Carer Payment
Changes have been made to the way qualification for Carer Payment is assessed. From 1 July 2009, the assessment process changed from a narrow medical model to one that recognises the impact of the significant care provided to children with severe disability or severe medical condition.
Other changes include;
- more circumstances in which carers may qualify for Carer Payment, such as
- one child with severe disability or severe medical condition
- two or more children with disability or medical condition
- a disabled adult and one or more children with disability or medical condition
- access to Payment for short term or episodic periods of care of at least three months but less than six months
- more sensitive and generous arrangements for carers of children with a terminal illness
- more generous arrangements for carers of children in hospital
- automatic qualification for Carer Allowance for carers who qualify for Carer Payment
- provision for a wider range of treating health professionals to complete medical forms.
Single Assessment Process
From 1 July 2010, there is a single assessment process for Carer Payment and Carer Allowance for carers of children with disability or medical condition.
The assessment tool, introduced for Carer Payment from 1 July 2009, recognises and assesses the level of care provided by the carer and required by the child. The assessment requires the completion of two questionnaires: one by the carer and one by a treating health professional.
Easier Transition from Carer Allowance (Child) to Carer Allowance (Adult)
It is now easier for carers to move between Carer Allowance (child) and Carer Allowance (adult) when their child turns 16. Carers will have up to six months in which to have the care receiver assessed under the Adult Disability Assessment Tool for Carer Allowance (adult), without losing payment.
These carers will not be required to complete a full claim for Carer Allowance (adult). Instead, they will be provided with pre-populated forms when the child is aged 15 years and 9 months. Payment of Carer Allowance (child) can be extended until the child is aged 16 years and 3 months.
This transition period of six months is already available for Carer Payment.
Extending the List of Treating Health Professionals
From 1 July 2010, speech pathologists are included on the list of treating health professionals who can complete the medical assessment for children.
The health professions that can assist with Carer Payment and Carer Allowance applications and complete medical reports are:
- Medical practitioners
- Registered nurses
- Occupational therapists
- Physiotherapists
- Psychologists
- Aboriginal health workers in geographically remote areas
- Speech pathologists.
How do I get further information?
For information about rates, other available assistance or eligibility you can:
- visit the payment page on Centrelink’s website
- visit the Carers, Benefits and Payments page
- telephone Centrelink on 13 27 17 or for TTY service 1800 810 586
- telephone the Indigenous Call Centre on 13 6380
- telephone assistance in languages other than English on 13 1202.
- visit your nearest Centrelink office.