Media Release
Minister Hockey announces groundbreaking trial
25 September 2006
Medicare services will be available in Centrelink offices and Centrelink services available in Medicare offices across Australia for the first time.
Minister for Human Services, The Hon. Joe Hockey MP, has announced a trial that builds on the Government's revolutionary "one stop shop" model and will improve customer service and choice at Centrelink and Medicare offices.
"The Government is committed to making it simpler and easier for Australians to do business with us," Minister Hockey said. "I am delighted to announce a groundbreaking trial that offers a mix of services across Centrelink and Medicare."
The six-month trial will take place in every state and see Centrelink services for seniors and carers available through selected Medicare offices. Non-cash Medicare services will be offered through selected Centrelink offices.
This is the first trial of its kind in capital cities and is in keeping with Minister Hockey's commitment to offer a range of health and social services in Medicare offices following the introduction of electronic claiming.
Medicare offices already offer family assistance services and LPG information in addition to a wide range of health services.
"Offering a broader range of services at the department's various agencies will make it easier for people to do business with the government all in the one place," Minister Hockey said.
"This trial is about better meeting the needs of Australians. It will also test demand for the ongoing expansion of services at Medicare and Centrelink and ensure we can do it in the most beneficial manner".
Exampl es of the types of Medicare services that will be available at the selected Centrelink offices include:
- Claims for payment by EFTPOS or cheque
- Enrol and update personal details
- Register as an organ donor
- Child immunisation statement
Examples of the types of Centrelink seniors and carers services available at Medicare offices include:
- Updating personal details
- Lodging a claim for Age Pension, Carer Payment/Carer Allowance and Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
- Registering for Pension Bonus Scheme
- General Enquiries
"The trial in these eight sights will test customer demand for shared services across Centrelink and Medicare offices," Minister Hockey said.
Eight sites in Australia have been chosen to be part of the trial:
- Centrelink services will be offered at the Hillarys (WA), Port Macquarie (NSW), Box Hill (VIC) and Marion (SA) Medicare offices
- Medicare services will be offered at the Earlville, Cairns (QLD), Broome (WA), Sutherland (NSW) and Launceston (TAS) Centrelink offices
Contact: James Chessell - Media Adviser - 0437 978 028.