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1.3 The Structure of the Manual and How to Use it

1.3.1The manual has been designed to be read either in its entirety by a newcomer to the overpayments field or used as a quick reference guide for someone familiar with overpayments work.

1.3.2The majority of the chapters were written by State Office staff with the appropriate experience in this type of work. This means that they are of a practical nature and the content should be able to be applied in everyday situations. The manual was last updated in 2004 and endorsed by the Repatriation Commission to reflect current DVA overpayment policy and practices.

1.3.3While the specific overpayment chapters will define the terms used in overpayments processing, there may be a need to obtain this information quickly. For quick reference, common overpayment terms are defined in the Glossary at the end of this manual.

1.3.4The manual also contains references to other online procedural information used in overpayments processing. Standard letters, forms and other documentation are not included to ensure that outdated information is not stored within the manual. If you or your colleagues identify a need for additional standard letters or forms you should send a copy of the documentation to the Director of the Business Operations and Support (BOS) Section in National Office. BOS will then circulate State Office suggestions to determine whether there is national application.

1.3.5The manual has been designed as a stand-alone information source, however, you may need to consult other material for further information. For example, the manual includes references to several pieces of legislation including the Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986, the Privacy Act 1988 and the Social Security Act 1991 to name a few. Online versions of relevant legislation may be obtained from the Australian Government's ComLaw website    

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1.3.6You may also need to consult other manuals and electronic knowledge tools including:

  • DVA Investigation Guidelines – TRIM ref: 0161127E
  • Consolidated Library of Information and Knowledge (CLIK)     More ?