What does Centrelink define as a debt?

A debt is any payment made by Centrelink to someone who is not entitled to it. Where an overpayment has been made Centrelink raises a debt against that person for the amount overpaid.

A debt can also arise in a variety of situations ranging from a person incorrectly receiving a payment through no fault of their own to a person incorrectly receiving a payment as a result of deliberate fraud.

If you are notified of a debt by Centrelink always seek independent advice on whether in fact the debt is owed. Independent advice can be sought from either Welfare Rights or the Legal Services Commission, see: Contacts. Debts can sometimes be raised in error by Centrelink, or an error may have been made as to the amount owed.