This was a period of my life where I gave birth, left my abusive partner, had to take 7 months off work- alone- and cover expenses as a single mother. Not only are they trying to claw back the single parenting payment, but the paid parental leave, for which I did not qualify. At this time of my life I was suicidal. Sadly, this has brought it all back and I spent 8 days in a row on the phone for 5 hours a day trying to work out what the hell was going on, and contacting my old employer to get payslips from 6 years ago. Disgusting. Absolutely disgusting. All whilst trying to stay positive for my beautiful baby, that I can barely provide food and shelter for as it is on a parenting payment.
Appalling. This is social terrorism and a fraudulent way to handle things. You can appeal, but I was warned "if you appeal your debt may increase". bullying, sarcasm, and poor treatment from the staff- and they mostly have absolutely no idea how the system works. Shame on you Centrelink, and shame on you Australian Government.