Scheme deducts bills straight from Centrelink payment

A free government scheme is helping Aussies make ends meet and ensuring they'll never be hit with a late fee again.

Keeping on top of bills can be a juggle, especially for those on a limited income like a pension.

But the government's bill-paying service Centrepay arranges for regular deductions straight from the Centrelink payment.

“Heaven sent, it’s absolutely fabulous,” Anne Armansin from Energy Aid said.

Seniors who are feeling the pinch, "can at least know that these bills are being paid and what they receive after that is for their own discretion buying food, and those emergency costs,” Craig Hall from National Seniors Australia said.

He believes it's a service older Australians should be looking at but anyone receiving government payments can use it for their telephone bills, water charges, electricity, rent and registration.

“Make life a little bit easier and take the stress out of things,” he said.

Centrepay takes the shock out of big bills by deducting smaller instalments every fortnight. The service can be started, changed or stopped at any time.

Ms Armansin, who runs a specialist service, said it's the best way to keep on top of power charges.

“We have people come in to see us that have bills for $300, $400, $500 - lump sum due in two weeks’ time,” she said.

“They don't have that money and they don't know if they can get it.”

Centrepay can be set up on with Centrelink online, in person or over the phone.