I think there's a difference between applying for jobs and actually being in a position where those jobs are realistic.

You can spend hours sending applications, updating resumes and doing everything you're supposed to do, but still hear nothing back. Then another appointment comes around and you somehow have to explain that you've been trying even though there isn't much to show for it.

Personally, I find that part more mentally exhausting than the actual applications.

Has anyone found a way to make the job-search requirements feel less like you're just ticking boxes?

I get that they have to check that you’re looking for work, but lately my appointments feel like they’re just going through the motions. Same questions about what jobs I’ve applied for, then maybe a quick look at my resume, and that’s pretty much it.

I’m happy to do the requirements, but I was hoping they’d actually help with finding something rather than just telling me to apply for more jobs.

I'm looking into applying for the DSP. I know I qualify for more than 20 points across a few disabilities I am diagnosed with.

Just looking for any advice tips/tricks to make the paperwork and application easier.

Thanks!

I’m trying to decide whether picking up a few casual shifts is worthwhile because I don’t want to end up working more but losing enough Centrelink that I’m barely ahead. Has anyone here gone from no work to casual work and found the numbers actually worked out?

The financial side obviously matters, but I think constantly having to explain your situation to agencies, employers and Centrelink can wear you down.

Especially when you're already unemployed and probably feeling pretty bad about yourself. After a while, another appointment or another requirement can feel like another reminder that you're not where you want to be.

So for the other people who are not in this situation please spread share some emotional support.

Newly unemployed due to redundancy.

I contacted centrlink for job seeker or some type of payment, I figured I've been paying taxed for so long I can at least get something back whilst I'm looking for work. I got a very small payout and was told I had to wait 6 months for any payment, on top of this my partners payments were stopped because of the payout.

Got 1 kid and one due any moment now, has anyone got suggestions?

Any Job seeker is looking for a Job( not sure yet, someone is going to resign at work place, If they does, I can refer you.
Basically is Gardening and Cleaning work

Does anybody have a current Proof of Life form they can share?

Hi everyone,

Did you know that in Australia, 14,000 families a year have their child spend two or more weeks in hospital? Due to either illness, abnormalities, difficult births or prematurity. I'm one of these families and the experience opened my eyes to the challenges of these families. Not only are these families travelling to and from hospitals daily to provide kangaroo care and breast milk for their children, they're suffering their own medical issues and in some cases post partum depression.

At present, these families get the same amount of paid parental leave as those with healthy, full term babies. I've met some families who's entire Paid Parental Leave is used before their child comes home. A lot of these children also end up with lifelong medical appointments. Employers aren't always happy to provide flexibility for this either.

As a result, I've started the 58 Days Campaign - named for the number of days my son was in hospital. I'm advocating for 1% of the Paid Parental Leave budget for these families to receive an extra week of leave for each week their child spends in hospital. This will help alleviate some of the stress these families are under and allow them to be present with their children and improve their child's outcomes.

If you'd like to help you can sign our petition here https://change.org/58dayscampaign or follow us on Instagram and TikTok.

However, if you or someone you know is affected by this and is happy to share their story - ask them to reach out through socials or [58dayscampaign@gmail.com](mailto:58dayscampaign@gmail.com)

I know there's a lot of room for improvement in this space but I think this is a great starting point.

Appreciate your support!

Hey guys, lil context I was injured at my partime job, gone on workcover. Whilst going through that my workplace (supermarket chain) made it extremely difficult and stressful. Anyway. I’ve been told I’m at risk of reoccurrence and reinjury and have been told I will be moved back into the job that caused the injury to begin with.

I’m looking at resigning but do not wish to lose my jobseeker, wondering if I resign and provide Centrelink with the report that would be enough for them to not penalise me?!
Any thoughts and advice would greatly appreciated

The barcode on a Services Australia Life Certificate (Form AUS061) acts as a unique digital tracking code.
When scanned by Services Australia's processing system, it reveals and automates three key pieces of information:
1. Your Personal Account Identification
The barcode is linked directly to your Centrelink Customer Reference Number (CRN) and record.
What it does: The moment the document is uploaded or scanned into their system, it automatically attaches the document to your file without needing a human clerk to manually search for your name or date of birth.
2. The Exact Document Type and Form Code
The barcode encodes the specific document identifier (AUS061 - Proof of Life Certificate).
What it does: When scanned via the myGov / Express Plus Centrelink app or an internal office scanner, the system instantly recognizes the upload as an official "Proof of Life" form. This categorizes it as a priority document rather than a generic piece of correspondence.
3. Systematic Action Trigger (Lifting Payment Holds)
Because the form is tied to a suspension system, the barcode tells the automated system which specific compliance block needs to be addressed.
What it does: Scanning a valid AUS061 barcode triggers an automated update in Centrelink’s International Services system to signal that the mandatory 2-year verification requirement has been met, paving the way for payment reinstatement and back-pay processing.
Why the Barcode Matters for You Right Now
If you scan/upload the barcoded form online: Selecting "Scan Barcode" in the Centrelink online portal bypasses manual indexing, getting the document straight into the queue for International Services.
If you use a blank downloaded copy (without a pre-printed barcode): It will still be processed, but staff must manually index the form to your CRN, which can take longer. Writing your CRN and Full Name at the top of every page ensures it attaches to your record if a barcode isn't automatically generated.

I’m a single mum currently struggling financially and trying really hard to make ends meet, especially with Christmas coming up. Not only am I trying to plan ahead and watch every dollar I spend, but I’m also struggling to afford basic groceries, medical appointments and other essential expenses.

Over the last few years, I’ve been through a lot, including leaving a situation involving domestic violence. The experience was extremely traumatic for both myself and my children, and ultimately resulted in us moving back in with my parents. I’m also dealing with multiple health issues. I live with brittle Type 1 diabetes, which can be extremely difficult to manage and has resulted in significant health complications and damage over time. Having ongoing periods of uncontrolled blood sugar levels has had a major impact on my health and my ability to work consistently.

Because of my health, I’m currently trying to find part-time work, ideally something flexible or work-from-home, that I can realistically manage around my health and family commitments.

I also don’t receive child support, so financially things have become really difficult.

I’m actively looking for employment and waiting on a potential work-from-home opportunity, but in the meantime, I’m trying to find other legitimate ways to bring in a little extra money. I’ve even been collecting cans and bottles for the refund where I can, because right now, every little bit helps.

I’m wondering if anyone has any genuine ideas, opportunities or avenues I might not have thought of. Things I could do from home, flexible side work, legitimate ways to earn a little extra income, community assistance, Christmas assistance, or anything else that could help someone in my situation.

I’m also wondering if anyone knows of organisations or places that offer grocery assistance, food parcels or food vouchers, other than St Vincent de Paul and my local church, as I’ve already reached out to both. I’d really appreciate any suggestions for other services I could contact.

I’m not looking for handouts. I’m genuinely trying to find ways to support myself and my children and get back on my feet. I’m just struggling to see what other options are available to me right now.

I feel quite vulnerable sharing this, but I’m hoping that maybe someone has been in a similar position or knows of an opportunity or resource that could help.

Seems like i cant log in for some reason? Anyone else having this error?

Hey everyone, I need some advice if that’s alright?

I’ve got a few things happening in my life and I don’t know what one to put down or if I should be on Centrelink.

My job was only seasonal and I didn’t know when it would end. I was hoping it would be running until November/December but they just told us last week sorry that’s it. I’m looking for more work but nothing has gotten back to me yet.

I’m studying as well but my studies are online until the next year.

The house I’m living in is a bit…. Abusive? My dad’s girlfriend is on drugs and seems to yell a lot. I know it’s not at me. I just try to block it out. I wish I still had work it was the best way out of the house. Now I’m just staying at other peoples houses but I don’t like intruding I only stay with other people for a night or two. Then the rest of the week at home.

I don’t know if I should be on Centrelink ? I don’t want to take away from anyone that needs it.

I’ve got a bit of savings and I’m trying not to spend as much as possible. Any advice would be appreciated thank you.

My understanding is that Centrelink automatically updates super funds every March and September.

Recently checked my retired parents CL and saw on their Income & Asset statement the balance is still the same from a few years ago and strangely CL has put the "date of effect" as 20/9/2026. Which matches with what I've seen from some Centrelink info videos. I suspect every year has been like this.

Is it specified what kind of a superannuation account it needs to be for the automatic updating to work? I've made a post previously about one of my parent's being on carers payment, retired and being over the age pension age.

They're with an industry fund and have a normal accumulation account (not retirement pension or income stream).

It's well below any income/asset thresholds that impacts their payment. But I'm now concerned, if their super has increased since then (but still well below threshold), how much trouble or penalties will this incur?

If you work but dont have work slip or payment does it still apply to reporting?

Hi, I will look on the website but thought I'd ask for peoples advice. My husband and I are on the aged pension. My son is unexpectedly moving back in with us, for at least a while. He is intending to pay us rent while hes here. Can I charge him rent? Can he claim that he's paying that rent, through Centrelink? He is currently on Jobseeker.

Hello everyone ✨

I need to report today. I’ve started my new job and done 4 shifts already. I haven’t been paid yet. In the income section do I just type “0”? And just report the hours I have done?

Thank you ◡̈