Centrelink and Government Debt Disputes

Law Tram’s Debt and Bankruptcy Consultation simplifies the process by connecting you with licensed Australian lawyers who can offer tailored legal advice specific to your situation. This free, fully online, and obligation-free service ensures you receive expert guidance every step of the way.

Owed a Debt to Centrelink or Another Government Agency?

If you’ve received a letter from Centrelink, Services Australia, or another government department saying you owe money, it’s important to know your rights. These debts may relate to overpayments, income reporting errors, or compliance issues and not all government debts are accurate or fair. You may be able to dispute the debt, seek a waiver, or request a payment arrangement to avoid financial hardship. In some cases, the debt may be based on incorrect calculations, outdated information or flawed systems, like the now-defunct Robodebt program. Law Tram connects you with lawyers who can help you review, challenge or manage Centrelink and other government debts with clarity and confidence.

Law Tram's Legal Partners can assist with government debt matters, including:

Responding to Centrelink or ATO debt notices
Challenging debts through internal reviews or tribunal appeals
Requesting a waiver or reduction on hardship or legal grounds
Negotiating repayment plans with Services Australia or the ATO
Advising on debts from income reporting, study assistance or family payments
Explaining the difference between legal liability and system-generated errors
Supporting people affected by past Robodebt processes
Advising on bankruptcy risks or offsets from tax refunds
Representing you in hearings before the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT)
Advising on repayment obligations while receiving Centrelink payments

Why Choose Law Tram

How It Works

Confidential and Secure Questionnaire

Start by completing our secure online questionnaire. This step allows you to provide essential details about your debt notice, income and benefit history.

Confidential Legal Summary

Law Tram’s advanced technology generates a confidential legal summary of your situation while keeping your personal information private.

Review by Licensed Australian Lawyers

Your confidential legal summary is shared with our network of vetted lawyers who review your case to determine how they can assist.

Connect with a Lawyer

If a lawyer believes they can help, they will initiate a chat with you through the Law Tram platform. Your contact details remain private unless you choose to share them.

No Obligation

You are under no pressure to retain any lawyer unless you are confident in their ability to assist. Law Tram empowers you to make informed decisions.

What Others Are Saying

Law Tram User

I got a Centrelink debt notice years after I stopped getting payments. The lawyer helped me challenge it and have it waived.

Law Tram User

They said I owed thousands, but it turned out to be a mistake. Law Tram connected me with a lawyer who fixed it quickly.

Law Tram User

I’m on a disability pension and couldn’t afford to pay. The lawyer helped me apply for a fair repayment arrangement.

Legal Information Only – Not a Substitute for Advice

This page provides general legal information only. It is not legal advice and should not be relied on as such. Centrelink and government debts can involve complex rules and appeal rights. You should seek advice from an Australian Legal Practitioner before making repayments or lodging appeals.

Take the First Step Toward Resolution

Law Tram’s Debt and Bankruptcy Consultation offers a secure, efficient and supportive way to connect with expert legal help. Whether you’re disputing a Centrelink debt, managing a repayment plan or unsure of your rights, our platform helps you access tailored advice from qualified lawyers.

Start your free, confidential consultation today. Please note that Law Tram does not assist in finding legal aid lawyers. If you are seeking legal aid, visit our dedicated legal aid page for more information.

Take the first step toward resolving your debt matter with clarity and peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay a Centrelink debt straight away?

No. You can often apply for a payment plan or dispute the debt before any recovery action is taken.

What if I think the debt is wrong?

You can request an internal review and, if needed, appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. Legal advice can help prepare your case.

Can I go bankrupt because of a government debt?

Yes. Centrelink and ATO debts are provable in bankruptcy, but there are risks. A lawyer can explain the implications before you act.

What is the Robodebt scheme?

It was an unlawful debt recovery system used by Centrelink. If you were affected, you may be able to challenge the debt or join a class action.

Will this affect my tax refund?

Possibly. Government agencies can offset debts against tax refunds or other payments unless a repayment arrangement is in place.