Treasury says 70% of benefits payments have been made

Remainder 'should' be made by lunchtime tomorrow

The treasury minister has confirmed around 70% of people affected by a delay in benefits payments have now received their money.

A statement from the department says a solution was identified which has enabled the majority of payments to be made successfully this afternoon.

All outstanding payments 'should be credited by lunchtime tomorrow.'

Anyone who has not received their payments and is still in need of assistance - or has suffered any financial penalties as a consequence - is urged to contact Social Security by calling 686415.

Treasury Minister Alf Cannan appeared live on Update, speaking to Andy Wint.

You can hear that exchange below: