

• Address and Housing: Notify if you move to a new place, change postal addresses, or housing situation.
• Relationships: Inform Centrelink if you marry, divorce, enter or exit a relationship, or experience a change in your family situation.
• Employment Status: Let Centrelink know if you begin working, stop working, or if your hours or job conditions change.
• Travel: Update Centrelink if you plan to travel overseas or return to Australia after being abroad.
• Income and Earnings: Regularly report any income changes for yourself or your partner, including casual, part-time, or temporary jobs.
• Financial Assets: Notify Centrelink if your savings, investments, bank balances, or property values significantly change.

Special Cases to Remember

• Bank Balances and Savings: If your bank balance or savings increase by $2,000 or more, you must inform Centrelink promptly.
• Investments and Assets: Report any significant change in value, especially if the increase or decrease is more than $1,000.
• Shares: Changes in the value of shares are automatically updated twice each year (on 20 March and 20 September). However, you must inform Centrelink if the actual number of shares you own changes.

Simple Ways to Update Your Information

Services Australia has made the process of updating your details straightforward:

• Online: You can quickly log into your Centrelink online account through the myGov website.
• Phone: Alternatively, you can use Centrelink’s self-service phone line for convenient updates.

What Happens If You Don’t Update on Time?

If you fail to inform Centrelink within the required 14-day period, you risk receiving incorrect payments. Overpayments must be paid back, potentially causing financial strain. Staying proactive ensures you maintain accurate and stress-free payments.

Need Further Help?

For more detailed guidance on updating your personal information and circumstances, visit the Services Australia website.