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 his mother and stepfather. His assurer, Janice is a distant relative who lives over 300 kilometres away and has had little contact with Lucas since his arrival in Australia. Janice agrees to support Lucas by offering to provide free board and lodging where she lives. She 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 his 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. She advises she is a victim of domestic abuse perpetrated by her husband, she has been in a refuge since she left her home 2 days ago. Rosario's assurers are her husband and his sister. The sister has offered Rosario free board and lodging at her 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.