I don't think there is any Centrelink advice I can give you - BG is the expert so she would know all there is to know

I just wanted to say I think you are being incredibly generous with only expecting $50 a week. I would imagine a 16yo boy would eat that in about 2 to 3 days.

The only thing that I can suggest is that you tell him that he is responsible for all his own food and meals now. Even consider putting a padlock on your fridge and tell him to get his own. It is extreme, but sometimes we have to take extreme measures. If he is getting $400 a fortnight and has no other expenses, then maybe he needs to learn that it does cost money to eat. Not really sure what you can do about the electricity side of things, but I think that he needs to see what a good wicket he is on. I think that it is sad that he doesn't have 'parents' to care for him as most 16yo do, but most 16yo don't get given $400 a fn free and clear to spend on what they like, unless they get a job and earn it.

Just a suggestion. I think you and your DH sound like incredibly generous people and it is sad that your BIL is taking advantage of that. I hope you can work something out.