Support services release holiday period closure dates

CENTRELINK Medicare and Child Support services have released closure dates for over the Christmas holiday period.
The services will be closed from Christmas Day to the following Tuesday, December 25-29, as well as New Year’s Day.

Some smaller sites, including remote service centres, agents and access points, may close from December 24 and re-open on January 4, 2021. Closure dates will be advertised to local communities as they may vary between sites.

Services Australia general manager Hank Jongen said self-service options would still be available over this period.

“Our Express Plus mobile apps, phone self-service lines and online accounts are the easiest way to do business with us,” Mr Jongen said.

“You can use myGov on public holidays to apply for an advance payment, update details, lodge Medicare claims and report your employment income.

“The dates you need to report to us may have changed for the Christmas and New Year public holidays.”

Jongen encouraged people to check their reporting dates on the website to ensure a smooth process.

“If you’re due to report, you can do this early and tell us what you expect to be paid for your assessment period.

“If you report after your assessment period, we’ll pay you after you report to us. If you make a mistake, you can correct your estimate within 14 days, or when you next report.

“I encourage people to check their reporting dates on our website, through their Centrelink online accounts or via phone self-service.”

People can continue to claim Medicare benefits at their doctor’s office or using self-service. Critical services for Medicare providers such as organ donor and PBS authorities will remain available over this period.

To find out more about holiday period reporting and payment dates, visit servicesaustralia.gov.au/holidays