The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

1.2.3.60 Special needs pension (SpNP) - description

Note: No new grants since 20 September 2000. Payments of SpNP WP and WidB ceased from 20 March 2020. There were no SpNP WP recipients by this time and SpNP WidB recipients were automatically transferred to Age.

Objective of the SpNP

SpNP is paid to people who were long-term residents but who left Australia (1.1.A.320) prior to 7 May 1973 and the introduction of general portability (1.1.P.310) of payments. It was a way of getting Age, DSP, WP or WidB paid outside Australia.

Background information

SpNP was introduced on 7 May 1973, following the introduction of general portability of payments.

Act reference: SSAct Part 2.16 Special needs pensions

Policy reference: SS Guide 3.4.6 SpNP - qualification & payability, 5.1.3.50 SpNP - current rates

Last reviewed: 20 March 2020

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