Increasing Income
Families may have limited options for increasing their income, but it can be worth checking that they have explored any alternatives available. These could include:
- Claiming all Centrelink payments to which they are entitled.
- Increasing hours of paid work
Some people may have the option of increasing their hours of paid work, but may be uncertain about the impact on Centrelink benefits. You can use the Centrelink Rate Estimator so that families can see the difference that earning additional money would make. - Pursuing child support entitlements
Parents may not be receiving child support payments to which they are entitled. Parents may have good reasons not to pursue child support entitlements; for example if they are concerned about the impact on their child, or that this might lead to retribution by a former partner. For some people, however, especially if time has passed since the separation, it may make sense to have another look at their entitlements.
(Income and Life Changes- Coping with Separation) - Obtaining Tax refunds and rebates
If families have been in employment, they may receive a tax refund at the end of the year.
Families who are paying for approved child care may be eligible for a child care rebate through the tax system.
(Income and Life Changes- Paying Tax)
