9 ways to legally hide money from Centrelink Age Pension

[@bobwilson4195]

If you have worked for 50 years and paid tax’s , your pension is not a benefit. We paid for it .

[@mylesdickenson9060]

That's right, Menzies introduced the pension tax back in the early 1950s so if you've been employed, you've paid for and earned your pension.

[@brianohehir9515]

Yp we paid for it but has our govt invested it well for our retiredment. I bloody sure they javnt!

[@jimclarke1108]

@@brianohehir9515 Exactly

[@ianking-jv4hg]

​@@brianohehir9515 invested in Ukraine?

[@absinth64]

Except the following government’s used that money elsewhere and now there’s nothing left. Bloody thieves the lot of them.

[@MrMgblue22]

I agree with @Pixie in other countries the age pension is a given, not tested, it’s a recognition of the contribution we have made in building the country, it’s annoying that the people (politicians) who make these rules, are never means tested for their pensions!!!

[@DonFury-pi3dy]

I understand your stance on this, in the UK, aged pension isn't means tested but it is half of what the Australian aged pension is.

[@irenecakouros7640]

Tha age pension in Australia is a supplement, you are not entitled to it over a certain amount of assets.

[@DonFury-pi3dy]

@@irenecakouros7640 correct

[@spikey8085]

Politicians get big fat pensions for running Australia and Australians

[@AussiePom]

@@spikey8085 No they don't and the pension for life perk ended years ago. They have superannuation the same as the rest of us. I have a relative who works in government and they told me that politicians in Australia whether they be state or federal don't get a pension for life anymore like they used too. Many people still like to think they do but they don't.

[@victorsvoice7978]

It would be nice if all Australians had the same pension scheme as our politicians. They get a pension for life. The same pension rules that apply to most Australians. Should apply to politicians. They should not have access their superannuation fund until aged 67.

[@edwardschryvers4403]

How did we let them get away with this highway robbery

[@petehoney1]

there pension difference should be taxed 👍

[@User0resU-1]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@BaxterThewall]

Politicians' pension scheme is obscenely generous.

[@jimmyriddle5246]

Yeah that's your opinion. It's also mine but the opinion of plebs doesn't count

[@marthanewsome6375]

What sucks is my parents were able to retire at 55 no problem, but now I can't until I'm 67. I will probably drop dead by then, but guess that's what the government is hoping for.

[@88travels]

Stop whinging Work hard and invest in super

[@chrisknight8164]

It was 55 when I entered the workforce. The goal post keeps shifting!

[@88travels]

@@chrisknight8164 and so ? You have longer to work and invest and not rely on the pension

[@chrisstewart8259]

Anyone can retire at any age they choose. The issue in this discussion is the entitlement to an Age Pension. Nobody in Australia can get an Age Pension at age 55. But they can retire.

[@infinite8382]

@@chrisknight8164 cause the system is broken and it will only get worse :/

[@pixie3760]

I've always been of the opinion that if you've worked all your life it doesn't matter how much money you have everyone should be entitled to the age pension

[@AboutRetirementTV]

Maybe so, but our system is means tested and it is provided to those that are within the Income and Assets Test. So we need to work within the system.

[@pixie3760]

@@AboutRetirementTV yes, I just dont agree with the current system. It's basically penalising you for working all your life. I know we have superannuation but that's money we've basically earned. I'm sorry, the pension shouldnt be means tested, those in higher wage brackets are just as entitled as Joe Citizen in a low wage bracket. Superannuation is basically our own money that the government deigns to give back. I don't know how anyone can live on our current aged system money if they have no super. The systems flawed.

[@ljdperth4608]

You might feel that way but why take money from those who are in need when you are not. And by the way ... when you have worked all your life did you not derive any benefit from the public purse while you were working? These videos on how to legally hide assets are nothing more than a sham way to encourage those who can afford not to have a pension to diminish the pool of resources available to others. Dance around it how you want to but that's the fact.

[@A.I.-]

My parents drilled it in my head since I was young; I am NOT entitled to anything in life. Always prepare for the worse. Do not rely on anyone or the government. Because when you're relying on anyone/government and they don't show up >>> you're screwed. Grown up now; I don't expect a "thank you". I don't expect any "acknowledgement". I contribute, I give, I pay my taxes and I don't expect anything in return. I remember when I was young and telling my parents, "This is a wealthy country. Australia is the lucky country." My parents' replied, "Keep that attitude, and you'll be homeless and begging for food in the future."

[@rodbihari8799]

Remember, super is something we all pay for. It is unfair to pay twice.

[@michaelfisher9671]

This video should be called - "9 changes Centrelink are going to make to close these loopholes"

[@johnfoster7626]

The only way you can legally shelter money from Centrelink is to put it into superannuation.

[@waffle_chair9269]

😂😂😂😂

[@Ninsidhe]

@@johnfoster7626Which is the WORST place to park your money.

[@johnfoster7626]

@@Ninsidhe That is absolutely true but my financial planner told me that is the ONLY way you can legally shelter money from Centrelink. In saying that it doesn't hurt to check but he knows everything about Centrelink

[@gardnep]

@@Ninsidhe Not in my superfund

[@agnescruz12]

My opinion: I wish that our Age Pension Payment is based on how long did we actually worked and paid TAX. Some people worked hard thier entire life and saved too. If Age Pension means it is ASSET-TESTED, we are penalising those people who are frugal in their lives. Some people only worked for an amalgamated shorter period of time - and thus paid tax for shorter period of time. Some people are prioritising holiday (locally, internationally), socialising -NOT THAT THERE IS WRONG WITH THAT - however obviously were not into savings. So why are we policing and penalising those people who tried all their lives to do the right thing for themselves.

[@jonathansherlock]

The biggest issue with the asset test in my years at Centrelink was not people who had worked hard and saved. It was "that holiday house" that had been in the family for decades got suddenly revalued and now started affecting the owner's pensions. Their situation had not changed at all - from their perspective they had the same actual assets, it's just that property prices went up. I remember the project that was rolled out nationally to automatically revalue properties - the government had figured out that they would save more in age pensions reductions than they spent in property valuations.

[@paulo3245]

sweden is

[@kerilockwood7819]

You assume that all people are born equal. This is not reality. The aged pension should not be means, asset or number of years worked tested.

[@Ride_on54]

How is it we the general public have all these rules but the government employees live in a different world as far as entitlements go

[@annMarien]

What an amazing video with great explanation. I would be retiring soon in a few years and was just wondering how it is that salary earners split their pay and plan for a brighter future by in vesting. I earn quite a good sum annually and have nothing to show for it.

[@AboutRetirementTV]

Hello, I think the best idea first would be to organise a meeting to chat what the actual problem is with savings. There are so many strategies, that it is essential for you to find what fits best to your life and which one would bring the best outcome for you 😀

[@COOLARUL]

As old fashioned as it is the best thing you can do is look at your bank and credit card accounts to find out where your money actually goes. You will be surprised at how much money can be saved . I had a friend who was in this situation and his credit card was maxed out and he never seemed to have any money even though he earn’t good income. Some things that can be cut out are subscriptions that are never or rarely used, parking and speeding fines, gambling losses (this was one of his issues), overbuying food which is then thrown away when it goes bad, overspend on clothes you don’t or rarely wear, reviewing your energy and insurance plans every year (many companies charge loyal customers a higher fee than new customers). There is so much money to be saved if you simply look through where you currently spend on things you don’t need or don’t use.

[@joumanakaram8075]

Never hide, lie, cheat. You will live a lot happier and healthier. And you will have a peace of mind.

[@camwells9726]

It’s not cheating, it’s working within the standards they have set

[@davetooes6179]

As Packer said I'm happy to pay an account 1 million dollars if he can save 2 million dollars in tax. Your not lying or cheating or hiding the money. Your just making the best of ways to minimise your assets or income to get a higher pension.

[@martinkuliza]

What planet are you living on ? I mean.. As a GENERAL rule, Sure but i think you missed the point that - Centrelink are the liars and cheaters - The Government PURPOSELY makes your life difficult and extracts too much money from you FOR THEIR GAIN so... You .. Faced with the criminals , liars and cheaters Your philosophy is... Never hide, Lie or cheat LOL DID YOU THINK THIS THROUGH PROPERLY ?

[@jonathansherlock]

As an ex-Centrelink employee (I used to be a Complex Assessment Officer working in complex financial arrangements particularly in retirement), I can say this video contains solid advice. The title of the video is total click-bait, but the actual video takes you through serious issues to think through about the best use of your money in retirement. Having said that, I also agree with others that we already pay for age pensions through taxation, and it is shocking that governments have raised the Age Pension age. And a lot of this video doesn't apply if you don't have any money to begin with.

[@ToxicXY]

Why the government they lie hide and cheat us on the daily. Fuck em

[@TrickyWheelchairGirl]

Why is it their business how much money you give away.? Government over reach, yet again!

[@einfelder8262]

I'm happy to be unknown to Centrelink. When the income test for Seniors health card moves to $144,000 as promised in the election, we might just scrape in under the income test at the current deeming rates. But having to expose oneself to the probing of a junior public servant against whose "decisions" one is powerless is somewhere I never want to go. A few minor discounts are not an incentive to us.

[@einfelder8262]

@Michael Liberals promised it , Labor confirmed they would keep it. We'll know in a few weeks :)

[@ykook7000]

If the threshold is $144k then no one needs the seniors card like you said it's minor discounts Nothing of real value at all

[@nonyabusiness1939]

Would rather starve than deal with Centerlink

[@michellewentworth9862]

If you are relying on the Age Pension for your retirement then you are in for a huge reality adjustment!

[@COOLARUL]

True for baby boomers and later generations. The silent generation, who lived through the Great Depression and World War 2 were able to cope much better on the aged pension. This is the generation that threw away nothing, repurposed everything and grew their own food and kept chickens for eggs, even in suburban backyards.

[@ykook7000]

💯💯

[@Phantoma3]

Not if you own your home and plan to sell up and move to Spain.

[@COOLARUL]

@@Phantoma3 Planning on buying one of those run-down 1 Euro homes in the middle of no-where? You will not be able to handle the local bureaucracy and the lack of services for the elderly.

[@celerinanicholls9656]

​@@Phantoma3good plan if your young and healthy...most people on age pension has long list of health issues...lifetime maintenance of medications...Australia has the best health care system...better than most country...

[@graemestevenson9088]

Disgusting and selfish attitude

[@michaellincoln3739]

You forgot No 10 - hide cash at home.

[@downtoearth1950]

With the move to digital transactions it gets harder

[@primafacie5029]

The govt and banks are working hard to remove cash

[@AnneMelb2010]

@@primafacie5029 Correct and very slimy. Considering the amount of money the government wastes on stupid things they are thinking squeezing more out of the average person is the way to go. Despicable!

[@illawarriorhill70]

Cashless society is coming

[@johnfoster7626]

Hiding cash at home is not a good idea because any monies you get from wages or investments(or other income streams) will go straight into your bank account. Even if you hide money at home you still have to withdraw it from your bank account and sooner or later you will have to account for that money. Now, I'm no expert but my understanding is the ONLY way you can legally hide( shelter might be a better word to use) money from Centrelink is to put it into superannuation. Oh, yes, I forgot to mention to put some money into your property. Do a renovation or build a shed or invest in solar or some watertanks.

[@triarb5790]

Why is everything to do with retirement like trying to complete a PhD with your hands tied behind your back and a knife at your throat? Some of us are hard workers, but not rocket scientists. Despite trying my hardest I simply do not understand 95% of the unnecessarily complex financial language used. I feel stupid, scared, inadequate and insulted all at once. Every time I read anything to do with retirement, or comments from other people I start crying. I don't know what anyone is talking about and I know I'm going to be diddled out of all the things everyone else seems to be getting, just because I am so out of my depth. It shouldn't be this hard. The rest of life hasn't been.

[@AboutRetirementTV]

I agree, it shouldn't, but rules have been created and changed over so many years, this is the reason for complexity

[@VanLe-ex8hr]

Your English writting is excellent like a novelist. You're not in a group who can only understand 5% financial literacy. You just like to vent your anger at the government who has been rifted off for many many years by those who never want to pay or minimising tax whilst earning and yet want to collect unemployment benefits and pension. No goverment in any countries can last forever if giving out money without any reasonable restrictions. Read the Age every wednesday, the Q&A section, which will enhance your financial knowledge over the years. I'm from non-English speaking country, and you know how hard it is when reading financial literacy but I enjoy reading them without crying. Take it as a challenge.

[@COOLARUL]

I felt that way until 2017, The trick is to get educated. Here are some ways . Most of the large super funds have regular seminars for their members where they explain how the system works. Book yourself in and go to them. Don’t wait until you are ready to retire, go early and ask questions. Don’t be frightened to look like you don’t know anything. Remember, there is no such thing as a dumb question. That’s how I learnt about the system. Also read books on the topic (but make sure the authors are qualified to give advice, and it is specific to your country). Your local public library may have some books published after 2017 which may help you. Take your time, reread them if you have to. Your library may also have finance magazines (eg money) which covers some of the topics. Services Australia (formally known as Centrelink) also provides free seminars during the day and the evening conducted by their “financial information services” officers. Book in and go to them. Replays of some of these free information seminars are also available on the services australia website. Just type in “services australia seminars”. Even if you feel overwhelmed just keep attending and keep asking questions. Bit by bit you pick things up, you learn and you become more confident. This. is how I learnt about the super system (and I don’t have a PhD and come from a working class background). Please do it well before you are ready to retire. Having the knowledge gives you peace of mind when the day comes that you have to leave work.

[@MichaelDrury-d9w]

Knowing the system is the best way to determine how to maximise your entitlements. Its not cheating. Its using your head and brings you into line with the rich that know how to use the system to their best advantage. Leveling the playing field is not cheating or illegal. Its what we all need to do to understand how the system works. Spreading the knowledge helps the largest number of Australians enjoy their retirement.

[@johnpro2847]

all very well whilst enough tax payers are available, but they are rapidly shrinking compared to people wanting handouts from them

[@elementbeneteau1735]

These RICH people you talk about actually WORK HARD for their money. It's not gaming the system or luck.....it's hard work.

[@alenidv8916]

Not even the people who work for Centrlink understand the system. And this clip is 3 years old. The rules change all the time, every year with every new budget. Best thing to do is increase your super contributions while you work as they are before tax and not need the pension at all. It’s no longer something you have a right to, it’s just a safety net.

[@taniavallorani9336]

🤣🤣🤣

[@taniavallorani9336]

@@elementbeneteau1735😂😂😂😂

[@DavoShed]

I reckon if you’ve worked hard all your life you should spend your money in retirement before you try and cheat the remaining tax payers. I think it is silly you are showing people how to hide their assets. I have worked hard all my like and don’t need the pension. That should be every Australian’s goal. Living off the aged pension sounds like a pretty average life to me so why would you make it your mission in life. Aim a little higher.

[@grantharding8868]

Buy physical gold and silver. Silver can be sold in small amounts

[@Fanta....]

Listen to Leslie, he is funny and tells it real. silver and gold are your friend. they sit silently in the background ready to be spent when needed. they are the ultimate retirement plan. the sooner you get in on it, the better off you'll be. buy a couple ounces a week and you'll be laughing.

[@cbisme6414]

@@Fanta.... when you buy precious gems and metals your details are recorded, the government knows exactly how much you've purchased!

[@flormarinabecerraramirez8960]

Where and how can I sold silver

[@PennyEv4]

I bought gold with my inheritance. I had already declared the money and it didnt affect my pension. Since then It has gone up by $1000 an ounce. Im assuming I would have to declare any profit if I sell it

[@Raven_Poe]

My water will be worth more than your gold one day.

[@johnnybgood3909]

After age 60, you can withdraw the entire amount in your super in cash, providing you tell them you are not working. It may be difficult to hide a super balance from centrelink, but very simple to hide or claim cash was spent.

[@gregcook2932]

Should be ashamed of yourselves. Look on your tax return and check out the social services cost. Drive the country into the ground. Get a job, other than teaching people how to beg.

[@anthonynixon6193]

Family home improvement could be Solar and Storage generating power for self consumption reducing or eliminating power bills a household expense. Those on a partial asset tested aged pension may qualify for $1.50 for fortnight per $1,000 expensed what you save on power bills and an increase in pension translates into a tax free benefit which in my view is a better use of savings.

[@AboutRetirementTV]

Hi Anthony, this is a great idea, thank you for sharing.

[@banksiasong]

Disgusting and shameful video encouraging greed and gouging on the public purse by wealthier people, leaving less for the poor, homeless, and truly deserving. Australia's pension system is NON-CONTRIBUTORY. You'd be hard-pressed to find many other countries with that.

[@nickmoore6727]

in NZ all get same pension then tax etc for extra incomes dealt with. Here in Oz . Pensioners treated as crooks to get any pension. Plus put 100 in a room all have different balance sheets. Divide and conquer. No one can compare it all.

[@ykook7000]

Yeah well NZ keep going to Oz in droves trying to get social security...that loophole needs to be stopped too....not up to Aust tax payers to pay for 2 countries

[@allananderson949]

​@@ykook7000what social security are they leaving in droves to get?

[@bitcorn6541]

There is NO way you know how much you have paid vs how much you have consumed as a tax payer… esp with so many services these days being subsidised. YOU are ALL grifters in my eyes

[@christinamitrovich7554]

Option 10: have a secret and very cleverly secured hidden stash.

[@garyblack6994]

Buy silver and gold coins and "sit" on them until money is needed then cash the bullion in.

[@michaelcalder9089]

Yep that's what the Chinese and Indians do.

[@BenState]

@@garyblack6994 traceable

[@COOLARUL]

@@garyblack6994 And slowly let inflation eat away at your purchasing power. Gold and Silver have failed to keep up with inflation since 1980. I hope you have bullet proof security at your home.

[@COOLARUL]

@@garyblack6994 Fine if you want to lose purchasing power via Inflation. Since 1980, that tactic of yours would have cost you. Better off buying income producing property or shares in profitable companies.

[@charlesgustavino7085]

And I am of the opinion that only those who really need government help should receive it. You have a disgraceful hand out mentality.

[@alexlanning712]

if its legal, why hide it?

[@AboutRetirementTV]

just a "play of words"

[@Ted...youtubee]

Just remember.. Spending $5 of your own money to get $1 from the government is silly in my view.

[@georgiakerek7999]

Politicians must be dealt the same way. How dare they receive over $200k for life

[@BenState]

they don;t determine their pay

[@COOLARUL]

The Federal pollies who entered parliament after 9 October 2004 do not get those generous defined benefits pensions. They are on a defined contributions super scheme, like the vast majority of us. I am happy to be corrected, but the only modern employees I know of who still have a defined benefits pension are Victorian firefighters. There may be others but no longer any politician who enters the parliament now.

[@BenState]

@@COOLARUL Don't let their Boomer logic get ya mate. Pollies don't even dictate their pay.

[@elvirafeher4254]

​@BenState course they do. They all vote on their increase. Not one of them has stood up saying no, we don't want an increase.

[@BenState]

@@elvirafeher4254 its an independent Tribunal that decides muppet

[@kerisnarao4844]

No, don't cheat! .Its tax payers money.

[@kittykatt9163]

When I was at Uni applying for youth study allowance I had "too much" money in my account (I think it was $100 but this was 20+ years ago). The helper suggested I come back in in a couple days after I used that money to "purchase my uni books" and come back when the balance was under ***$, Back then we only needed to show current balance. She was lovely and I was very grateful.

[@AboutRetirementTV]

Thank you for sharing, yes help like this can go a long way 😀

[@johnnolang3734]

Lucky you. I went to Uni 50 years ago and there were no youth study allowances, hecs didn't exist and scholarships were few and far between. I was lucky to get a scholarship but that only paid tuition.

[@COOLARUL]

@@johnnolang3734 Didn’t TEAS exist? I know it existed over 40 years ago. Were your parents too wealthy for you to qualify?

[@johnnolang3734]

@@COOLARUL I went to University FIFTY years ago.

[@COOLARUL]

@@johnnolang3734 Just checked, TEAS commenced in 1973 which was 51 years ago. It was means tested however, based on parents income (or your income if you were classed as independent). Therefore I gather you had finished your university education prior to 1973.

[@sujeshnair28]

Too much explanation before the actual matter is explained and unnecessary videos in middle of the context.

[@alfiewashere.695]

I'm so glad I've been sensible with my money over the years to NEVER need the government in my retirement! I'd hate to have to deal with centrelink.

[@spinmyhead1667]

MY mother is an old age pensioner.She was widowed after being a home maker to a large family most of her life and left very little by my father.She receives her money every fortnight without fail and without harassment,there is nothing to fear in dealing with Centrelink relating to old age pensions.

[@alexlanning712]

to your credit

[@rogerramjet6429]

@@spinmyhead1667 your mother is a rare case. Not the norm when dealing with Centrelink. Don't get confused thinking they're there to help. That's what many others thought, before they were lied to then forced to take the Indue card. Go do some research on that to see how Centrelink are happy to help.

[@spinmyhead1667]

@@rogerramjet6429 I can only relate my family’s experience.I’d be surprised if I my mother was treated favourably compared to others.

[@alexlanning712]

@@spinmyhead1667 I dont doubt you for one second where as in my case Centrelink benefits saved me from an avaricious family

[@rainerlovesjapan9468]

Somebody said if a person wins huge jackpot in lotto, better withdraw the money and keep it in a safe place. Or else taxation office and centrelink would know about that.

[@jonahtwhale1779]

Take a trip to the casino with your relative. . You buy $x in chips, your relative buys $y in chips. Hand your chips to your relative. Bearer Cashes them in. Odd how you are such a problem gambler and your relative is such a successful gambler!

[@AboutRetirementTV]

maybe not 😆

[@graham6229]

This site is a disgrace. How to be illegal legally.

[@SuperTambo69]

The other problem with immigration and the age pension is a 40 year immigrant can immigrate to Australia and in 27 years can get the age pension, yet a natural Australian has paid taxes for 49 years (67-18).

[@COOLARUL]

@@SuperTambo69. It’s a little more complex than that. For starters that person that migrated at 40, would be required to apply for any overseas pension and if they receive one it may reduce their Australian age pension. Second both the Australian born and the Migrant may not qualify for the age pension because they would have assets in Superannuation (compulsory since 1992), which may reduce or eliminate the age pension welfare payment. This is exactly what Super is meant to do, give you a better retirement and reduce the taxpayers age pension welfare bill.

[@mrsturnbull4698]

You got to be joking doing a video Centrelink will be onto it in five minutes and I can tell you if you do this you will lose your pension if its against the pension rules.

[@AboutRetirementTV]

Have you even watched the video before making this statement? I am Certified Financial Planner, who knows Centrelink rules, and every single point listed, is also listed on Centrelink website. Each step is legitimate and legal and approved by the government and Centrelink. It is just that some people are not aware of them. So I would appreciate watching the video first and understanding rules before writing this ridiculous statement that is 100% incorrect.

[@gregshepherd489]

Hi love you talks, so clear and informative, just a comment.....most of the little inserts are annoying, ...I have subscribed with many thanks....greg

[@AboutRetirementTV]

thanks Greg, funny how every person is different and enjoys different things and consumes information differently.

[@tomasrikona4021]

There are only two ways to save. Cash or gold. Unless you're one of the privileged, anything saved in a digital form is as good as gone.

[@davidthorpe364]

Gold sounds good to me 😊

[@clareloney]

Just wondering...are you a licensed advisor? Because the rules around advice include KZbinrs. Particularly in Australia. The fines are enormous. It was on the news.

[@clareloney]

What is your AFSL number please?

[@clareloney]

I found it thankyou on website.

[@AboutRetirementTV]

@@clareloney Thank you for you comment Clare and it is good that you stay aware. Yes, in my video, I do introduce myself as a Certified Financial Planner, hence I have to be licenced to be CFP. Also in the video there is a full disclosure when the music is running, with full license information and well as general advice disclosure. Thank you for that question

[@thecelt4807]

f#ck the systems rules be free those making rules do so to benefit the top not you and i ...to win you must play by your own rules like they do at the top ...but hey if you want to do as your told thats your freewill choice to do so good luck

[@thomasneate1684]

I disagree with this KZbin. I receive a pension from Services Australia. You are allowed to have a fair bit of money in savings, I think around $130K. Centrelink have always been fair with me and the staff have been helpful. Australia's Services system is very generous and I for one am grateful! If you have so much money you need to hide it from Services Australia, Why would you need to be on a pension? I see my payment as adequate, not extravagant but it keeps me alive and doing ok! This is Tax Payers money! People who have to much money need to keep in mind, that Tax Payers, other Australians provide this generous gift to us! It has to come from the efforts of every day people! Just think about that while you conspire to rip off the Australian Tax Payer! I am grateful to the Australian Tax Payers and Government for the payment I receive and If I could afford to pay my own way I most certainly would.

[@NeilC1963]

Thanks Katherine. I have a query about the gifting of $15,000 value of car to neice (at min mark or so). I thought Centrelink had limit of $10,000 per annum so this $15,000 in one asset would exceed that?

[@AboutRetirementTV]

Hi Neil, thank you for the question, technically if you give away a car of $15,000, Centrelink will reduce your assets by $10,000 in year 1 and continue calculating $5,000 as your asset for that year, and then reduce the value of your assets by a further $5,000 in the second year. But because it is within $35,000 limit allowable for the period of 5 years, it is not treated as deprivation of assets. I hope this makes more sense now. 😀 Katherine

[@desertdaisymarie6951]

Just make sure you declare it properly because going to jail for fraud really sucks..

[@lous7382]

Thanks Katherine for your informative Program. Looks like my wife and I have to live with our Allocated Pension, and Modest, fully owned Investment Property, It's Shameful that after Contributing Paying Taxes all our working lives to our Country, we can't access any Pension Entitlements. If there was a way, I would love to know about it, I'm going to be 66.5 in Feb. next year, and my wife will reach retirement age when she is 67. Thanks again. Lou.

[@AboutRetirementTV]

Hi Lou, thank you for your message and for watching. I don't know how much above the limit you are, but if you would like to check with me if this is in any way passible "to make it happen" and receive a small part pension, or maybe to find in how many years that would be the case, email me your contact details and we can have a private chat. But as I say, it is always better to have more than not enough 😀 Katherine

[@AboutRetirementTV]

Hi Lou, how did I ever miss your message? sometimes KZbin will not advise me of the new note. Lou, if you are still in the situation of not having access to Age Pension, please contact me and we can check if there is a way to make it happen, at least as a part Age Pension.

[@prancer4743]

Enjoy your money forget that little pension that no one can life on any way 🤔😉👍

[@juliagregory5696]

many thanks im trying to get the funds out of my super fund tomorrow and then im going to call your office x julia

[@ZulcanPrime]

This isn't fair to decent elderly people who have worked hard and paid taxes. If there are wealthy senior citizens in Australia why would they receive the aged pension? What about those over 60 years old who have no assets and struggle to survive on the aged pension and job seeker payments?

[@garrymccorriston1995]

I am on age pension have allways worked generally factory work i own everything etc. I am of the opinion that a person who has paid his taxes no matter if he earned 50k or 500k a year. The ones i object to is the ones who have been on benefits most of their life , druggies, dole bludgers they are out there. Thry are treated like gods by centrelink.

[@BaxterThewall]

Disability bludgers... protected species.

[@COOLARUL]

The Parliament has never agreed with you. Prior to 1909 there was no aged pension in Australia, yet people payed taxes (mainly to the states). If you were old, could not work and had no family support, you starved to death. This is why the Aged pension was introduced in 1909, as a means tested welfare payment. It always has been a welfare payment designed to help our poor elderly. Are you are happy for Kerry and James Packer and Rupert Murdoch and the Pratt family and Gina Reinhart and Andrew Forest, all who are (or were) Billionaires to receive this aged pension welfare payment from your taxes?

[@BigAl53750]

Basically, if you are not a politician, you’re screwed.

[@jillbarrett2576]

Why not be a lifter and fund your own retirement.

[@sharonmercer3549]

I am a lifter funding my own, however what incentive is there to be a lifter, self funded retiree.

[@robynjones6831]

That would be great….. can I have all the exorbitant tax I’ve paid for 40 years back?

[@triarb5790]

I have paid tax all my working life i HAVE been a lifter. Time to be a receiver.

[@COOLARUL]

@@sharonmercer3549 Getting $95,000 in a super pension rather than $29,000 in aged pension sounds like good incentive to me. I know which one I would rather get.

[@_Zir]

Start acting your wage, the earlier you start doing this the easier life will be later.

[@AboutRetirementTV]

smart advice 😃 thank you

[@eplmait3409]

pay your taxes and do not rip the government , its not free money , just get a job

[@JJ-vc6pp]

The advice was for retirees. People who have arrived at the end of their working life, during which they paid income and other taxes.

[@jamesacland1041]

Haha, your funny....

[@Fanta....]

@@jamesacland1041 you're. get it right peanut.

[@jamesacland1041]

@@Fanta.... haha, you can't even get it right. Use your words.

[@rosssatterthwaite2750]

I was supposed to have an "interview" for an OFP (Old Fogies Payment) a while ago but I decided not to bother showing up. Mainly because when I went to their office to make the appointment I started talking about the ROBODEBT and when they'll pounce on me for forgetting to declare that empty soft drink bottle I took to TOMRA and got 10c for it. The thing behind the counter got a bit upset and semi-aggressive at me. I didn't want to say any more about it. Also, I'm not sure how they'd react to me suggesting that I should be allowed to lie like you can when applying for bankruptcy. The ATO doesn't like people lying either. But I know that AFSA think it's perfectly OK. Can't work it out...

[@kuldipsingh3959]

You're so very kind and giving in creating this video with information that most people would charge hundreds of dollars for! Thank you and I hope many blessings come your way!

[@UserHilux579]

Nanny state citizen problems.

[@irened9961]

Don't like the heading of "hiding" . It is misleading and immediately makes me suspicious of the accuracy of your advice.. The items discussed are all legal. Where's the warning that this is general info ? People must go through their total financial situation and consider the alternatives to decide what's best.

[@skatendestroy3524]

Agreed this narcissistic money grabber is a real low act of "stealing" government money she has admitted to NOT NEED!! despicable money grabbing immigrant of self entitlements!!

[@AboutRetirementTV]

Hello Irene, Thank you for many of your comments. Of course the items discussed are legal, I am Certified Financial Planner, therefore I have to be licenced to become CFP. I have been working as a licensed financial planner for over 24 years, and I understand legal requirements and regulations well enough to know what can or cannot be advised. The general advice disclosure, together with explicit listing of the licensee details are written in the slide when the music is playing in every single video of mine. The word hiding has no misleading meaning.

[@thecelt4807]

you do realise that legal like money is just a construct right ? things made up an idea purported to be real by people just like you and me .its just ideas things made up that we collectively agree mean something ..but money in and of its self is just plastic film laws simply ideas written on paper dont take it too seriously

[@Giannas1096]

You don’t have to put in the sound effects such as a car running, it only distracts. We all know what a car is.

[@bodhi9464]

Retirement Made Simple 📖 Noel Whittaker Thank you for uploading this video ~ very informative 🇦🇺💰🙏🏼

[@AboutRetirementTV]

Good to hear from you 😀

[@chrispac6264]

You said, if selling a $20,000 car for $5000 it was treated as a gift for $15,000. You said that would be okay and treated as a gift. Doesn’t that gift of $15,000 exceed the $10,000 in one year limit and therefore create a problem?

[@charlesgustavino7085]

What a dodgy piece of advice. This is the problem with society today…wanting free money. Only those who absolutely need it, should get it…

[@johnpro2847]

Centre link is another word for the Australian taxpayer who has to work every day so you can benefit from their labor. If you are desperate..fine..but many recipients are very well off .

[@donellefeltham]

Maybe now we have a New Government in power. It’s been my experience that our New Government, has always helped Age Pensioners and we have been able too live a better life. At 71, I am classed as a Baby Boomer the previous government were under the impression that all Aged Pensioners have Super but this is a myth especially for women and the Age Pension is our only income. I started work at 15 and we were told that the taxes we paid, a portion of it would go towards our Age Pension. Back then not many people went to Uni and great percentage of people then worked in factories and shops for the minimum wage. There was no such thing as the Dole so you had to find work too live. Yes it was hard work but I think it has served we Baby Boomer’s well as we now appreciate what we have.🎼❤️🇦🇺

[@robinstewart4967]

I hope this Labour Govt doesn’t do what the Labour Govt under Keven Rudd did and that was to raise the pension age to 67, having started work at 15 also I felt betrayed by Labour when now I have another 2 years of work before I can retire. Thank You Labour.

[@AboutRetirementTV]

This is lovely to hear Donelle, you are such a modest person with obvious appreciation for life and what you have. Most people concentrate on what they don't have, so this is a very positive outlook on life that you have. All the best to you and take care 😊

[@AboutRetirementTV]

@@robinstewart4967 age extension would happen regardless of the party in power. There are just too many retirees and people live longer and longer.

[@donellefeltham]

@@AboutRetirementTV Your absolutely right, people are living longer, my Sister is a School Teacher, who is retiring this year, She and her husband will be entitled to the Pension. However she is still going to work 1-2 days a week. She doesn’t feel ready to fully retire just yet, so I think, yes people are living longer but I also think they want to as she has to cut down her hours but not retire completely while they still want to work.

[@kezzatries]

Yes agreed, I can remember the pay slip that you got with the cash wage, that payslip actually detailed how much was removed for your retirement installment.

[@pkd6369]

Politicians can get a job outside government and still we pay their pention ?and we are talking big money ,,, we try to get a pention and are scrutinized the government as of TODAY we owe approx $350 BILLION TO POLITICIANS & Beauracrats in Pentions

[@thoughts7107]

very informative. Thanks. :)

[@AboutRetirementTV]

happy you found the video helpful and informative 😀

[@xrp-3698]

Rejecting these democratic views make Australians GreaT We must not allow this political feud to escalate! Don’t set precedent fo us! Your Aliases!

[@guzzimk5lemans565]

Hi Katherine, are you saying if I contribute to my younger spouse's super from my savings the amount will still be counted in my asset tests? That sucks

[@AboutRetirementTV]

Hi, thanks for watching, no, no I said that you can "HIDE" your money in a super of a younger spouse. Until she / he is eligible for Age Pension, those assets are NOT counted under Income or Assets Test for your benefit of Age Pension. I hope it makes sense now

[@guzzimk5lemans565]

@@AboutRetirementTV Hi Katherine, thank you for your prompt response. It is your comments on shuffling between supers that confused me. I took it as I can only contribute towards my spouse's super from my super. So, I can transfer fund from our savings to my spouse's super and the amount transferred will not be counted towards my asset test, right? Keep up your good works. Thanks again

[@AboutRetirementTV]

@@guzzimk5lemans565 absolutely, smart strategy. all the best

[@chrisbradley3285]

All very well transferring older persons super to younger spouses super to receive concession card. Younger retires, older dies, too much assets now sit with younger, and still alive spouse. No concession card!

[@beebee1676]

Leave the age pension for those who don't have money...why do you think taxes are so high. Leave the larger homes for families to buy instead of cramming into small over priced units bc there's a housing shortage. Yes we all "pay into the system" but there is no pension fund for the future beside superannuation, it's spent & we are in debt. We have more people than ever that are claiming benefits that weren't born here or haven't lived here all or most of their lives doing this very thing.. driving up inflation, raising taxes & creating shortages in all area's while the people who need these services suffer the most. Did you know it cost over $500,000 to pay for a room in a nursing home ! Most have to rent it... if they are lucky enough to get one.

[@noelharris8967]

......there was *absolutely no need* for inserting that screaming individual at 2:47...many folks would be listening with headphones (as I was)...and now I have ringing in the ears......

[@borisj4054]

I would like to consider the option of not having anything to do with centre Link. Would be interested in options of emigrating to somewhere outside of Australia to avoid possible death duties and living expenses of Australia. Have a foreign wife, perhaps retreat to her country. Now this is Thinking Outside the square.

[@ljdperth4608]

" "I would like to consider the option of not having anything to do with centre Link." - Then don't have anything to do with them - support yourself. Simple.

[@thecelt4807]

i relate to that mate ...been here 42 years and honestly the place is over rated ...good luck to you sir

[@thecelt4807]

@@ljdperth4608 you work your whole life pay tax and then dont want to access your cut ? your right fought for by and contributed to by sacrifice of anzacs as part of that right ...no get what is yours and have very little to do with centrelink ..there are ways but aussies are way too compliant

[@ljdperth4608]

@@thecelt4807 What a load of tripe. Invoking the spirit of the ANZACS to justify you pilfering from the pool of funds set aside for those of limited means. Frankly, I reckon an ANZAC would have been absolutely disgusted with those values .... actually!!

[@ljdperth4608]

Are you still in Australia?

[@pwagzzz]

What if you buy a financial instrument for $100,000. It pays no annual interest, and for 5 years it's redeemable value is only $10,000. After 5 years it can be redeemed for $200,000. Would this "hode" $90,000 for 5 years?

[@iandarwent1656]

Hi Katherine, love the video. Can I clarify with you how a gift of $30k to my daughter would be treated by Centrelink? Have not previously gifted any other funds. Thank you.

[@josephj6521]

Good question. 👍

[@barrymcdonald9868]

double check this ... can only gift $10k per annum, anything above that will remain to be considered an asset for the pensioner, even if they no longer hold the funds

[@mickryan2450]

Do it in cash over a period of time

[@AboutRetirementTV]

Hi Ian, the full video to answer you question is coming out on 16 June 2022. Please watch and it will make the issue so much more clear.

[@mickryan2450]

What i used to do is take out 800 here and there and hide it then silver then well u work it out

[@anthonyplayground1402]

Easy .... keep 6x boyfriend's going on the side ... you should be paying GST ;)

[@barrymcdonald9868]

Australia has a very comprehensive financial support for pensioners, eg indexed pensions, aged care packages, carer support, various and significant concessions and for many a significant superannuation nest egg. It's a great that as a nation we have been able to achieve these levels of support to help those who need it. I do however worry about the pot being raided by those who probably don't really need it

[@jonahtwhale1779]

Define 'need?

[@barrymcdonald9868]

@@jonahtwhale1779 Need>Greed

[@ljdperth4608]

@@jonahtwhale1779 Define "don't need" first ... seriously ... the take, take, take mentality is a pestilence on our society.

[@gazzaeabc3805]

I'd be more worried about corporate taxation, corruption within bureacracies, waste and inefficiency, ineptitude and lack of accountability, let alone the corporate plundering of our energy and mineral assets. Fix them and there'd be plenty for everyone.

[@wesleygordon1645]

That includes the Government!

[@AAAA-vu7fp]

I think only people who really need help should access centrelink and not the greedy ones

[@stormstation8818]

Katherine your videos are the best and most informative information relative to Australian citizens that I have found. You cover every possible angle and present the information in a very understandable way. I highly recommend viewers to take the time to watch and subscribe to your channel. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@AboutRetirementTV]

Thank you so very much, I really appreciate your comment and I am so very glad people are watching and trying to use money better and smarter, especially during retirement 😀

[@skatendestroy3524]

For greedy money grabbing rich pigs who want it all

[@alancotterell9207]

Have your wages paid automatically into a billing company in a tax haven, like the 1%.

[@fixeywong2516]

Please give advice on finical arrangement before going to age care, eg. the family house

[@AboutRetirementTV]

another great subject - noted and thank you 😀

[@waitwhat564]

She not even Australian

[@COOLARUL]

You know that for a fact? If she has an Australian birth certificate or citizenship certificate then the author is Australian. I know a lady who was born in Australia but grew up in Greece. She has a Greek accent and her Greek is better than her English (which is excellent as she studied both languages). She travels on an Australian passport. Hearing my friend speak with a Greek accent, would you call her Australian?

[@einfelder8262]

The lengths some will go to to get a free buck amazes me. A recent case is a 66yo man with a terminally ill wife lived in a $2million house, owned a $1.5million investment property and had some super, about $400thousand. He decided he deserved an age pension so sold both properties and bought a new one for $3.2million and paid ~$300thousand CGT. Bingo - he was eligible for the pension. But he's struggling to pay the rates and taxes on the new place and his wife has since died so he only gets the single pension. I advised him to stay in the house, sell the other property, pay the CGT, put $300,000 into his super and invest the remaining ~$900,000 at 5% and forget about the pension as he would be far better off - he could spend the $45,000 (no income tax split two ways) and spend the capital at will. Then there was $700,000 super providing a private pension. This man couldn't see any benefit here as he "wouldn't have a pension", but would have ~$100,000 income stream tax free. Maybe it's me that's stupid?

[@Fanta....]

Some people are just greedy disgusting human beings. Perhaps he has a terminally ill wife because karma is a bitch.

[@einfelder8262]

@Michael He's not in a nice position - can't afford the rates on his new house. But yes, his beneficiaries will enjoy receiving whatever the house fetches when the prices have fallen........ rather than the capital stable investment he could have made instead.

[@lyndarowe3441]

Too funny for words Lol🤗

[@AussiePom]

An workmate of mine retired at 65 and because he owns two houses he gets $40 a fortnight in a state pension. But one of his kids lives in the other house he owns and that kid is buying that house off him interest free at $1200 a week. They tried going through a bank and it was a legal minefield, so they do it this way and shut the banks out. The kids pays him in cash so that's another good reason to keep cash because the transactions can't be traced. They've been doing it this way for over ten years. My dad bought my house as an investment and I bought it of him the same way because it gave him an increase in his retirement income and I paid him in cash and according to our solicitor is was all legal.

[@billhackett6715]

Help relatives buy a property so they can deduct the tax losses. Can be on title or a loan registered or a gift within the rules. Centrelink must consider the legal ownership.

[@irened9961]

Beware of the gifting rules

[@AboutRetirementTV]

Hi Bill, helping your friends with some cash is treated as a loan, not gifting, unless you consider "forgiving the loan" which then creates a problem. If you are listed on the title of your friends 'property as part owner, then Centrelink will count it as your asset.

[@COOLARUL]

@@AboutRetirementTV Without paperwork, such as a loan agreement, how do you prove it is a loan and not a gift? I have seen enough conflict within families where parents consider money to help their children is a loan, but the children see it as a gift. Of course no paperwork is ever prepared or signed.

[@pierreha1964]

Why do politicians get it all and do stuff all ,if people would run a business like they run our country every one would go broke, but no politicians retire on big money and get another corporate job with all the benefits of retired politicians, something is seriously wrong here😳

[@danielphilips2226]

Again, thanks for all your efforts in making these great vids. All the very best.

[@AboutRetirementTV]

Thank you

[@missflix919]

PLEASE stop editing in those ridiculous clips. It is of no benefit to your video or message. It detracts and is annpying

[@kisbushcraftdownunder]

I spent $4000 on a solar PV system for my home 🏡 it reduced my annual power bill by $2000 and got a few extra dollars from Centrelink due to the deeming rules

[@Fanta....]

Winning!

[@AboutRetirementTV]

smart, reduced bill, help environment and more Age Pension - win/win/win

[@annettehill1372]

This woman should be reported why is she here? Hiding fromour government, she must be investigated,she cant even be understood 😂

[@alanphillips9124]

We should follow the UK pension system. If you work and pay your taxes you’re entitled to your pension regardless of your assets when you retire. It’s a simple, fairer system. It would save the Australian Government tens of millions in administrative fees.

[@COOLARUL]

We do now, it is called Supeannuation.

[@alanphillips9124]

I agree that Superannuation is an excellent system. My point was that the Aussie state pension system is overly complicated by layers of new rules and costs a small fortune to administer.

[@Stephen-oy7fl]

When navigating CentreLink for your Age Pension, bear in mind that they have access to all your financial and health records. Not listing a bank account is disaster. They look past the last 5 years for income minimisation and asset divestment. They only want people to get the Pension who have no other means of supporting themselves in retirement. They make a subjective judgement on this and the rules are really only guidelines. Once you run foul of them, its hard to ever fix it. So the time to start planning for this is at 57. But of course, if you are genuine, you will be assisted all along the way.

[@LisaGayleDE]

They do not have access to your financial or medical records.

[@TechnikMeister2]

@@LisaGayleDE Yes they do. When you complete the application, you agree to the terms and conditions and yes, that allows them to look at your bank account. The MyAged Care app also permits this. I have seen the screen personally at a CentreLink office because they were reviewing my rent assistance and that I had less than $5k in cash. But if you are genuinely in need of the Pension, that should not be a problem, would it? The ATO can also look into your bank account as well, so please give the correct advice. When I linked my Centrelink Pension to MyAged Care, its a requirement that your doctor has to send them a report on what regular medications you take and what chronic illnesses you have that could affect your care later on. Again, by agreeing to the Ts&Cs, they can access MyHealthRecord to verify it. They did. I got an email to say that for a kidney condition I listed, they noted it had been resolved in recent tests, and that it need not be listed. I had to do a new on line form. That changed my assessment. To navigate the Age Pension, it's best to look at it from CentreLinks perspective. You only experience it if you apply, interact and answer queries. They see it as a catch net, not an automatic entitlement. They can detect restructuring immediately. It's why you can lose it if you take too many overseas holidays. You must tell them. It's a truth test all this, because they have all the info already. They consider being able to afford trips abroad counters the spirit of the Pension which they see as being for those who fall through the Superannuation gaps. My friend had a bank account in the UK which she unwisely didn't tell them about. She had visited her sister twice in the previous 6 months. They added the estimated costs to her cash allowance. You have to report any change of over $1000.They cancelled her Age Pension. So expect scrutiny and tell them everything.

[@LisaGayleDE]

@@TechnikMeister2 sorry you are wrong. I work with Centrelink. Your bank details are what you tell them they do not have access to your bank account.

[@LisaGayleDE]

@@TechnikMeister2 some superannuation funds do sent Centrelink the latest statements that is true.

[@COOLARUL]

Here is an idea, how about building enough income producing assets so you don’t need to rely on Centrelink. If you end up on the aged pension you have failed.

[@MK-lm6hb]

Most people are not able to save enough to be able to live entirely on their savings in retirement. If you know how it can be done please share your ideas with us.

[@COOLARUL]

@@MK-lm6hb Most people are not shown how to save and invest enough. I was never a high wage earner, but managed to save enough. Many middle class people over-spend which is why they never save enough. As an example your average family throws away $3,000 to $4,000 worth of food every year. That is $3,000 worth of investible assets thrown away every year.

[@MK-lm6hb]

@@COOLARUL Investments are not as beneficial as most people believe. Australian shares generate income of 3% or less per annum which is less than the current rate of inflation. To live from one's own savings in retirement, one would need to save around $600,000 which is equivalent to the age pension paid by the state for 20 years. Not many people are able to save such a big sum of money.

[@COOLARUL]

@@MK-lm6hb Rubbish! Just invest 50% of your savings in a low cost Aust index fund (for the 4% income plus some growth) and the other 50% in an index international fund (for growth). Re-invest and dividends and distributions and do nothing else until you reach age pension age. Do the same with your superannuation, invest in a low cost indexing option. Don’t touch either for the next 40 years. Then retire wealthy and convert your super into a pension and stop reinvesting the dividends outside of super. You will find you won’t get an aged pension because you fail both the income and assets test, but who cares if you are earning 3 times the aged pension. The trick is to set it up when you are young and wait 35-40 year. Let the magic of compound interest do its work. The problem us most people are too impatient and want to get rich quick. Get rich slow works. That’s what I did and I will never qualify for the aged pension and am happy about it.

[@COOLARUL]

One other tip; never get a credit card or use afterpay. If you don’t have the money that means you can’t afford it.

[@anthonynixon6193]

When it comes to gifting does it just apply to one five-year [$30,000] period or multiple five-year periods?

[@AboutRetirementTV]

this is the total allowable limit with no negative impact on your Age Pension, and it does not matter if it has been gifted in one lot or many.

[@dogdooish]

Hiding your assets, in my humble opinion is tantamount to thievery, it also brings on harder laws pertaining to assets!

[@wendyshoowaiching4161]

Anonymous is the right way. If any other, your family generational pension fund will be right.

[@marklongmuir285]

This woman has absolutely no idea about what she is talking about, I know as I worked for Centrelink for 24 years. DO NOT LISTEN TO HER, you ate able to contact what is call a Financial Service Office also known as a FISO, They are free of charge and are employed by the federal government to help assist and give advise on applying for the age pension.

[@AboutRetirementTV]

Hello Mark, thank you for your comment. Yes, you are correct in saying that Centrelink financial Service officer can assist with application for Age Pension, but these days it is impossible to get appointment with them (Centrelink is terribly understaffed) and they are not licenced to give any personal advice. Only information about Age Pension application or changes.

[@7hilladelphia]

Thank you

[@COOLARUL]

Services Australia (was Centrelink), do conduct regular webinars on financial issues (including the age pension, superannuation and aged care). They are a good introduction to the topics and are free to attend. Copies of past webinars are also available on the Services Australia website. These webinars may answer some of your questions.

[@rab61au]

Hi Katherine, Do smaller gifts, say $200 or less, have to be declared? Is there some threshold below which Centrelink isn’t interested? Love your videos. Cheers Rob

[@AboutRetirementTV]

Hi Rob, no no, if everyone did that, Centrelink would be even more overwhelmed. It is to your advantage to let Centrelink know, so there is no threshold, but in most cases I would advise on declaring a more significant values that can actually increase your Age Pension payment.

[@chrisdale5938]

Sorry you are completely wrong. The aged pension is for those who don’t have enough superannuation to help with living costs. What does your country do?

[@lbarrass]

IF you have "too much money" then you should not be putting your nose in the public trough.

[@jamesacland1041]

Tell that to the politicians. Do you think they aren't playing by the rules?? They made the rules so they know how to work the system. If you don't like the the players, don't play the game and don't even critique it.

[@lbarrass]

@@jamesacland1041 I don’t disagree about the politicians but their bad example doesn’t justify anything.

[@mickyd2673]

Why do I lose pension funds as my partner who works. We are in a defector relationship Centrelink are contacted fortnightly with her income why should I have monies taken when I have paid my way all my life.When I informed Centrelink of our relationship they deducted a further $200 a fortnight from my single pension . If I was to work part time / casual they would hit me up again?

[@brendanlinnane5610]

All Centrelink payments are based on the combined income and assets of a couple. It has always been this way.

[@COOLARUL]

Defacto relationship is treated the same as married couple under Social Security legislation. Centrelink is only following the law treating you the same as a married couple.