Paying back a Centrelink debt

Q: Where can I find the official rules for paying back a centrelink debt?

The official source is Services Australia. All information on this page is checked against that source and dated October 2026.

Q: Is this guide up to date?

This guide was last checked in October 2026. Centrelink rates and rules change — always verify against the official source before making decisions.

Repayment options

Deduction from your payment: The most common option — an amount is automatically taken from each fortnight's payment until the debt is cleared.
Voluntary repayments: You can pay any amount at any time via BPAY, online banking, or at Australia Post.
Tax refund garnishment: If you have a tax refund, Centrelink may use it to reduce your debt.

Negotiating your repayment rate

Centrelink must set repayments you can afford. If the standard deduction rate is causing hardship, call 132 490 and explain your situation. Bring details of your income, expenses and financial position.

Paying off the debt in full

You can pay a debt in full at any time using BPAY with the biller code on your debt notice, via the myGov app, or at any Australia Post outlet. Paying it off sooner reduces the risk of further issues.

If you cannot afford to repay

Contact the National Debt Helpline (1800 007 007) for free financial counselling. In genuine hardship cases, Centrelink can consider writing off all or part of a debt.

Questions about this guide

Where can I find the official rules for paying back a centrelink debt?

The official source for this guide is Services Australia. All information on this page is checked against that source and dated October 2026.

Is this guide up to date?

This guide was last checked in October 2026. Centrelink rates and rules change — always verify against the official source before making decisions.

Can I use this guide to make a claim?

This guide will help you understand your entitlements and prepare your claim, but you must submit the actual claim through myGov or at a Centrelink service centre. We never ask for or store any personal information.