How-To Guides

This section provides step-by-step instructions for common Centrelink tasks and processes. Follow these guides to navigate the Centrelink system effectively.

Getting Started

How to Apply for JobSeeker Payment

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

• Photo ID (driver’s license or passport)
• Birth certificate
• Bank account details
• Tax File Number
• Proof of residence
• Medical certificates (if applicable)

Step 2: Create myGov Account

• Visit my.gov.au
• Click “Create a myGov account”
• Verify your identity
• Link Centrelink to your account

Step 3: Submit Application

• Log in to myGov
• Select Centrelink
• Choose “Apply for JobSeeker Payment”
• Complete all sections
• Upload required documents

Step 4: Attend Appointment

• Book and attend your initial appointment
• Bring all original documents
• Discuss your job search requirements

How to Report Income

Online Reporting (Recommended)

1. Log in to myGov
2. Select Centrelink
3. Click “Report employment income”
4. Enter income details for reporting period
5. Submit report before deadline

Phone Reporting

1. Call the self-service line
2. Have your Customer Reference Number ready
3. Follow voice prompts
4. Enter income amounts when prompted

Managing Your Payment

How to Update Your Details

Personal Information Changes

• Log in to Centrelink online
• Go to “My Details”
• Update address, phone, or email
• Save changes

Bank Account Changes

• Go to “Payment and Contact Details”
• Add new bank account
• Wait for verification deposits
• Confirm account and make primary

How to Submit Documents

Online Upload

1. Log in to Centrelink online
2. Go to “Upload documents”
3. Select document type
4. Take clear photos or scan documents
5. Upload and submit

In Person

• Visit a service center
• Bring original documents
• Staff will scan and return originals

Common Tasks

How to Check Payment Dates

1. Log in to Centrelink online
2. View “Payment Summary”
3. Check next payment date
4. Review payment history

How to Update Job Search Efforts

1. Access your online account
2. Go to “Job Search”
3. Record job search activities
4. Update employment activities
5. Save changes

How to Request a Statement

Online

• Log in to Centrelink online
• Go to “Letters and Statements”
• Select statement type
• Download or request by mail

Phone

• Call Centrelink
• Request statement type needed
• Confirm mailing address

Problem Resolution

How to Report a Problem

1. Try Online First: Use online account help
2. Call Centrelink: Speak to customer service
3. Visit Service Center: For complex issues
4. Escalate if Needed: Request supervisor assistance

How to Fix Payment Issues

Missing Payment

1. Check payment summary online
2. Verify reporting compliance
3. Check for any correspondence
4. Contact Centrelink if problem persists

Incorrect Payment Amount

1. Review payment calculation
2. Check income reporting accuracy
3. Verify personal details are current
4. Request internal review if necessary

Best Practices

Staying Compliant

• Report income accurately and on time
• Keep all documents organized
• Respond to correspondence promptly
• Attend all required appointments
• Update personal details when they change

Record Keeping

• Keep copies of all documents
• Save confirmation numbers
• Screenshot important information
• Maintain payment records
• Store correspondence safely

Getting Help

• Use online help and FAQs first
• Call during off-peak hours
• Prepare information before calling
• Be patient and polite with staff
• Keep notes of conversations

Emergency Situations

How to Get Emergency Payment

1. Contact Centrelink immediately
2. Explain your situation
3. Provide required documentation
4. Follow up on application status

Crisis Support

• Financial counseling services
• Emergency relief organizations
• Salvation Army
• St Vincent de Paul
• Local community services

Useful Contacts

Centrelink Phone Numbers

• General inquiries: 132 850
• JobSeeker Payment: 132 850
• Youth and students: 132 490
• Complaints: 1800 132 468

Online Resources

• Services Australia website
• myGov portal
• Centrelink mobile app
• Job search websites

Need More Help?

If these guides don’t answer your questions, visit our Contact page for personalized assistance or contact Centrelink directly.