Centrelink, social security payments and disasters

What is this resource?

This resource is designed to support community workers and volunteers connect people in disaster affected communities with legal help. It will help you identify when someone you’re helping is facing a legal problem related to Centrelink and social security payments and where to refer them for appropriate legal support. We refer to community members you’re helping as your ‘client’ throughout this resource.

This resource provides:

• links to legal information resources that you can provide to your client
• information on how to make a referral for legal help

Your client’s social security rights

Welfare Rights NSW and Economic Justice Australia have produced a range of resources that explain what rights a person has with regard to Centrelink and their social security payments.

Visit the Welfare Rights NSW website for more information: https://welfarerightscentre.org.au/information-hub/

Refer your client for free legal help

Welfare Rights NSW

Welfare Rights NSW provides free legal advice and information about Centrelink issues to anyone in NSW. For more information on how they can help, visit their website: https://welfarerightscentre.org.au/get-advice/

LawAccess NSW

LawAccess is a free government service that provides legal information and referrals, including to Legal Aid NSW, for people with a legal problem in NSW. See their website for more information on how they can help: https://www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/

Justice Connect

Justice Connect can provide free legal advice and ongoing representation in certain matters to eligible individuals, small business owners and primary producers affected by disasters like floods, bushfires, cyclones, and other extreme weather events. We may be able to match your client with free legal assistance to help with disputes or to assist them better understand their legal rights and obligations.

Refer someone to Justice Connect: https://justiceconnect.org.au/refer/