Define a "dependent child"

Can someone please explain to me what a "dependent child" is in Centrelink terms?

Got a letter today stating that we aren't entitled to the immunisation allowance because DD isn't a dependent child.

Bit confused.

That doesn't sound right at all!

A dependant is anyone living under your roof up until, I think the cut-off is 21 (I think at 16 it then becomes based on their income, if any)

Well according to their terms and definitions booklet it is:

"Any child dependent on another person, i.e. not in receipt of 'substantial' income in his or her own right. An adult has a legal responsibility either alone or jointly with another person for the day-to-day care of the child or in another person's care and is wholly or substantially in the other adult's care. Needs to satisfy the definition of an Australian resident."

I would say your letter definitely warrants a phone call to centrelink to query why she is not listed as a dependent child! Unless your DD is earning stacks of money for you? LOL.

Yep, she's pulling the cash in by the bucketload appletree!!! :ROFL:

Thanks girls, will call them tomorrow xo

Oh some of the wording in those letters is ridiculous. I got one telling me I was not entitled to something as DS was "no longer in my care".....it had something to do with either childcare or immunisation, can't remember but he was most certainly in my care lol!

I made a call and straightened it out, it really is crappy wording and these letters are sent out automatically. I would have LOVED to be able to re-write the letter and forms when I worked there - it causes so much confusion and extra work.

It's just crazy, I agree Lulu.

Rang them this morning and as soon as I identified myself, the girl could see that something was wrong. Only prob is that they don't know why and it requires further investigation to release the money. Ho hum, $180 would've come in handy right about now, but we'll just have to be patient.