r/CentrelinkOz

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.

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

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.