Guides to Social Policy Law

Purpose

The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The purpose of each Guide is to support decision making by assisting in understanding the related law and policy, and its application. Decision makers must base their decisions on the relevant law, with regard to the Australian Government's policy and intent.

The Guides are updated regularly to clarify or reflect changes in legislative interpretation and/or policy application. The next update is scheduled for 1 July 2025.

The Department of Social Services (DSS) produces the Guides on behalf of DSS, the Department of Education, the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). Content is provided by DSS, Department of Education, DEWR and NEMA, as it relates to the legislation they administer.

Supported browsers

See DSS Online Services - Supported browsers for information.

Accessibility

The Assistance for Isolated Children Scheme Guidelines and the ABSTUDY Policy Manual are only available in DOCX and PDF format. The other Guides have been designed as web publications (HTML). They are not available in a single electronic file or in paper format. If there is information that you require and it is in a format you cannot access, or if you experience any other accessibility difficulties, please contact us.

Disclaimer

These publications are covered by the DSS Copyright & Disclaimer.