Assuree makes a claim for an Assurance of Support (AoS) recoverable payment 005-03050020

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1

Lucas is claiming Youth Allowance as a dependent full time secondary school student who until recently, due to a downturn in the family business, was being supported by their mother and stepfather. Lucas’ assurer, Janice is a distant relative who lives over 300 kilometres away and has had little contact with Lucas since their arrival in Australia. Janice agrees to support Lucas by offering to provide free board and lodging where Janice lives. Janice feels this support is better than sending money.

The Service Officer must consider all factors to determine if it is reasonable for Lucas to relocate 300 kilometres. This offer of support would require Lucas to change schools, be separated from their parents and move in with a distant relative. It could be determined that this type of support is not adequate or reasonable for Lucas. The Service Officer can grant Youth Allowance to Lucas.

2

Rosario is claiming Special Benefit. Rosario advises they are a victim of domestic abuse perpetrated by their husband and has been in a refuge since leaving the family home 2 days ago. Rosario's assurers are their husband and their husband’s sister. The sister has offered Rosario free board and lodging at their home, plus financial support of $100 per week cash which Rosario has refused.

The Service Officer must consider all factors including SSO and social work recommendations to determine if it is reasonable for Rosario to refuse support. Rosario would need to live with a close family member of the alleged domestic violence perpetrator. Therefore, it could be determined that this type of support is not reasonable for Rosario.