Securing Social Security

The Federal Government has agreed to a range of special measures to ease the impact of new legislation affecting Centrelink payments to same-sex couples.

The measures are part of a package offered by the Commonwealth following lobbying from a broad coalition of more than 30 social welfare agencies and community health organisations including the National LGBT Health Alliance, ACON, the Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby, the Australian Coalition for Equality, Positive Life NSW, People with Disabilities and the Welfare Rights Centre.

Under the legislation, which comes into effect on July 1, same-sex couples will be treated exactly the same as heterosexual couples when it comes to social security benefits. However, it will cut the pensions of most same-sex couples who had previously been recognised by Centrelink as single. Some will now be paid a couple's pension rather than two single pensions and some will lose their pensions altogether.

Following weeks of negotiations with the Government, the coalition has secured a range of measures, including:

• a review of Centrelink's policies and procedures in relation to same-sex couples, including consultation with LGBT community representatives on the draft changes
• a more compassionate approach to dealing with debts that might result from the Centrelink changes
• $350K towards a national education campaign led by the National LGBT Health Alliance; informing the community about changes to 85 areas of law, including the Centrelink reforms
• $100K for the Welfare Rights Network to provide independent specialist advice and advocacy for people affected by the Centrelink changes

National Health Alliance Executive Director Gabi Rosenstreich says despite some coalition proposals being knocked back by the Government, the measures are an important win for the LGBT community.

“Ending most Commonwealth-based discrimination against people in same-sex relationships is a great leap forward for human rights in this country,” says Ms Rosenstreich.

“However, many people in our community will be worse off as a result. Complex administrative issues prevent the 'grandfathering' of the reforms which was always our preferred option. Nevertheless, we welcome the support the Commonwealth has agreed to provide and look forward to working with our government and community partners to help LGBT pensioners adjust to the changes.

Members of the community who need help or information about Centrelink payments or practice should call the Welfare Rights Centre on 1800 226 028