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.

2.2.4 Work test period for COVID-19 affected claimants for PLP

Work test period for COVID-19 affected claimants

Where a claimant for PLP is a COVID-19 affected claimant (1.1.C.165), their work test period will be 600 days instead of 392 days.

For the purposes of making an initial eligibility determination (1.1.I.70), the work test period is the 600 day period prior to the expected DOB or placement of the child for adoption.

For the purposes of making an eligibility determination, the work test period is the 600 day period prior to the child's actual DOB or placement for adoption. If the claimant is unable to meet the work test based on the actual date of DOB or placement of the adoption, and the child was born or placed after the expected DOB or placement, the work test period is the 600 day period prior to the expected DOB or placement.

Example: Isabelle gives birth in February 2021. She had her work hours reduced significantly from late March 2020 due to the economic impact of COVID-19 on her workplace. Due to her reduced work hours, Isabelle will not meet the work test requirements in the 392 days before the date of birth of her child.

As Isabelle's baby was born between 22 March 2020 and 31 March 2021, and she had her work hours reduced as a result of the adverse effects of COVID-19 which caused her to be unable to satisfy the work test under the usual work test period, Isabelle is a COVID-19 affected claimant. Isabelle's work test period will be 600 days before the date of birth of her child.

Act reference: PPLAct section 6 The Dictionary, section 33 The work test period—claimants other than COVID-19 affected claimants, section 33A The work test period—COVID-19 affected claimants

Policy reference: PPL Guide 2.2.1 When a person satisfies the work test for PLP

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