OPF Inspection.

Shelli

The OPF inspector is coming next week and I have no idea what to expect. I have all the documents required ready (even thought I had already submitted them with my application). Can anyone shed some light on what will be asked of me?

Do they inspect the house? I'm currently living with my parents, so not sure how that works.

What kind of stuff do they ask?

Xiney

It all comes down to money and whether you are truly a one parent family.

They'll go through your bank details to make sure you satisfy the means test, and they'll ask whether you're cohabitating with your partner.

As long as you satisfy the means test and they don't find your child's father passed out on the couch surrounded by all his stuff thus proving that he lives there, you should do just fine.

Shelli

Well he's been and gone, and what as a**hole.

I had everything ready for him....he seemed p*ssed off by this, started getting snippy and by the end of it he had me in tears, demanding to know why myself and the ex were seperated, and when I told him it was my exes choice and that he was now living with another woman....he then proceeded to ask me why my ex had left me? I mean WTF?? If I knew that I might not be in the state I am. He kept asking over and over if I was sure I wasn't living with him, fair enough, he needs to be sure I'm not on the fiddle. but surely it's none of his business why we seperated? My blood was boiling by the end of it.

He asked nothing about my income or expenditure.

I was so flustered by the end I didn't even ask what happens next, I just wanted him out of my house.

Any idea what the wait for the outcome is now? And if approved will it be backdated to when I applied? (I'm waiting nearly 5 months for that stupid 10 min grilling and am up to my neck in debt)

tommy21

Sorry to hear that Shelli. I know the one thing you probably want to do is complain the guy and I would do so in the normal run of things. However like it or not this individual holds the keys to the kingdom in terms of decision making. I would wait a week for forms etc to be processed then call into the SWO and ask for an update on the application. If it does get turned down then I would complain him. Feel better!

Xiney

That's awful, Shelli, and I'm very sorry to hear he was so insensitive.

If you can remember what he said, write it down now so that once the decision is made you can make a complaint. I wouldn't complain until after you get the decision - I know they probably shouldn't tell him who complained but I'd bet money that if he wanted to he'd find out anyway and try and make life difficult for you.

Shelli

Anyone know how long a decision usually takes? I had the inspection on 6th Nov, I called today but the lady said the file was still with the inspector and she had no idea how long it would take, and couldnt comment until the file is returned??

GER12

Definately put in a complaint about his behaviour and attitude and I would do it before the deciding officer issues you with a decision. Nobody should have to take or put up with that sort of behaviour. If the Dept doesnt take your complaint seriously or if there is no effective remedy like an apology - then you just go to the ombudsman.

It would also be of help if your parents witnessed this persons behaviour - any possibility? Also, while it may be difficult - write up a statement while its clear in your head of everything he done and said.

Hope it works out.

Nehaxak

That's terrible carry-on

One thing I've learned myself when dealing with the social welfare in any capacity is that I would always record full meetings on my phone and file the mp3 of it away for if ever needed in the future.

Kotek Besar

I would complain immediately, before a decision is made.

That way you can be sure that a fair decision is made, since he knows that:

a) you're the type who'll complain if you feel you've not been treated fairly (and quite right too), and

b) your case will likely be examined thoroughly as a result of your complaint about his conduct.

That's my personal opinion anyway.

Shelli

I think if I was going to make a complaint I should have done it that day, or the Monday after at the latest.

There is absolutely no reason for him to refuse my application, I meet all criteria and can prove anything he wants me to.

GER12

I'd make it a written complaint - copy it - and stick it in registered post as proof of delivery. I am sure its also not an isolated incident or out of ordinary behaviour from this inspector. Give the DSFA a time-frame to fully investigate the complaint - the DSFA can tend to draw out and put it all on the long finger hoping you'll just go away or give up - and in relation to the timeframe I'd contact the ombudsman to be certain of what timeframe you can state for investigation and remedy before the ombudsman would investigate.

January

Shelli,
Complain now in writing, state in the complaint that you didn't feel comfortable making a complaint in case it affected your claim in any way.