Family violence
A young person may be exempt from meeting all of their activity obligations when their living circumstances have changed because of family violence. This is a full exemption.
Definition of family violence
Family violence is a term used to describe violence within the family and close personal relationships.
Family violence covers a broad range of controlling behaviours which typically involve fear, intimidation and emotional deprivation.
Family violence is defined as:
- physical abuse
- sexual abuse
- psychological abuse including but not limited to intimidation, harassment, damage to property or threats of physical, sexual or psychological abuse
Proof
Young people who have recently left situations of family violence will not have to provide proof.
If a young person still needs an exemption after 3 months you can ask for proof.
Proof can include statements from:
- their doctor
- their church
- their lawyer
- the police
- Women's Refuge
- any other person or organisation that is able to support the young person's application
Duration
This exemption is initially given for up to 3 months.
SWIFTT process
Use SWIFTT exemption reason 'Family Violence'.
Receiving an incentive payment
If the young person is receiving an incentive payment and then qualifies for an exemption you will need to decide if they can continue to receive it.
For more information see:
Legislation
- Meaning of family violence section 9 Family Violence Act 2018
- Exemption from obligations under section 162, 164, 166, or 167 of Act: youth support payment recipients and spouses and partners of specified beneficiaries regulation 105 Social Security Regulations 2018
