Is there a time limit for applying?
Yes, there are time limits for some Centrelink decisions. These are listed below.
There is no time limit for other Centrelink decisions. However, you might not receive back payment if you do not apply within 13 weeks after being given notice of the Authorised Review Officer (ARO) or Subject Matter Expert (SME) decision.
You can check the Centrelink decision letter to find out if there is a time limit and what the time limit is.
What decisions have a time limit?
Family assistance decisions
You must lodge the application within 13 weeks after you receive the ARO or SME decision.
However, there is no time limit if you receive family assistance payments by instalment or if the decision is about a family assistance debt.
Paid Parental Leave decisions as a claimant
You must lodge the application within 28 days after you receive the ARO or SME decision.
Paid Parental Leave decisions as an employer
You must lodge the application within 14 days after the date of the ARO or SME decision.
Student assistance decisions, including ABSTUDY debt decisions
You must lodge the application within 3 months after the date of the ARO or SME decision.
What can I do if the time limit has expired?
For most decisions, you can apply to us to extend the time limit to lodge your application. You should apply in writing and include reasons why the application is late. You can do this by sending us an email or letter.
We will only start the review if we decide to extend the time limit.
If you are an employer making an application about a Paid Parental Leave decision we have no power to extend the time limit to lodge the application.