Every quarter you are entitled to various payments - Telephone allowance is one of them and its breaking my brain but its probably about $30-$50 per q. You may even receive Utilities Allowance (OMGness I can't think!) as well which includes a net allowance - that might only be aged pension though - sorry .

Do you get both payments in the same fortnight, or alternate weeks? Your Rent Assist is paid with the FTB component. I have absolutely NO IDEA why you would not rec full FTB B, unless CS payments would reduce it somewhat.
That woman should have been able to explain why you don't get full FTB B - that doesn't make much sense...

Did you apply for RA, send in copy of your lease etc?