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.

1.1.C.340 Continuous personal care (CP)

Definition

For the purposes of CP, for a child, the child must have a severe disability or severe medical condition that requires continuous personal care, because of their disability or medical condition.

Continuous personal care is defined as ongoing care required every day because of a child's disability, to maintain comfort, sustain life, or attend to a bodily function that the child cannot manage his or herself.

'Continuous' does not mean that the carer must spend every minute of the day providing personal care. However, the amount of time spent providing care because of the disability must be at least equivalent to a working day, every day. Care may be provided in long blocks, short regular intervals or a combination of periods.

Policy reference: SS Guide 3.6.4 CP - qualification & payability

Last reviewed: 15 August 2022

The Australian Government acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, water, culture and community. We pay our respects to the Elders both past and present.