I was shocked to get a text saying I had a new letter from Centrelink. Had to set up myGov to check it out and had to do a compliance check as there was a discrepancy. Did the check and 13 days later I had a $2500 debt that was due in 14 days. I stressed and cried and caused major financial worries. Where was I going to get the money. After it was put forward to the debt collection company without consultation or notice I fought hard and sent all the information I had to prove I didn't work in that period I received Newstart. Eventually after many many phone calls and emails and letters I finally won and got a letter stating I no longer had a debt.
It's been disgraceful. I thought I was alone in this and feel that it has been unfair that they have targeted the honest/needing people and ignored all the people who rought the system on a daily basis and have for years. An apology is not enough, the stress, anxiety and financial hardship people have been put through is not acceptable and referring people to lifeline is a disgusting copeout to cover their asses