The department is working to implement changes arising from reviews into the administration of the Targeted Compliance Framework (TCF). This page provides the latest information and updates on the progress of this work.
The Targeted Compliance Framework applies to participants in Workforce Australia, Inclusive Employment Australia and Transition to Work who have mutual obligation requirements.
On 19 October 2026, the Secretary gave an update on the decision to resume 2 elements of the Targeted Compliance Framework.
Two elements of the Targeted Compliance Framework have resumed
Decision-making under the following 2 elements of the Targeted Compliance Framework recommenced on 26 October 2026:
- payment cancellations for not meeting a reconnection requirement within 4 weeks
- payment suspensions for work refusal failures.
The remaining paused provisions under the Targeted Compliance Framework are expected to resume in early 2027.
More detail on the decisions to date, status of the system, who is impacted and information for participants is available on the TCF decisions and information for participants page.
Download the Easy Read version
Compensation
Anyone impacted by incorrect payment cancellation decisions can apply for compensation at any time.
The department is taking a proactive invitation to claim approach using data held in our systems to identify people most likely to be eligible for compensation under the Compensation for Detriment caused by Defective Administration (CDDA) scheme.
Invitations will be sent in batches from October 2026 to ensure we can respond efficiently to claims received. Once this work is complete, the department will announce on its website when it has finished sending invitations to apply for compensation. If you have not received an invitation, but believe you experienced a direct financial loss, or non-financial loss, because of an eligible cancellation decision, you can still lodge an application.
More information on compensation
Download the Easy Read version
Digital Protections Framework
The department’s draft Digital Protections Framework sets out safeguards for the use of technology in decision-making and service delivery across all Commonwealth employment services programs.
The development of the Digital Protections Framework responds to the Commonwealth Ombudsman’s recommendation that the department’s Secretary comply with section 159A of the Social Security Legislation Amendment (Streamlined Participation Requirements and Other Measures) Act 2022 (SPROM Act) by determining a Digital Protections Framework.
The department accepted this recommendation, and delivering the framework remains a key priority as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen safeguards for job seekers and support the modernisation of employment services administration.
The Digital Protection Framework will enhance transparency, accountability and confidence in the way technology supports service delivery and decision-making.
The department undertook public consultation on the draft Digital Protections Framework in September 2026. The consultation period has now closed.
The department is considering the feedback received.
System reviews
To assure the integrity of the administration of the Targeted Compliance Framework, the department is acting on the insights from recent reviews and recommendations.
The reviews looked at whether decisions taken through the Targeted Compliance Framework were made in a lawful and robust manner:
- An independent assurance review examined the IT system operating the Targeted Compliance Framework against policy and business rules.
- The Commonwealth Ombudsman released 2 reports from his investigation into decisions under the Targeted Compliance Framework.
- A legal review examined whether decisions are being properly made and whether decision-making processes are aligned with the law.
The department is working with other partner agencies to improve the integrity, operation and transparency of the employment services system.
We are prioritising improvements to our assurance activities. All decision-making processes that might impact a person’s payment are being tested, mapped end to end and clearly documented and assured.
The department is improving its governance processes, and ensuring legal, policy and operational considerations are integrated into the system.
Support
The department has developed resources to ensure participants are aware of the resumption of 2 elements of the Targeted Compliance Framework and have the support they need. This includes:
- participant journey maps to give participants visual examples of how the resumed suspension and cancellation processes will operate
- a participant fact sheet
- an Easy Read document for people with diverse information needs
- training and support for providers so they are equipped to help participants navigate the changes.
Participants who have questions, are concerned, or would like to make a complaint, can call the department’s National Customer Service Line for more information on 1800 805 260.
Statements and updates
- 19 October 2026 – Secretary’s update on the resumption of elements of the Targeted Compliance Framework
- 4 August 2026 – Secretary’s update on work to return the Targeted Compliance Framework to lawful administration
- 17 December 2025 – An update on the Targeted Compliance Framework
- 9 December 2025 – Secretary's statement in response to Ombudsman’s report
- 3 October 2025 – Secretary's statement on progress under the Targeted Compliance Framework Integrity Assurance program
- 14 August 2025 – Secretary's statement in response to the independent assurance review
- 6 August 2025 – Secretary's statement in response to Commonwealth Ombudsman report
- 21 March 2025 – Secretary's statement updating on the progress of assurance reviews, and announcing decisions to pause additional elements of the Targeted Compliance Framework
- 26 February 2025 – Secretary's opening statement to Senate Education and Employment References Committee