1.2.7.20 Pharmaceutical Allowance (PhA) - Description

Objective of PhA

PhA is a payment made to certain income support recipients to help with the cost of pharmaceutical prescriptions under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).

PhA cannot be claimed on its own. It may be paid as a component of certain income support payments.

Background

From 20 September 2009 as part of major pension reform, the value of PhA was incorporated into:

• the pension supplement (1.2.10.10) for most pensioners and for income support recipients who have reached the qualifying age for age pension, and
• the transitional rate of pension (5.1.8.40).

How PhA is paid

PhA is paid fortnightly with the person's main payment. It may be paid in advance to certain pensioners.

Act reference: SSAct section 1061F(1) Qualification for advance PhA, section 1068 Module D Pharmaceutical allowance

Policy reference: SS Guide 3.8.2 PhA - Qualification & Payability, 5.1.7.20 PhA - Current Rates, 5.4.3 PhA Advance Payment

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Last reviewed: 1 July 2010