Centrelink cracking down on those claiming single parent benefits

Centrelink is cracking down on single parents in an attempt to flush out those claiming single parent benefits who aren’t actually single.

The government claims there’s more than 14,000 single parents rorting the system and tougher measures could save taxpayers $94 million over five years.

Those on Parenting Payments or Newstart will be sent a form that must be filled out by a friend or colleague attesting to their single status.

Those who provide incorrect information could face 12 months behind bars.

According to the National Council of Single Mothers and their Children, the measure unfairly targets those already doing it tough.

“Immediately the community minds turns to, well why do we need this? What are women doing?” CEO Terese Edwards said.

Brisbane mother Karolina Berkell-Kirk found the process invasive.

“It feels like they've really made it quite a complicated process,” she said.

Single parents are advised to contact Centrelink if they have any issues with the form and to advise them of any changes to their single status within 14 days.