Centrelink recognises same-sex couples
Recent government reform on the recognition of same-sex de facto relationships will begin to affect Centrelink benefits from July 2009.
From 1 July same-sex de facto couples may have access to the following: partner concession card benefits, bereavement benefits if a partner dies, and exemption of the family home from the asset test when one partner enters nursing home care and the other partner continues to reside there.
From July, when Centrelink must be notified of the relationship, customers will be recognised as partnered and eligibility for payments will be reassessed.
For details on the changes call 13 62 80 or visit www.centrelink.gov.au/internet/internet.nsf/individuals/same_sex.htm.
