In conducting investigations into suspected fraud by wrongfully receiving benefits or failure to disclose relevant and necessary personal information, Centrelink are required to adhere to strict guidelines. If you are dissatisfied with the way that the investigation has been conducted or believe there have been errors in the same, there are further steps and investigatory processes which can be undertaken in order to review the initial investigation.
Firstly, you can apply for a review by the Authorised Review Office (ARO). This must be within 3 months of the initial investigation.
Should you remain unhappy with the result, appeals can be made to the Social Security Appeals Tribunal (SSAT). The SSAT is an independent body, run by Centrelink. The SSAT uses an inquisitorial model of review. This includes identification of issues which are relevant, a determination of the evidence required and the gathering of evidence from different parties. The SSAT must consider the evidence in detail.
How can Prime Lawyers help you?
Centrelink offences are very serious. For this reason, if you are notified that there is an investigation being carried out against you, it is very important that you contact one of our lawyers. Should you feel that an investigation against you has not been carried out appropriately or you strongly believe that errors have been made, our lawyers at Prime are able to assist you through the legal appeals process to secure a just and favourable result for you.