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Tuesday, 14 February 2006
Page: 226


Mr Kelvin Thomson asked the Minister for Human Services, in writing, on 7 December 2005:

(1)   Which services that are currently provided by Centrelink staff are to be provided by staff at Medicare offices in future.

(2)   Can he explain the reasons for the changes.


Mr Hockey (Minister for Human Services) —The answer to the honourable member’s question is as follows:

(1)   Family Assistance services, including claims for payments, access to advice and the ability to make enquiries, are being progressively made available in Medicare Offices, with all these offices having this service available by December 2006. Previously the full range of Family Assistance services was available only from Centrelink Offices.

(2)   Families will have easier access to family assistance payments, claims and advice through the network of Medicare Offices as well as Centrelink offices. In many cases the location of the Medicare Office is more convenient for families to access, for example located in a shopping centre and close to public transport.