|
|
|
|
|
This topic explains the issues associated with assessment of SpB claims from people who are:
Policy reference: SS Guide 3.7.1.10 Qualification for SpB
A person who was granted SpB in the socially marginalised category was generally considered to be someone with:
Delegates were asked to be aware that where there was any alternative, it was NOT in the person's best interest to be paid SpB.
However, programs are now better targeted to meet the needs of people who would have previously fallen into this category. These people now have better access to rehabilitation programs, employment programs, the PSP and disability employment assistance programs as well as access to a more generous income test.
When assessing eligibility for socially marginalised people, reports on their condition should have been obtained from treating doctors and other professionals who are acquainted with their circumstances. Social worker advice should also be sought in all cases.
Examples: Reports might have been obtained from psychiatrists, psychologists, occupational therapists.
If a person is in hardship, SpB can be considered if they are:
A person in these situations is still required to meet the usual provisions for SpB. When deciding whether the person is in hardship, care must be taken to consider support received from all sources. As the amount of SpB paid to the person must be recovered in these circumstances, it is important to investigate whether all other sources of support have been exhausted before making a decision to grant payment.
Explanation: If alternative support is available and SpB is not required, the person will avoid having withholdings made from their pension payment when it becomes payable.
Examples: Delays in rent payment may be negotiated on behalf of the person, and food vouchers may also be available.
The short term available funds test applies in all cases. If a person has been precluded under the short term available funds test and reclaims, with less available funds, the delegate must consider whether the situation of hardship was avoidable. If the person is experiencing hardship pending determination of a DSP claim, a CDO assessment is necessary before payment can be granted.
Policy reference: SS Guide 3.7.1.30 Assessment of SpB Claims, 3.7.1.60 Short Term Available Funds Test for SpB
If the person is paid any amount of SpB, it must be recovered from their subsequent pension payment. Clearance must be given for the period of overlap between the provisional commencement date of the pension and the date SpB has been paid to. The provisional commencement date is generally the date of claim lodgement. Due to this requirement, SpB should only be granted in extreme circumstances.
Example: A person who is escaping domestic violence.
SpB must be cancelled when the person's pension/allowance is granted. Any SpB paid from the provisional commencement day must be recovered from the payment, although it does not have to be recovered entirely from the first pension payment if that would result in financial hardship for the person.
_______________________________________________________
Last reviewed: 1 April 2010
