Sometimes, it’s bank details being changed without someone fully understanding or consenting to it.
Or a well-meaning, temporary arrangement set up during a time of need that is no longer in your best interests.
It’s a timely reminder this World Elder Abuse Awareness Day to take a moment to look at something many Centrelink customers rely on every day - nominee arrangements.
It’s worth making sure these arrangements still reflect your wishes.
What can a nominee do?
A nominee is someone you authorise to act on your behalf.
When it comes to Centrelink payments and services, what a nominee can do depends on the type of nominee arrangement.
A payment nominee can receive and manage your Centrelink payments on your behalf.
A correspondence nominee can help manage your personal details and deal with us directly. This may include updating your contact or payment information, lodging some claims, reporting income, or requesting documents like income statements and concession cards.
These arrangements can be incredibly helpful.
For many older Australians, having a nominee provides peace of mind and practical support, particularly when managing payments or navigating government services.
Where it can get tricky
A nominee might be a family member, a friend, or a trusted organisation. But like any arrangement built on trust, it shouldn’t be a set and forget decision.
Circumstances change. Relationships evolve. And what worked well a few years ago may not be the right fit today.
In some cases, problems can arise when nominee arrangements continue long after they’re needed, or without regular check-ins.
Something as simple as outdated details can cause confusion. In more serious situations, changes made by a nominee, such as updating bank account details, can have real financial consequences.
This doesn’t mean nominee arrangements are risky or something to avoid. For many people, they remain an important and helpful tool.
What matters is how they are managed.
A simple check-in can make a difference
Taking a few minutes to regularly review your nominee arrangement can make a big difference.
Ask yourself:
- Is this still the right person for the role?
- Do they still need access to act on my behalf?
- Are my contact and banking details up to date?
These simple questions can help ensure your arrangements continue to reflect your wishes.
It’s also important to have open conversations. Make sure both parties understand what has been authorised and what responsibilities come with the role. Clear communication helps avoid misunderstandings and keeps everyone on the same page.
For families and carers, it’s equally important to respect the independence of older Australians. Supporting someone doesn’t mean taking control. It means helping them stay informed and involved in decisions about their own finances and services.
If you suspect a Centrelink nominee arrangement is being misused
Elder abuse can take many forms, and it isn’t always easy to recognise. Small steps like checking in on nominee arrangements, can play a big role in preventing issues.
If you’re concerned that your Centrelink nominee arrangement is being misused or could be a form of elder financial abuse, you can contact Services Australia to have the arrangement reviewed, changed or cancelled at any time.
Once cancelled, the nominee will no longer have access to your account. If cancelling the arrangement could affect your safety, it’s important to let us know so we can support you appropriately.
You can call Services Australia directly on 132 300 or visit a local Service Centre to speak with a staff member or social worker.
Alternatively, if you suspect an older person’s safety is at risk, you can report this on the National Elder Abuse Line on 1800ELDERHelp 1800 353 374.
For more information about managing nominee arrangements, visit the Services Australia website.
Originally published by Yahoo Finance on 13 June 2026.