On 6 March 2025, the Full Court of the Federal Court of Australia heard the matter of Matthew Chaplin v Secretary, Department of Social Services (before the Tribunal as Secretary, Department of Social Services and FTXB). The Court reserved its judgement. I will consider the Department’s next steps once the Court’s judgement is handed down. Until then, Services Australia will continue to redirect resources to other work (effectively pausing internal reviews, explanations of decisions and raising of new debts potentially affected by income apportionment).
Individuals, who for personal and related compelling reasons, require resolution of a debt potentially affected by income apportionment, can still contact Services Australia and ask that their review proceed. Their internal review or explanation of decision will be progressed in accordance with the Department’s interpretation of the law.
Michael Lye
Secretary