really need some advice please regarding exemptions

hi all
i was wondering if any single mums on here had applied to centrelink for an exemption to child support?
i have a 2 year old and i have decided to apply
never recieved child support
will never ask ex for it due to violence
absoluetly dreading my appintment .. as i dont know what to expect
i really dont want to talk about him or think about the things he did to me
which is why its taken me 2 years to get around to doing this
i have a letter of support from my social worker
can anyone tell me please
what questions will they ask
how long will it take
anything?
thank you

Sorry cmama I can't offer any help regarding this but I do know that some of the ladies on here work for centrelink so hopefully they will see your thread and reply. Just wanted to offer big hugs and hope that they don't make it hard for you.

The social workers there are trained for this hun, it isn't something they haven't seen before. The letter from your social worker will probably go quite a long way.
Is your appt with a C'link social worker? If not I would ring and discuss changing the appt. I'm sure it's already with one, but I wanted to let you know you don't have to spill your guts to the Joe behind the counter - it's fair you deal with someone with the qualifications.

GL xoxoxoxo

Hi cmama, my name is Angela and I work for Centrelink.

If you're on Family Tax Benefit but your circumstances mean it's unreasonable for you to seek child support from your ex-partner, you can apply for an exemption. You can start this by contacting the Call Centre on 13 6150 to book an appointment with a Centrelink Social Worker -- these are professional staff who will talk with you and assess if you meet the legal requirements for an exemption.

When you have your appointment with the Centrelink Social Worker, you'll be taken to an interview room, so you can discuss the issue freely in private. The Social Worker will talk with you about your situation and your concerns about seeking child support. If you have any supporting documents, such as the letter from a Social Worker you mentioned, bring them with you. You can also bring along a friend or someone else to support you if this makes you more comfortable.

The length of these interviews can vary, depending on the complexity of your situation. The Centrelink Social Worker will also assess if you need any other assistance -- this may include a referral to another support service, if required.

These Social Workers are trained professionals and will treat your situation with sensitivity and confidentiality.

I hope this helps you

I also work there cmama and just wanted to agree 100% with Angela - maintenance exemptions can be applied in situations such as yours and you don't need to disclose anything to the customer service officer other than you wish to speak to a social worker about an exemption :)

All the best and take care,
x

get in contact with a Women's Domestic Violence Support Network, every area has one, they are pro's at that stuff, will even help and stand by you in court!