Services Australia
The government agency delivering Centrelink and related payments and support for people doing it tough.
In this profile
- Explain what Services Australia is and the support it delivers
- Show how its payments and services can help people in financial hardship
- Describe the kinds of help available, including social work support
- Reassure readers that government support and information are available
- Direct readers to the official site for current details
5 min
What it is
Services Australia is the government agency that delivers Centrelink, Medicare and Child Support services. For people facing financial hardship, it is the main gateway to income support payments, concessions and related help. It also provides information about your options when money is tight.
Its services are designed to support people through different life circumstances. You can find current details on the official Services Australia website.
Who it helps
Services Australia helps a wide range of people — including those who have lost work, carers, families, students, older Australians and people living with illness or disability. If your income has dropped or you are struggling to cover the basics, you may be eligible for a payment or support you are not currently receiving.
Checking your entitlements can be an important part of steadying your finances. You can also explore your broader options on our support services guide.
What help it offers
Services Australia delivers income support payments, family and carer payments, crisis and special assistance in some situations, and information about concessions. It also has social workers who can provide short-term support and referrals if you are going through a difficult time.
While it is not a debt service, having the right payments in place can make a real difference to your budget. It works well alongside a financial counsellor, who can help you make the most of your income and deal with debts.
How to get in touch
You can reach Services Australia by phone, online through myGov, and at service centres — please check the official website for current details, including payment eligibility, phone lines and how to claim, as these can change.
For money and debt help, the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 connects you with a financial counsellor. If you are feeling overwhelmed, Lifeline on 13 11 14 is available any time.
Key takeaways
- Services Australia delivers Centrelink, Medicare and Child Support services
- It is the main gateway to income support payments and concessions during hardship
- Social workers can offer short-term support and referrals in difficult times
- Check the official website for current payment eligibility and how to claim
Frequently asked questions
Can Services Australia help if I'm in financial hardship?
Yes. It delivers income support payments, concessions and, in some situations, crisis assistance. Checking your entitlements can help steady your budget. Check the official website for current details.
Does Services Australia help with debt directly?
It is not a debt service, but having the right payments in place can ease financial pressure. A financial counsellor can then help you manage your income and deal with debts.
Can I speak to a social worker?
Yes. Services Australia has social workers who can provide short-term support and referrals during difficult times. Check the official website for current details on how to access this.
This is general information, not legal or financial advice. Details can change — always confirm current contact details and processes on the organisation's official website.
Know who to turn to
A free, plain-English directory of the regulators, courts, schemes and services behind debt and credit in Australia.