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.

6.2.5.130 CA (child) - reviews for recognised disabilities, medical conditions & child turning 16 years of age

Summary

Children with recognised disabilities (1.1.R.90) or medical conditions (1.1.R.95) are subject to a simplified process of review, to confirm the child (1.1.C.90) is still receiving care and attention in the family home. The timing of the recognised disability and medical condition reviews is the same as for children who qualify under the DCLA (1.1.D.170).

Certain disabilities and medical conditions are treated as recognised disabilities for review purposes only (6.2.5.120) although they are NOT on the list of recognised disabilities and recognised medical conditions. The simplified review regime also applies to these disabilities and medical conditions.

Policy reference: SS Guide 1.1.R.90 Recognised disability (CA (child)), 1.1.R.95 Recognised medical conditions (CA), 6.2.5.120 CA (child) - disabilities & medical conditions recognised for review purposes only, 6.2.5.110 CA - care load reviews - CA (child) only

Recognised disabilities or medical conditions which are only recognised until the child reaches a certain age

Where the inclusion of a disability or medical condition on the list of recognised disabilities or medical conditions indicates that a review is necessary at a certain age, or after a specific period, or treatment, the child should be reassessed.

Example: If the child has severe multiple or physical disability, including uncontrolled seizures and is under 6 months of age the child's condition should be reviewed at 6 months of age.

Child turning 16 years

When a child turns 16 years and 3 months of age they no longer qualify their carer for CA (child). Although many 16 year olds will qualify their carer for CA (adult), transfer is not automatic and CA child to adult transfer documentation must be lodged and assessed against the ADAT.

The carer can remain qualified under CA (child) provisions until the later of the following:

  • the child turns 16 years and 3 months of age, OR
  • if all CA (child) to CA (adult) transfer documentation is submitted on or before the day the child turns 16 years, until the ADAT assessment is completed.

Act reference: SSAct section 953 Qualification for CA — caring for either 1 or 2 disabled children, section 953A Remaining qualified for CA after child turns 16

Policy reference: SS Guide 3.6.7.43 CA (child) to CA (adult) transfer process

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