Centrelink and the Family Assistance Office recognise same-sex relationships from 1 July 2009


In 2008, the Australian Government passed wide-ranging reforms that recognise all couples, regardless of sexual orientation or gender of a partner.

From 1 July 2009, customers living in a same-sex de facto or registered relationship will be recognised as partnered for Centrelink and Family Assistance Office purposes, with entitlements and rates of payment calculated in the same way for all couples. This will affect customers receiving Centrelink and family assistance payments and services.

From 1 July 2009 customers must advise if they are living in a same-sex relationship to ensure they are paid correctly. Customers can tell Centrelink before this date and their payments will be reassessed from 1 July 2009.

Customers with children from a previous same-sex relationship, and in receipt of Family Tax Benefit, may be required to take action to collect child support.

Customer privacy is taken extremely seriously and Centrelink will ensure customer information is protected.
For more information about how these changes may affect Centrelink or Family Assistance Office customers visit www.centrelink.gov.au or call 13 6280.

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