No charge for mailed Centrelink statements

[Banker]

Centrelink will not charge people for sending them statements, its minister says.

The welfare agency is trying to cut its paper use and will largely stop using letter post from July. It will instead use its website to share payment information, though customers will still be able to request paper statements if they prefer them.

Victorian Liberal MP Sharman Stone warned that Centrelink would start charging a fee of $3.50 for each letter; a claim repeated by media across the country.
Advertisement: Story continues below

She said the new practice failed to ''consider pensioners who have no computers, let alone any internet experience'', especially those who lived a long way from a Centrelink office.

However, Human Services Minister Kim Carr dismissed her claim yesterday as false.

''Yes, we are modernising; we are determined to ensure the public get the very best service new technology can provide.

''But claims circulating that it will now cost customers $3.50 for a statement are completely untrue. There will be no charge for hard-copy statements to be sent to people.''

He said the agency was also developing smartphone apps and would soon trial ''self-service kiosks'' to provide a simpler, more convenient service for Australians.

''But we are also offering interpreters, case managers and social workers … We are constantly seeking to improve the lives of the people who come to the government for assistance.''

goo.gl/bfhIx

[Banker]

Looks like the Govt have taken a step back on this..................Perhaps word got out about Banker the spitter..

[newtodsp]

Does anyone know how often Centrelink statements for DSP are issued?

I am thinking of asking for paper ones to be sent out. I am reluctant to use their online services, the risk of identity fraud is too high. Especially given the Australian government, and centrelink in particular, is not at the forefront of identity fraud. Too often we hear of glitches in systems where people's details are leaked online. I would trust the a reputable private firm far more than this government with my personal details.

Beware pensioners!

[Banjo]

I think there could be as much if not more chance of someone pinching your ID by knocking off your snail mail statement while you are overseas.
Your online account with Centrelink is password protected but when you think about it, anyone with the nouse to hack into it is more likely to have a go at Gina Rineharts bank account than some pensioners.