Assessable income deemed by Centrelink has very different rules to the ATO. Mostly in that you can not claim deductions against income, Centrelink want to know gross income for reporting purposes. This could be why the media have decided to make it an issue ? Because if you were able to deduct the cost of the electricity generation, you would be running at a loss.
Another piece of advice when dealing with Centrelink: Do not take for granted that what you are told is true; Record everything; Keep every peace of paperwork they send you; Keep copies of everything you send them; Ask for references (including the name(s) of the person(s) you spoke with).
