Public statement on income apportionment following High Court decision

On 17 June 2026, the High Court of Australia handed down its judgment in the matter of Matthew Chaplin v Secretary, Department of Social Services (Case No. M92/2025). 

The Court considered the meaning of the term ‘first earned, derived or received’ and unanimously accepted the Secretary’s preferred construction of the legislation.

My Department remains committed to delivering a fair and transparent social security system, that delivers positive outcomes for all Australians. 

People who have had a debt raised before 5 December 2025 which may have been affected by income apportionment can apply for the Income Apportionment Resolution Scheme (Resolution Scheme). The Resolution Scheme provides one-off payments of up to $600 for each eligible debt affected by income apportionment.

People with concerns or questions about their debt can contact Services Australia’s income apportionment line on 1800 560 870. 

Michael Lye
Secretary 

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