Media Release
Separated parents in flood affected areas encouraged to update income and care details
25 February 2008
Minister for Human Services, Senator Joe Ludwig is encouraging separated parents to contact the Child Support Agency (CSA) if their income and child care arrangements are impacted by the recent floods in Queensland.
“Parents significantly affected may be able to apply to have their child support assessment adjusted,” Senator Ludwig said.
“I encourage separated parents affected by the floods to call 131 272, or arrange to visit one of the CSA’s offices, which are in major regional cities, including Mackay.”
“I would also like to remind people affected by the floods not to self assess their eligibility for the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment of $1,000 for each adult and $400 per child and contact Centrelink on 180 2333,” Senator Ludwig said.
Child Support Agency (CSA) officers will tour parts of western and central Queensland providing face-to-face customer service in flood-affected areas.
“The CSA officers are travelling to Charleville, Emerald and Airlie Beach in coming weeks,” Senator Ludwig said.
“Parents can request a personal appointment with CSA staff to discuss their situation, receive advice, submit income estimates, update care and contact details, lodge Change of Assessment applications, objections, or discuss a payment arrangement for outstanding child support.”
“It’s important flood-affected parents know help and assistance may be available to ease their burden.”
CSA can refer separated families to help in their local area, and the CSA also has a great range of free booklets available from www.csa.gov.au or 1800 040 972 that will help families whose relationships are under pressure.”
Flood-affected residents in Mackay can visit the CSA’s Mackay Regional Service Centre, co-located with Centrelink at 28 Grandview Drive, Greenfields, North Mackay, between 8.30am and 4.45pm Monday to Friday.
CSA officers will be available for appointments at:
| Charleville: | Charleville Centrelink office, 78-80 Edward Street Tuesday 26 February between 10am and 4pm Wednesday 27 February between 9am and 12 noon |
| Emerald: | Emerald Centrelink Office, 50 Borilla Street Tuesday 4 March between 9am and 4.45pm Wednesday 5 March between 9am and 4.45pm Thursday 6 March between 9am and 4.45pm |
| Airlie Beach: | Whitsunday Centrelink office, 224 Shute Harbour Road, Cannonvale Wednesday, 5 March between 9am and 4.45pm Thursday 6 March between 9am and 4.45pm |
To arrange an appointment with a CSA officer, or obtain further information, phone 131 272.
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