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.D.20 Date of incapacity (DSP, JSP)

Definition

For the purposes of DSP and JSP, the date of incapacity is the date shown on the medical certificate as:

the date of injury, OR
start date of the illness.

Exception: In some cases it may be reasonable to accept that the incapacity occurred from an earlier date than that indicated on the medical certificate.

Example: In the case of a broken limb it would be reasonable to accept incapacity from an earlier date without requiring further medical coverage.

Policy reference: SS Guide 3.6.1 DSP - qualification & payability, 1.2.1.05 Jobseeker payment (JSP) - description

Last reviewed: 6 November 2023

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