Guide to Social Security Law Updates - 1995

• 28 December 1995
• 14 December 1995
• 30 November 1995
• 16 November 1995
• 2 November 1995
• 19 October 1995
• 5 October 1995
• 21 September 1995
• 7 September 1995
• 24 August 1995
• 10 August 1995
• 13 July 1995
• 29 June 1995
• 15 June 1995
• 18 May 1995
• 27 April 1995
• 6 April 1995
• 23 March 1995
• 9 March 1995
• 23 February 1995
• 9 February 1995
• 26 January 1995
• 12 January 1995

Update 545G # Date 28 December 1995

CHAPTER 20 - MOBILITY ALLOWANCE - Remove discriminatory remark from Mobility Allowance Chapter 20. See guidelines 20.103 to 20.105.

Update 544G # Date 28 December 1995

CHAPTER 17 - FAMILY PAYMENT - Changes due to the amalgamation of BFP and AFP. See guidelines 17.000 to 17.16501.

Re-write of whole chapter.

Update 543G # Date 28 December 1995

CHAPTER 41 - PARENTING ALLOWANCE - Abolition of Dependent Spouse Allowance. See guideline 41N.7000.

The Dependent Spouse Allowance paid to AUSTUDY students with dependent partners and children is being abolished from 1 January 1996.

Update 542G # Date 28 December 1995

CHAPTER 41 - PARENTING ALLOWANCE - Abolition of Dependent Spouse Allowance. See guidelines 41N.6200 to 41N.6206.

The Dependent Spouse Allowance paid to AUSTUDY students with dependent partners and children is being abolished from 1 January 1996.

Update 541G # Date 28 December 1995

CHAPTER 20 - MOBILITY ALLOWANCE - Changes to the mobility allowance legislation.. See guideline 20.1010 to 20.1011.

Updating legislation amendments.

Update 540G # Date 28 December 1995

CHAPTER 42 - PORTABILITY AND COMPARABLE FOREIGN PAYMENTS - International help file. See guideline 42.2230 to 42.2233 and 42.2315.

Reference to the paper job aid for comparable foreign payment has been replaced with references to the international help file on the LAN.

Update 539G # Date 28 December 1995

CHAPTER 42 - PORTABILITY AND COMPARABLE FOREIGN PAYMENTS - International help file. See guideline 42.2510.

Reference to the paper job aid for comparable foreign payment has been replaced with references to the international help file on the LAN.

Update 538G # Date 28 December 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Income support Supplement. See guideline 27.7100 to 27.7235.

Describes changes h5

CHAPTER 42 - PORTABILITY AND COMPARABLE FOREIGN PAYMENTS - Portability - temporary return to Australia. See guideline 42.944.

Guideline 42.944 included an incorrect a cross reference.

Update 536G # Date 28 December 1995

CHAPTER 41 -PARENTING ALLOWANCE. Abolition of Dependent Spouse Allowance. See guideline 41.3110.

The Dependent Spouse Allowance paid to AUSTUDY students with dependent partners and children is being abolished from 1 January 1996.

Update 535G # Date 14 December 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Amalgamation of basic family payment (BFP) and additional family payment (AFP). See guidelines 1.5463 to 1.5608.

Changes due to the amalgamation of BPF and AFP.

Update 534G # Date 14 December 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Amalgamation of basic family payment (BFP) and additional family payment (AFP). See guideline 1.10700

Changes due to the amalgamation of BPF and AFP.

Update 533G # Date 14 December 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Amalgamation of basic family payment (BFP) and additional family payment (AFP). See guidelines 1.1403 and 1.1432.

Changes due to the amalgamation of BPF and AFP.

Update 532G # Date 14 December 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Amalgamation of basic family payment (BFP) and additional family payment (AFP). See guidelines 1.1010 to 1.1011 (deleted).

Changes due to the amalgamation of BPF and AFP.

Update 531G # Date 14 December 1995

CHAPTER 23 - ADDITIONAL PAYMENTS - RENT ASSISTANCE, PHARMACEUTICAL ALLOWANCE, TELEPHONE ALLOWANCE, REMOTE AREA ALLOWANCE - Amalgamation of basic family payment (BFP) and additional family payment (AFP). See guidelines 23.000, 23.133, 23.201-23.203, 23.206, 23.1002, 23.1300, 23.1301.

Changes due to the amalgamation of BPF and AFP.

Update 530G # Date 14 December 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Amalgamation of basic family payment (BFP) and additional family payment (AFP). See guidelines 27.24000 to 27.24100 (part L - deleted) and 27.25000 to 27.27911 (part M - rewritten).

Changes due to the amalgamation of BPF and AFP.

Update 529G # Date 14 December 1995

CHAPTER 9 - SOLE PARENT PENSION - Qualification and payability. See guidelines 9.310 to 9.322.

Changes due to the amalgamation of BPF and AFP.

Update 528G # Date 14 December 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Assessment of Assets. See guidelines 27.16104 and 27.16110.

Changes due to the amalgamation of BPF and AFP.

Update 527G # Date 14 December 1995

CHAPTER 2 - METHODS OF PAYMENT AND TAXATION - Taxation. See guideline 2.8002.

Changes due to the amalgamation of BPF and AFP.

Update 526G # Date 14 December 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Current rates of payment. See guidelines 27.5500 to 27.5511.

Changes due to the amalgamation of BPF and AFP.

Update 525G # Date 14 December 1995

CHAPTER 24 - BEREAVEMENT PAYMENTS - PART D - Child Deaths. See guidelines 24.6100 to 24.6380.

Changes due to the amalgamation of BPF and AFP.

Update 524G # Date 14 December 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Clarification of "resides in or resident of Australia". See guideline 1.7202.

Clarifies guidelines on the interpretation of s.7(3)(f) - intention to remain permanently in Australia must not be given undue weight when assessing whether a claimant resides in Australia.

Update 523G # Date 14 December 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Use of interpreters. See guidelines 1.1601 to 1.1604.

Minor amendments to guidelines. Linguistic Availability Performance Allowance (LAPA) now reads Community Language Allowance (CLA) and the Multilingual Telephone Information number has changed.

Update 522G # Date 14 December 1995

CHAPTER 25 - NON-CASH BENEFITS - Concession cards. See guidelines 25.000 to 25.7502.

The entire chapter has been rewritten to reflect the current range of concession cards issued and the rules under which they are issued. Chapter 25 now contains information about the pensioner concession card (PCC), the commonwealth seniors health card (CSHC) and the 'Confirmation of Concession Card Entitlement' (Form SS55). References to the pensioner health benefits and transport concession cards have been removed as these cards are no longer produced.

Update 521G # Date 14 December 1995

CHAPTER 2 - METHODS OF PAYMENT AND TAXATION - Eligibility for urgent cheque payment. See guidelines 2.3610 to 2.3613.

Referral of customers to social workers for financial counselling.

Update 520G # Date 14 December 1995

CHAPTER 45 - YOUTH TRAINING ALLOWANCE - Activity Test Exemptions. See guideline 45.3210.

Procedures for Activity Test Exemptions in special circumstances.

Update 519G # Date 30 November 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Trusts - constructive, resulting or implied trusts. See guidelines 27.15730 to 27.15736.

Advice on the existence of constructive trusts to be obtained from the Legal & Legislation Branch rather than the Australian Government Solicitor.

Update 518G # Date 30 November 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - Maximum allowance period - role of Australian Government Health Service Medical Officer (AGHSMO) and Approved Medical Practitioner (AMP), referral to Disability Support Officer (DSO) and to a Social Worker. See guidelines 14.9500 to 14.9801.

Changing Commonwealth Medical Officer (CMO) to Australian Government Health Service Medical Officer (AGHSMO) and minor amendments.

Update 517G # Date 30 November 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - Education leavers waiting period - Date of Commencement: Incapacity during education leavers waiting period for JSA or NSA - Date of Commencement: Reduction of education leavers waiting period - periods of employment. See guidelines 14.7400 to 14.7704.

Changing education leavers deferment period to education leavers waiting period.

Update 516G # Date 30 November 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - Date of commencement - date of incapacity. See guidelines 14.6202 to 14.6205.

Removal of words 'deferment period' and correction of cross-references.

Update 515G # Date 30 November 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - Medical certificates and maximum allowance period. See guidelines 14.4300 to 14.4401.

Correction of cross-reference.

Update 514G # Date 30 November 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - Assessing use of alcohol or drugs - referral to Australian Government Health Service Medical Officer. See guideline 14.3200.

Amendment of Commonwealth Medical Officer to Australian Government Health Service Medical Officer.

Update 513G # Date 30 November 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Newly arrived residents waiting periods - application to New Zealanders. See guidelines 1.10200 to 1.10203.

These guidelines explain why the newly arrived residents waiting period for job search allowance (JSA) and other benefits do not apply to New Zealanders and explain the exceptions.

Update 512G # Date 16 November 1995

CHAPTER 7 - WIFE PENSION - Wife pension for women under 40 years of age. See guideline 7.001.

A 1995-96 Budget proposal was that wife pension (WP) and mature age partner allowance (MAPA) would be abolished from 1 January 1996 for current recipients born after 1 July 1955. The Government decided on 17 October 1995 to reverse this decision. This means that all women currently receiving WP/MAPA will continue to do so, unless they lose qualification or payability otherwise.

Update 511G # Date 16 November 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Wife pension - partner in goal. See guidelines 1.18302 to 1.18303.

These guidelines redefines rate payable for partnered, partner in goal pensioners

Update 510G # Date 16 November 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - JSA waiting period due to Agreement with NZ. See guidelines 12.5500 to 12.5502.

These guidelines describe the simplified waiting period rules for JSA claimants from New Zealand.

Update 509G # Date 16 November 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - Payments from insurance policies - Sickness and accident policies. See guidelines 14.4800 to 14.4805.

These guidelines have been simplified and rewritten.

Update 508G # Date 16 November 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - Loss of income. See guideline 14.4600 to 14.4773.

The loss of income guidelines have been revised.

Update 507G # Date 16 November 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Immediate Annuities. See guideline 27.13637.

Rollover of annuity - upper limit amount, 1995/96 figure as advised by the Australian Taxation Office.

Update 506G # Date 16 November 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Rent Assistance - historical rates. See guideline 27.3900.

These amendments make minor corrections to the rent assistance historical rates table.

Update 505G # Date 2 November 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Rent assistance (RA) for blind pensioners. See guidelines 27.1201 to 27.1203.

This amendment corrects a reference to the legislative basis for income testing RA for blind pensioners.

Update 504G # Date 2 November 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Assessment of saved investments. See guideline 27.12710.

This change corrects the reference to the Act in guideline 27.12710.

Update 503G # Date 2 November 1995

CHAPTER 23 - ADDITIONAL PAYMENTS - Pharmaceutical allowance for parenting allowees. See guidelines 23.2000 to 23.2001.

Pharmaceutical allowance is paid to parenting allowees who are at least 60 years of age and have been receiving income support for more than 6 months.

Update 502G # Date 2 November 1995

CHAPTER 42 - PORTABILITY AND COMPARABLE FOREIGN PAYMENTS - Saving provisions on temporary return to Australia. See guidelines 42.940 to 42.944.

The guideline clarifies that former residents in Agreement countries who are exempted from proportional portability because they left Australia before 1996, will not lose that exemption if they return to Australia after 1996 and do not again become Australian residents.

Update 501G # Date 2 November 1995

CHAPTER 26 - EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION PAYMENTS - Education Entry Payment for Carer Pensioners. See guidelines 26.7000 to 26.7800.

Education Entry Payment is now payable to carer pensioners on the same basis as it is paid to sole parent pensioners.

Update 500G # Date 2 November 1995

CHAPTER 26 - EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION PAYMENTS -Employment Entry Payment for Carer Pensioners. See guideline 26.000.

Employment Entry Payment is now payable to carer pensioners on the same basis as it is paid to sole parent pensioners.

Update 499G # Date 2 November 1995

CHAPTER 42 - PORTABILITY AND COMPARABLE FOREIGN PAYMENTS. Saving provisions on temporary return to Australia. See guidelines 42.520 to 42.522.

The guideline clarifies that former residents in Agreement countries who are exempted from proportional portability because they left Australia before 1996, will not lose that exemption if they return to Australia after 1996 and do not again become Australian residents.

Update 498G # Date 2 November 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - Date of Commencement. See guideline 14.7750.

Payment of sickness allowance cannot commence until the expiry of a JSA/NSA/YTA deferment period.

Update 497G # Date 2 November 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - Payment during a job search allowance deferment period. See guidelines 14.5400 to 14.5402.

Sickness allowance is not payable in a JSA/NSA/YTA deferment period regardless of whether the person has claimed JSA/NSA/YTA.

Update 496G # Date 2 November 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Annuities - Date Payable. See guidelines 27.13610 to 27.13614.

An annuity becomes payable on the date of purchase. However some types of annuity commence not on purchase date but one pay period before the first instalment is due.

Update 495G # Date 19 October 1995

CHAPTER 15 - SPECIAL BENEFIT - Qualifications and Payability. See guidelines 15.3100 and 15.3201.

This amendment clarifies the ordinary waiting period for sickness allowance may be waived. ELDP may be waived for sickness allowance and job search allowance. Waiting periods and deferment periods cannot be served concurrently.

Update 494G # Date 19 October 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - (1) Ordinary waiting period for sickness allowance. See guidelines 14.6800 to 14.6802. (2) Annual leave waiting period. See guidelines14.7000 to 14.7200.

(1) From 29 September 1995, the ordinary waiting period for sickness allowance can be waived on the grounds of financial hardship.

(2) These guidelines have been revised to accurately reflect the effect that the payment of annual leave has upon sickness allowance.

Update 493G # Date 19 October 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - (1)Definition of work - unemployed claimants. (2)Basic Qualifications. (3)Alcohol and drug rehabilitation programs. (4)Claimants under 16 years. See guidelines 14.2400 to 14.3300.

(1) This amendment clarifies the definition of work for unemployed claimants as full-time, part-time permanent or casual work for at least eight hours per week that the person could be reasonably expected to do.

(2) This amendment corrects cross reference details and the name of the Australian Government Health Service Medical Officer and adds youth training allowance to all job search references.

(3) This amendment removes an incorrect cross reference.

(4) This amendment corrects cross reference details.

Update 492G # Date 19 October 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - Requalification after cancellation at week 52 or 104. See guidelines 14.4100 to 14.4153.

This change clarifies the existing circumstances in which sickness allowance can be regranted in the two year preclusion period and advises that a person who is awaiting surgery may now also qualify.

Update 491G # Date 19 October 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - (1) Introduction and overview. See guidelines 14.300 to 14.402. (2) Not qualified for two years after cancellation due to time limits. See guidelines 14.600 to 14601.

(1) This amendment corrects cross reference details.

(2) A person who is awaiting surgery may qualify for sickness allowance during a two year preclusion period.

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - Not qualified for two years after cancellation due to time limits. See guidelines 14.600 to 14.601.

A person who is awaiting surgery may qualify for sickness allowance during a two year preclusion period.

Update 490G # Date 19 October 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - Reviews and notification. See guideline 14.12301.

This amendment corrects a cross reference.

Update 489G # Date 19 October 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Current Rates of Payment. See guidelines 27.5000 and 27.6700.

Update of rates and associated information.

Update 488G # Date 19 October 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Assessable assets. See guideline 27.15556.

Provides the 'rule-of-thumb' calculation used to determine whether the surrender value of an insurance policy should be obtained from the insurer.

Update 487G # Date 19 October 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Calculation of forgone wages. See guidelines 27.32630 to 27.32636.

Update of method of calculation of forgone wages.

Update 486G # Date 19 October 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Incorrect Act references. See guidelines 12.9000 and 12.9200.

Act references have been updated to reflect a renumbering of the Act.

Update 485G # Date 19 October 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Non-attendance at review interview. See guideline 12.2104.

Non-attendance at an IRM review interview has previously been considered an activity test breach. Changes to the legislation now mean that this should be treated as an administrative breach.

Update 484G # Date 19 October 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Jury duty. See guideline 12.171.

Persons performing jury duty can now be exempted from the application of the activity test under the 'special circumstances' provisions within section 525AA of the Act.

Update 483G # Date 5 October 1995

CHAPTER 42 - PORTABILITY AND COMPARABLE FOREIGN PAYMENTS - Portability - Return to Australia See guideline 42.900.

When a pensioner returns to Australia after an absence overseas, the extent of review action to be carried out depends on the length of the absence and the pensioner's financial and family situation.

Update 482G # Date 5 October 1995

CHAPTER 47 - DROUGHT RELIEF PAYMENTS - Earnings credit eligibility for drought relief payment (DRP). See guideline 47.7000.

Drought relief payment recipients are not eligible for an earnings credit.

Update 481G # Date 5 October 1995

CHAPTER 13 - FARM HOUSEHOLD SUPPORT - Earnings credit eligibility for farm household support (FHS). See guideline 13.7000.

Farm household support recipients are not eligible for an earnings credit.

Update 480G # Date 5 October 1995

CHAPTER 45 - YOUTH TRAINING ALLOWANCE - Parental Income Test/Parental Assets Test. See guideline 45.21400.

Form JY to be issues in cases where parents reside overseas.

Update 479G # Date 5 October 1995

CHAPTER 7 - WIFE PENSION - Rates of pension. See guideline 7.2000.

Describes rate payable to spouse of imprisoned pensioner.

Update 478G # Date 21 September 1995

CHAPTER 45 - YOUTH TRAINING ALLOWANCE - Education leavers. See guideline 45.7900.

Reference to the Student and Youth Assistance Act 1973 corrected.

Update 477G # Date 21 September 1995

CHAPTER 45 - YOUTH TRAINING ALLOWANCE - Residence and New Zealand citizens moving to Australia. See guidelines 45.1200 to 45.1220.

New sub heading of Residence and New Zealand citizens moving to Australia as youth training allowance (YTA) is not covered by the New Zealand Reciprocal Agreement therefore New Zealand citizens are not subject to a settlement test and can qualify for YTA from date of arrival in Australia.

Update 476G # Date 21 September 1995

CHAPTER 2 - METHODS OF PAYMENT AND TAXATION - Weekly payment option. See guideline 2.2141.

Reworded to clarify effect on weekly payments when subject to 'Application for Payment' (Form SU19) lodgement.

Update 475G # Date 21 September 1995

CHAPTER 8 - CARER PENSION - Definition of severely handicapped person. See guideline 8.500.

Clarifies that "frequent care" or "constant supervision" are alternative tests. A combination of the two should not be used as the basis to justify payment of carer pension.

Update 474G # Date 21 September 1995

CHAPTER 45 - YOUTH TRAINING ALLOWANCE - Out of Region Lodgements - Youth Service Units. See guidelines 45.16100 to 45.16103.

Allows a young customer who is assigned a Youth Service Unit region code to attend their closest regional office for simple queries such as lodging their SU19.

Update 473G # Date 21 September 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Out of Region Lodgements - Youth Service Units. See guidelines 12.16100 to 12.16104.

Allows a young customer who is assigned a Youth Service Unit region code to attend their closest regional office for simple queries such as lodging their SU19.

Update 472G # Date 21 September 1995

CHAPTER 45 - YOUTH TRAINING ALLOWANCE - New Zealand Citizens moving to Australia. See guidelines 45.1210.

Removal of 45.5400 to 45.5401 and placed under 45.1200 to 45.1210.

Update 471G # Date 21 September 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Updated proof of identity guidelines. See guidelines 1.3000 to 1.3905.

General provisions for proof of identity (POI) and updating abridged regrant procedures and transfers between payments.

Update 470G # Date 21 September 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - Claims from current and former students. See guidelines 14.5020 to 14.5031.

Recipients of an Australian Postgraduate Award with a Stipend may be considered to have suffered a loss of income if they have to suspend their studies/research because of a temporary illness.

Update 469G # Date 21 September 1995

CHAPTER 24 - BEREAVEMENT PAYMENTS - Bereavement payments. See guidelines 24.000 to 24.7201.

This amendment replaces the entire chapter 24, which has been updated to reflect the new payments of partner and parenting allowance which were introduced from 1 July 1995.

Update 468G # Date 21 September 1995

CHAPTER 43 - PARTNER ALLOWANCE - Bereavement payments for partner allowees. See guidelines 43.4800 to 43.4803.

These changes relate to qualification for bereavement payments to partner allowees.

Update 467G # Date 21 September 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Assurance of Support - Recoverability and clarification. See guidelines 1) 1.9000 to 1.9011 2) 1.9100 to 1.9202 3) 1.9300 to 1.10005.

1) The effect of Assurances of Support on recoverability of PA, PgA, WA and YTA. Clarification of procedures for release of bonds paid by assurers.

2) Clarification of the date of effect of assurances of support. Additions regarding coding for PA. PA, WA and YTA where an assurance of support exists. Clarification of assurance of support period.

3) Clarification of new claim procedures in cases where an assurance of support exists. Changes resulting from PA, WA, PA and YTA being recoverable. Update of location of records and contacts resulting from devolution of State functions. Clarification of procedures for domestic violence cases. Changes to categories of persons exempt from newly arrived residents waiting period.

Update 466G # Date 7 September 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Special Assistance for the Older Unemployed. See guidelines 12.1400 to 12.1408.

There are a number of measures designed to assist the older unemployed including reduced reporting, changes to activity testing, allowed participation in voluntary work, entitlement to higher rates of payment, and access to other entitlements such as pharmaceutical allowance, telephone allowance and a Pensioner Concession Card. Other forms of income support include mature age allowance and widow allowance.

Update 465G # Date 7 September 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Activity Test Exemption for Refugees. See guideline 12.3310.

Refugees are now able to be exempted from the activity test for a maximum of 13 weeks during the first 13 weeks after they arrive in Australia.

Update 464G # Date 7 September 1995

CHAPTER 4 - NEGLIGENCE CLAIMS, ACT OF GRACE PAYMENTS - Deed of release. See guideline 4.11200.

Amendment to the Deed of Release to be used in settlement of finance direction 21/3 (negligence) and act of grace claims.

Update 463G # Date 7 September 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Payment pending review of a decision to impose a deferment period. See guidelines 12.10502 to 12.10505.

Payment may now be continued pending the outcome of a review of a decision to impose a deferment period. Guidelines have been set for the exercise of this discretion.

Update 462G # Date 7 September 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - Timing of reviews. See guideline 14.11000.

This change corrects the type of sickness allowance review that is conducted at 64 weeks from a mail review to a field review.

Update 461G # Date 7 September 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Application of financial hardship provisions- Rural Adjustment Scheme Certification.

These provisions lapsed on 30 November 1993 and are therefore no longer applicable and should be deleted from the Guide. Previously guideline 27.16500 to 27.16506.

Update 460G # Date 7 September 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - Assessment of medical evidence. See guidelines 14.8200.

This change updates the address for mail orders of the 'Sickness Allowance Medical Certificate' (Form SU415).

Update 459G # Date 7 September 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Self employment. See guidelines 12.250 to 12.265.

The Employment Secretary (or delegate in the Commonwealth Employment Service(CES)) may approve participation in activities that will lead to sustainable employment and financial independence or at least skills and experience that will assist the person in finding full-time employment.

Update 458G # Date 7 September 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Vocational training courses and labour market programs - approved activities. See guidelines 12.2600 to 12.2624.

Approved activities include certain English language courses for the period of the activity agreement. Customers undertaking courses longer than 4 weeks advised of alternate 'Application for Payment' (Form SU19) lodgement options.

Update 457G # Date 7 September 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Employment - earnings verification. See guidelines 27.8630 to 27.8635.

Earnings of a claimant or partner do not need verification where the declared amount is sufficient to preclude payment of benefit. The declared earnings may also be accepted without verification if they are consistent with the type of work performed in relation to the time worked and there is no reason to doubt their authenticity.

Update 456G # Date 7 September 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Customers can continue to be regarded as unemployed where casual earnings preclude payment for up to five fortnights. See guidelines 12.121 to 12.126.

After five fortnights a customer can have their payment continued if their income is reduced. Payment cannot be reinstated where earnings preclude payment for six or more fortnights.

Customers may engage in the development of, or participation in, a group or co-operative enterprise as part of an Activity Agreement. See guidelines 12.141 to 12.145.

Customers may engage in the development of, or participation in, a group or co-operative enterprise as part of an Activity Agreement with the Commonwealth Employment Service or a Case Management Agreement with an independent Contracted Case Manager.

Update 455G # Date 7 September 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Voluntary work - full time. See guidelines 12.402 to 12.403.

For customers over 18 and up to 64 who have a current Activity Agreement with the Commonwealth Employment Service, no restriction is placed on the duration of the full time voluntary work as long as the activity is approved.

Update 454G # Date 7 September 1995

CHAPTER 26 - EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION PAYMENTS - 1) Eligibility choices where customer has casual work expected to last less than 12 weeks. 2)Employment Entry Payment is not income tested. Guideline covers Youth Training Allowance (YTA) as well.

1) Where casual work is expected to last less than 12 weeks customers can choose to keep lodging forms SU19 or to have their payment cancelled and apply for Employment Entry Payment (EEP) - see guidelines 26.1100 to 26.1107.

2) Minor amendment to guidelines- see guidelines 26.1200 to 26.1201.

Update 453G # Date 7 September 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Continuation forms - exemption/temporary exemption from personal lodgement. See guidelines 12.15300 to 12.15401 and 12.15800 to 12.15805.

Customers may be exempted/temporarily exempted from personal lodgement of their continuation form where they are engaged in an approved activity or are working on their due-to-lodge date.

Update 452G # Date 7 September 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Abbreviated claim procedures where reclaiming within 26 weeks of cancellation. See guidelines 12.13900 to 12.13911 and 12.13931.

Customers reclaiming allowance within 26 weeks of cancellation of their last payment are eligible for abbreviated claim procedures.

Update 451G # Date 7 September 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Verification of approved activities. See guideline 12.17900.

Text change only - client to customer.

Update 450G # Date 7 September 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Casual employment. See guideline 12.17200.

Customers can continue to be regarded as unemployed where casual earnings preclude payment for up to five fortnights.

Update 449G # Date 24 August 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Income test treatment of 'Packaged' investments. See guidelines 27.14450 to 27.14455.

In 1994/95, several Friendly Societies passed resolutions to amend the Friendly Society Rules that govern certain policies. Under the Friendly Society Act, varying a Rule does not necessarily create a new contract but merely varies the existing contract. Accordingly, switching from any saved investment into other sub-funds within the one Friendly Society contract does not constitute a realisation under section 9(10) of the Act.

Update 448G # Date 24 August 1995

CHAPTER 42 - PORTABILITY AND COMPARABLE FOREIGN PAYMENTS - Reviews on portable payments - avoiding cancellation of pension etc. See guidelines 42.820 to 42.823.

If wife pensioners overseas experience a temporary increase in income, wife pension is to be suspended rather than cancelled.

Update 447G # Date 24 August 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Commencement of full time study - payment to customer may continue. See guideline 12.5310.

Customers participating in Commonwealth Employment Service approved courses of up to 12 months duration, which would normally attract payment under a prescribed education scheme such as AUSTUDY, may continue to receive payment subject to normal requirements.

Update 446G # Date 24 August 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Superannuation and rollover investments. See guideline 27.13182.

This amendment gives a further explanation on the treatment of superannuation salary sacrifices for customers over retirement age.

Update 445G # Date 24 August 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Change in deeming rate. See guideline 27.11310.

The Minister announced, with effect from 1 July 1995, a change in the deeming rate from 4% to 5%.

Update 444G # Date 24 August 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Vocational training courses and labour market programs. See guidelines 12.2600 to 12.2782.

These changes reflect the current situation with the treatment of labour market programs, including entitlement to EEPs and reclaiming.

Update 443G # Date 24 August 1995

CHAPTER 42 - PORTABILITY AND COMPARABLE FOREIGN PAYMENTS - Portability - portability restriction for certain pensions and allowances - wife and widow B pension. See guideline 42.247.

Autonomous wife pensioners overseas may transfer to agreement entitlement after 1 July 1995 without having to lodge a claim.

Update 442G # Date 24 August 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Failure to attend or contact for an interview. See guidelines 12.9100 to 12.9101.

The sections of the Act referred to in chapters 12.9100 to 12.9101 have been deleted from the Guide. Correct Act references 546C.(1) and 630C.(1) have been included.

Update 441G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 2 - METHODS OF PAYMENT AND TAXATION. Eligibility for early cheque payment. See guideline 2.3601.

Definition added to special or unusual circumstances.

Update 440G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 23 - ADDITIONAL PAYMENTS - Telephone allowance. See guideline 23.4302.

People who subscribe to the new service from Telstra known as INCONTACT, are regarded as telephone subscribers for the purposes of telephone allowance.

Update 439G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 39 - MATURE AGE ALLOWANCE - Waiver of CES registration. See guidelines 39.650 to 39.651.

Details change to CES registration waiver discretion in 660XBF for persons transferring from another DSS/DVA income support payment.

Update 438G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Savings provision for rent assistance. See guideline 27.2852.

Correction of guideline reference re rent assistance savings provision.

Update 437G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Textile, clothing and footwear special allowance. See guidelines 27.8400 to 27.8402.

Amendment to reflect policy change following legal clarification of Textile, Clothing and Footwear Special Allowance (TCFSA) activity test issues.

Update 436G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Asset valuation of commercial bills. See guidelines 27.15430 to 27.15435.

The face value of commercial bills is the value to be maintained under the assets test.

Update 435G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 2 - METHODS OF PAYMENT AND TAXATION - Timing of payments. See guidelines 2.2000 to 2.3008.

Amendments to reflect income test and partner changes associated with White Paper implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 434G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Sale of home and purchase of another. See guidelines 27.18830 to 27.18837.

To provide a clearer picture of how proceeds from the sale of a home should be treated under the income and asset test.

Update 433G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Asset valuation of business goodwill. See guidelines 27.15813 to 27.15814.

Where a client can clearly demonstrate that the value of purchased business goodwill is lower than the value shown in the business records because the business is non-viable and is being wound up, or is running at a loss and cannot be sold as a going concern, the purchased goodwill can be ignored.

Update 432G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 45 - YOUTH TRAINING ALLOWANCE - Basic qualifications - partnered claimants. See guidelines 45.900 to 45.903.

Amendments to reflect income test and partner changes associated with White Paper implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 431G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 26 - EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION PAYMENTS - EEP income test. See guideline 26.1200.

Amendments to reflect income test and partner changes associated with White Paper implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 430G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Definition and assessment of income types. See guideline 27.9310.

Amendments to reflect income test and partner changes associated with White Paper implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 429G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Definition and assessment of income types. See guidelines 27.8695 to 27.8696.

Amendments to reflect income test and partner changes associated with White Paper implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 428G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Components of maximum rates - general. See guidelines 27.1000 to 27.1001.

Amendments to reflect partner changes associated with White Paper implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 427G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Basic Qualifications - Partnered claimants. See guidelines 12.800 to 12.801.

Amendments to reflect partner changes associated with White Paper implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 426G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Reviews and notification:

• Change of address. See guideline 1.18602;
• Anonymous information and complaints. See guidelines 1.18900 to 1.18901; and
• Age reviews. See guideline 1.19000 to 1.19003.

Amendments to reflect partner changes associated with White Paper implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 425G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 15 - SPECIAL BENEFIT - Administration of Continuing Payments - Payment of special benefit during temporary absence overseas. See guideline 15.4402.

Amendments to reflect income test and partner changes for White Paper implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 424G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Reviews and notification. See guideline 1.17100 to 1.17501 and 1.18000 to 1.18312.

Amendments to reflect partner changes associated with White Paper implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 423G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 23 - ADDITIONAL PAYMENTS - Rent Assistance - Date of Commencement. See guideline 23.206.

Amendments to reflect income test and partner changes associated with White Paper implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 422G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Interviews - claimant born overseas. See guideline 1.2910.

Amendments to reflect partner changes associated with White Paper implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 421G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Interview streaming procedures. See guideline 1.2003.

Amendments to reflect partner changes associated with White Paper implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 420G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Lodgement of Claims. See guidelines 1.1310 to 1.1414.

Amendments to reflect partner changes associated with White Paper implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 419G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Assessment of income. See guidelines 27.8105 to 27.8115.

Income test update to reflect White Paper implementation (Allowance Income Test) effective from 1 July 1995; also amendments to AUSTUDY information to reflect previous changes in assessment.

Update 418G # Date 10 August 1995

CHAPTER 45 - YOUTH TRAINING ALLOWANCE - CDEP participant - YTA partner assessment. See guidelines 45.390 to 45.391.

Update of CDEP assessment information to reflect White Paper changes to the Allowance Income Test from 1 July 1995.

Update 417G # Date 13 July 1995

CHAPTER 41 - PARENTING ALLOWANCE - New chapter. see guidelines 41.000 to 41.14100.

Parenting Allowance (PgA) is a new payment (available from 1 July 1995) that was announced in the White Paper on Employment and Growth in May 1994. PgA replaces Home Child Care Allowance (HCCA), and although the PgA chapter will replace the HCCA chapter, the HCCA chapter will remain available until at least the end of September 1995 to allow processing of outstanding claims.

Update 416G # Date 13 July 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Partner allowance and income test update to reflect changes for White Paper implementation from 1 July 1995. See guidelines 12.11500 and 12.11700 to 12.11701.

Changes to reflect White Paper implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 415G # Date 13 July 1995

CHAPTER 15 - SPECIAL BENEFIT - Carer. See guidelines 15.2704 to 15.2705.

Clarifying that under 16 clients should be included in 'caring for child' special benefit category and 16 year old and over and incapacitated should be included in 'caring for incapacitated person' special benefit category.

Update 414G # Date 13 July 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Partner allowance and income test. See guidelines 12.19100 to 12.19105.

Amendments to reflect previous changes as well as those associated with White Paper Implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 413G # Date 13 July 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Partner allowance and income test. See guideline 12.18140.

Changes to reflect White Paper Implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 412G # Date 13 July 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Partner and Parenting allowance. See guidelines 1.13300 to 1.14006.

Amendments to reflect changes associated with White Paper Implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 411G # Date 13 July 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Partner allowance and income test. See guidelines 27.7400 to 27.7408.

Changes to reflect White Paper Implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 410G # Date 13 July 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Employment entry payment. See guideline 27.6600.

Correction of an inaccurate payment amount in the Guide.

Update 409G # Date 13 July 1995

CHAPTER 26 - EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION PAYMENTS - Changes to education entry payment (EdEP) for White Paper Implementation from 1 July 1995. See guidelines 26.5000 to 26.6300.

Update 408G # Date 13 July 1995

CHAPTER 4 - NEGLIGENCE CLAIMS, ACT OF GRACE PAYMENTS - Changes for White Paper Implementation from 1 July 1995. See guideline 4.6300.

Amendments to reflect changes associated with White Paper Implementation dealing with breaches of duty of care, effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 407G # Date 13 July 1995

CHAPTER 45 - YOUTH TRAINING ALLOWANCE - Changes to LEAP, and income test for White Paper Implementation from 1 July 1995. See guidelines 45.2660 to 45.2684.

Amendments to reflect previous Landcare and Environment Action Program (LEAP) changes and changes associated with White Paper Implementation effective from 1 July 1995.

Update 406G # Date 13 July 1995

CHAPTER 15 - SPECIAL BENEFIT - Direct deduction income test. See guidelines 15.1101 to 15.1106.

Personal income test to apply to special benefit/allowance couples instead of joint income test from 1 July 1995.

Update 405G # Date 13 July 1995

CHAPTER 42 - PORTABILITY AND COMPARABLE FOREIGN PAYMENTS - Pensioners going to New Zealand. See guideline 42.163.

Corrects spelling mistake.

Update 404G # Date 13 July 1995

CHAPTER 6 - DISABILITY SUPPORT PENSION - Portability of disability support pension. See guidelines 6.3200 to 6.3212.

Advises that special conditions apply to disability support pensioners who travel to New Zealand and refers reader to appropriate section of the Guide.

Update 403G # Date 13 July 1995

CHAPTER 47 - DROUGHT RELIEF PAYMENT - New Chapter . See guidelines 47.000 to 471800.

This chapter outlines the policy and procedures to be followed for the administration of Drought Relief Payment.

Update 402G # Date 29 June 1995

CHAPTER 43 - PARTNER ALLOWANCE - Chapter 43 rewrite. See guidelines 43.000 to 43.5100.

Rewrite of chapter 43 to incorporate White Paper changes to Partner Allowance from 1 July 1995.

Update 401G # Date 29 June 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Business Losses. See guidelines 27.8530 to 27.8532.

Losses from one business may be offset against the profits from another business where both businesses are involved in related activities.

Update 400G # Date 15 June 1995

CHAPTER 9 - SOLE PARENT PENSION - Phase out of wife pension. See guideline 9.2100.

Deletes reference to wife pension as a payment alternative.

Update 399G # Date 15 June 1995

CHAPTER 8 - CARER PENSION - Phase out of wife pension. See guideline 8.2804.

Deletes reference to wife pension as a payment option.

Update 398G # Date 15 June 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Phase out of wife pension. See guideline 1.8011.

Deletes reference to wife pension as a potential payment type.

Update 397G # Date 15 June 1995

CHAPTER 7 - WIFE PENSION - Phase out of wife pension. See guidelines 7.001, 7.100 to 7.200, 7.600 and 7.2502.

Details of phase out of wife pension.

Update 396G # Date 15 June 1995

CHAPTER 5 - AGE PENSION - Women's age pension age. See guidelines 5.000 to 5.050.

Details implementation timetable and change in qualification rules for women's age pension age.

Update 395G # Date 15 June 1995

CHAPTER 39 - MATURE AGE ALLOWANCE - mature age partner allowance. See guidelines 39.2001 to 39.2002 and 39.2300.

Phase out of mature age partner allowance.

Update 393G # Date 15 June 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - International agreements - Canada. See guideline 27.9146.

Removal of reference to 'Canada' desk in IOB, Hobart.

Update 392G & 394G # Date 15 June 1995

CHAPTER 40 - DISABILITY WAGE SUPPLEMENT - Relaxed residency rules for refugees. See guidelines 40.200, 40.770 and 40.1000.

Relaxation of DSP and DWS residency requirements to allow refugees to qualify for payments without satisfying the ten year residency rule.

Update 390G & 391G # Date 15 June 1995

CHAPTER 6 - DISABILITY SUPPORT PENSION - Relaxed residency rules for refugees. See guidelines 6.200, 6.770 and 6.900.

Relaxation of DSP and DWS residency requirements to allow refugees to qualify for payments without satisfying the ten year residency rule.

Update 389G # Date 15 June 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Newstart allowance reviews. See guidelines 12.19200 to 12.19222.

The joint DSS/CES interviews conducted with clients after 36 months unemployment have been abolished.

Update 388G # Date 15 June 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Established date of breach. See guideline 12.10600.

The date of breach for voluntary unemployment and misconduct as a worker has been clarified as date last worked plus one day. The date of breach for non-attendance at an IRM review interview has been changed to date of event in line with administrative breach provisions.

Update 387G # Date 15 June 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Landcare and Environment Action Program (LEAP). See guideline 12.2744.

An incorrect section of the Act was previously quoted as exempting LEAP payments as income.

Update 386G # Date 15 June 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Lockouts. See guideline 12.1050.

The effect of lockouts in industrial disputes is a complex matter and should be resolved at a policy administration level. As such, this section has been removed to avoid confusion arising in the network.

Update 385G # Date 15 June 1995

CHAPTER 13 - FARM HOUSEHOLD SUPPORT - Rate of farm household support (FHS). See guideline 13.5000.

Advises that the maximum rate payable to partnered FHS recipients is the combined job search allowance and partner allowance rates.

Update 384G # Date 15 June 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Continuation forms - Form SU19. See guideline 12.16103.

Forms SU19 lodged out of office can now be stored in the paying office.

Update 383G # Date 18 May 1995

CHAPTER 4 - NEGLIGENCE CLAIMS, ACT OF GRACE PAYMENTS - Examples of where a claim might be successful under Finance Direction 21/3 on the basis of negligent advice. See guideline 4.6100.

Deletes an incorrect example of where a claim might be successful under Finance Direction 21/3 on the basis of negligent advice.

Update 382G # Date 18 May 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Historical rates of payment - conversion rate - United Kingdom to Australian. See guideline 27.2610.

Exchange rates listed for 19 December 1991, 26 March 1992, 18 June 1992 and 24 September 1992 have been corrected.

Update 381G # Date 18 May 1995

CHAPTER 42 - PORTABILITY AND COMPARABLE FOREIGN PAYMENTS - Comparable foreign payments - legislation - reasonable action. See guidelines 42.2050 to 42.2051.

Under the comparable foreign payment provisions, reasonable action to obtain an overseas pensioner at the highest rate possible does not involve having to seek increases in overseas pensions which become available if pensioners are in the paying country if they are visiting the paying country for less than 12 months.

Update 380G # Date 18 May 1995

CHAPTER 36 - MEMBER OF A COUPLE - Determination of member of a couple: Separation under one roof examination and investigation. See guidelines 36.600 to 36.609.

The change is an editorial improvement to the description of relationship breakdown in a clause related to assessing separation under one roof.

Update 379G # Date 18 May 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Assessment of insurance bonds. See guidelines 27.12810 to 27.12816.

Distribution reinvestments and/or regular contributions made to insurance bond savings plans after 9 September 1988 which relate to a market linked investment purchased prior to that date are also treated as saved investments.

Update 378G # Date 18 May 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - All DSS payments, rates, limits, thresholds, etc. See guidelines 27.2920 to 27.4200.

The sections affected were out of date by one year or more, due to changes to rates because of indexation and ad hoc changes. New sections were created for some of the new payments, limits and thresholds introduced which had never been included at all.

Update 377G # Date 27 April 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Stand down or suspension from work - person may be unemployed. See guidelines 12.115 to 12.117.

A person may be considered as unemployed if they are stood down or suspended from work under certain conditions.

Update 376G # Date 27 April 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Deferment periods waiting period. See guidelines 12.8400 to 12.8403.

Deferment periods can no longer be served concurrently with waiting periods. As such, any deferment period which imposed due to a breach which occurs during a newly arrived migrant waiting period must be served after the waiting period has expired.

Update 375G # Date 27 April 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Waiting and Deferment Periods 'Reduction of education leavers waiting period due to previous casual or part time employment. See guidelines 12.7710 to 12.7712.

The sections of the Act referred to in guideline 12.7710 currently state that an education waiting period cannot last more than six months. It should be referring to reduction of waiting periods for part time work and how to calculate the reduction (see subsections 541(5A) to 541(5C)).

Update 374G # Date 27 April 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Asset valuation of governing directors shares held in a private company. See guidelines 27.15600 to 27.15609.

How to assess the asset value of particular shares in a private company that confers greater voting powers to the shareholder than other issued share types.

Update 373G # Date 27 April 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Old payments, rates, limits, thresholds, savings provisions, etc. See guidelines 27.2750 to 27.2870.

Minor corrections of information on old rates and methods.

Update 372G # Date 27 April 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Employer provided benefits, Net rental property losses. See guidelines 27.25276, 27.25288 to 27.25296 and 27.25300 to 27.25308.

Members of the Defence Force are exempt from having certain employer provided benefits assessed as income.

Update 371G # Date 27 April 1995

CHAPTER 15 - SPECIAL BENEFIT - Long term available funds test. See guideline 15.1002.

Changed the word 'asset' to '$5,000' to clarify that special benefit cannot be paid for long term categories if the customer has more than $5,000 available funds and that the claim should be rejected.

Update 370G # Date 27 April 1995

CHAPTER 17 - FAMILY PAYMENT - Payment of additional family payment (AFP) overseas. See guideline 17.2300.

This change allows for AFP to be paid for up to 13 weeks while a parent is temporarily overseas as long as the child remains in Australia.

Update 369G # Date 27 April 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Family payment reassessments. See guidelines 27.27210 to 27.27215.

One sentence deleted from paragraph concerning reassessments and updates of examples.

Update 368G # Date 27 April 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Identification. See guidelines 1.9100 to 1.9105.

Updating Division and Section name and fax number for assurance of support requests and including the word 'entry' before permit to clarify what type of permit.

Update 367G # Date 27 April 1995

CHAPTER 38 - CHILD SUPPORT - Reasonable action for child support - Stage 2. See guidelines 38.4529 to 38.7005 and 38.9000 to 38.9300.

Delegation for decision to cancel sole parent pension and/or additional family payment due to failure to take reasonable action varied to the ASO5 level or above. Deletion of Pseudo Assessment section. Confidentiality of information part rewritten. Minor amendments to some wording.

Update 366G # Date 6 April 1995

CHAPTER 38 - CHILD SUPPORT - Definitions. See guidelines 38.000 to 38.2580.

Minor amendments to wording in definitions and some changes to procedures.

Update 364G # Date 6 April 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Maintenance income test. See guidelines 27.20100 to 27.21509.

Clarification of maintenance income test (see guidelines 27.20104 to 27.20105). Client notification obligations (see guidelines 27.20106 to 27.20108). Update of Maintenance income test free area and revision of reconciliation examples (see guidelines 27.20500 to 27.20505, 27.21102 to 27.21105, 27.21263, 27.21310 and 27.21406). Changes to the CSA accounting system and the effect it may have on customers AFP entitlement and affecting AFP paydays for 1995 (see guidelines 27.20600 and 27.20611 to 27.20613). Minor amendment of assessment for non-cash maintenance (see guidelines 27.21211 to 27.21212).

Update 363G and 365G # Date 6 April 1995

CHAPTER 38 - CHILD SUPPORT - Clients with court orders or registered agreements. See guidelines 38.3221 and 38.4500 to 38.4502.

Minor amendment clarifying when to assess payment from trusts.

Update 361G and 362G # Date 6 April 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Assessing company issued or exchange traded options. See guidelines 27.15575 to 27.15576 and 27.12085 to 27.12175.

Company issued options should only have their asset value assessed. The asset value is based on the last sale price at the time of assessment. Details of the last sale price are available from the Financial Review or the Stock Exchange Journal. Exchange traded options are generally not income or asset tested. However, if a client requests a review, contact your State Investment Income and Assets Policy Section (II&APS). If a person is an options trader, you should refer the details to your State II&APS.

Update 360G # Date 6 April 1995

CHAPTER 38 - CHILD SUPPORT - Proof of parentage. See guidelines 38.4007, 38.4305 and 38.4308.

Aboriginal and Islander Liaison Officer (AILO) role in remote communities and procedures for requesting Statutory Declaration from non-custodial parent (NCP).

Update 359G # Date 6 April 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Earnings credit account balance. See guidelines 27.17520 to 27.17530.

Deletion of reference to maintenance.

Update 358G # Date 6 April 1995

CHAPTER 9 - SOLE PARENT PENSION - Earnings credit scheme. See guideline 9.3200.

Minor amendment due to change to maintenance income test 1 January 1993.

Update 357G # Date 6 April 1995

CHAPTER 4 - NEGLIGENCE CLAIMS, ACT OF GRACE PAYMENTS - Negligent advice. See guideline 4.6100.

Minor deletion to text.

Update 356G # Date 6 April 1995

CHAPTER 8 - CARER PENSION - Rate of carer pension. See guidelines 8.2800 to 2.2805.

Married rate pension paid if person is a member of a couple.

Update 355G # Date 23 March 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - 16 to 17 year olds - qualification for sickness allowance. See guideline 14.3400 to 14.3403.

Sickness allowance can be paid to claimants aged 16 to 17 years in certain circumstances.

Update 354G # Date 23 March 1995

CHAPTER 15 - SPECIAL BENEFIT - Special Benefit and New Zealanders. See guideline 15.2200.

Inserted the conditions New Zealanders may be paid Special Benefit during the first 6 months in Australia. The conditions are Job Search or Sickness Allowance.

Update 353G # Date 23 March 1995

CHAPTER 6 - DISABILITY SUPPORT PENSION - Administration of continuing payments - severe disability. See guideline 6.3212.

Clarification of conditions for payment of DSP to non-severely disabled persons overseas.

Update 352G # Date 9 March 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Standard verification procedures - verification of permanent blindness. See guidelines 1.6400 to 1.6404.

Claimants who apply for an age/disability support pension on the basis of blindness are requested to provide a report from a treating ophthalmologist or from a blind society or association to support their application in accordance with standard verification procedures.

Update 351G # Date 9 March 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Dependent rate of allowance. See guideline 12.11050.

The higher rate of allowance is payable if a person has a child 16 to 17 years old, the child is receiving job search allowance or youth training allowance and is substantially dependent on the person in that the child receives the lower 'at home' rate of payment.

Update 350G # Date 9 March 1995

CHAPTER 2 - METHODS OF PAYMENT AND TAXATION - Taxability of DSS payments. See guidelines 2.8000 to 2.8004.

These changes update the references to taxable and non-taxable DSS payments.

Update 349G # Date 9 March 1995

CHAPTER 6 - DISABILITY SUPPORT PENSION - Standard verification procedures - verification of permanent blindness. See guideline 6.800 to 6.807.

Claimants who apply for an age/disability support pension on the basis of blindness are requested to provide a report from a treating ophthalmologist or from a blind society or association to support their application in accordance with standard verification procedures.

Update 348G # Date 9 March 1995

CHAPTER 23 - ADDITIONAL PAYMENTS - RENT ASSISTANCE, PHARMACEUTICAL ALLOWANCE, TELEPHONE ALLOWANCE, REMOTE AREA ALLOWANCE - Remote area allowance. See guidelines 23.4900 to 23.6003.

These changes clarify and update the legislative references to bereavement payments and remote area allowance.

Update 347G # Date 9 March 1995

CHAPTER 26 - EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION PAYMENTS - Inclusion of eligible widow allowance recipients. See guidelines 26.5000 to 26.6302.

Widow allowance recipients can qualify for an education entry payment by meeting similar requirements to job search and newstart allowance clients.

Update 346G # Date 9 March 1995

CHAPTER 23 - ADDITIONAL PAYMENTS - RENT ASSISTANCE, PHARMACEUTICAL ALLOWANCE, TELEPHONE ALLOWANCE, REMOTE AREA ALLOWANCE - Telephone allowance. See guidelines 23.4000 to 23.4002 and 23.4410 to 23.4413.

These changes update and clarify qualification criteria and general background information about telephone allowance.

Update 345G # Date 9 March 1995

CHAPTER 26 - EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION PAYMENTS - (1) Employment entry payment. See guideline 26.000. Inclusion of eligible widow allowance recipients. See guidelines 26.1000 to 26.1801.

(1) Widow allowance recipients can qualify for an employment entry payment.

(2) Widow allowance recipients can qualify for an employment entry payment by meeting similar requirements to job search and newstart allowance clients.

Update 344G # Date 9 March 1995

CHAPTER 23 - ADDITIONAL PAYMENTS - RENT ASSISTANCE, INCENTIVE ALLOWANCE, PHARMACEUTICAL ALLOWANCE, TELEPHONE ALLOWANCE - Inclusion of widow allowance recipients as being eligible for pharmaceutical allowance. See guideline 23.2000.

Pharmaceutical allowance is now payable in respect of eligible widow allowance recipients.

Update 343G # Date 9 March 1995

CHAPTER 2 - METHODS OF PAYMENT AND TAXATION - Taxability of bereavement payments. See guideline 2.9300 to 2.9311.

These changes outline tax treatment of bereavement payments and, in particular, describe how to work out the tax-free amount of the lump sum payment.

Update 342G # Date 9 March 1995

CHAPTER 37 - COMPENSATION RECOVERY - Inclusion of widow allowance as a 'compensation affected payment'. See guideline 37.000.

Widow allowance has been included as a 'compensation affected payment' under part 3.14 of the Act.

Update 341G # Date 9 March 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Liquid assets test waiting period. See guidelines 12.7500 to 12.7503 and 12.7520.

1) These amendments set out the basis for applying the liquid assets test waiting period and when the waiting period is waived for transferees and those who have commenced an approved activity.

2) Persons are not subject to the liquid assets test waiting period if their liquid assets are below either $5000 for singles or $10000 for couples and single period with children. Under the waiting period waiver provisions there are allowable deductions in the person's liquid assets which may reduce their total liquid assets below the $5000 or $10000 maximum reserves.

Update 340G # Date 9 March 1995

CHAPTER 42 - PORTABILITY AND COMPARABLE FOREIGN PAYMENTS - Working life residence. See guidelines 42.630 to 42.631.

Simplification of guideline concerning calculation of working life residence for widows.

Update 339G # Date 9 March 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Rent Assistance. See guidelines 1.5400 to 1.5451.

These changes emphasise the importance of document integrity for Rent Assistance purposes and the need to pay particular attention to shared accommodation arrangements.

Update 338G # Date 23 February 1995

CHAPTER 20 - MOBILITY ALLOWANCE - Need for a medical report. See guidelines 20.400 to 20.403.

Description of the Mobility Allowance report (MA2).

Update 337G # Date 23 February 1995

CHAPTER 42 - PORTABILITY AND COMPARABLE FOREIGN PAYMENTS - Wife pensions. See guidelines 42.240 to 42.247.

Minor editing of heading in guideline 42.240 and information about the phasing out of wife pension in guideline 42.247.

Update 336G # Date 23 February 1995

CHAPTER 42 - PORTABILITY AND COMPARABLE FOREIGN PAYMENTS - (1) Notification of recipient going overseas. See guideline 42.140. (2) Bereavement Allowance. See guideline 42.120. (3) Portability Arrangements New Zealand and United Kingdom. See guidelines 42.130 to 42.132.

(1) Recipient notification notices now state that pensioners must notify DSS within 14 days of deciding to go overseas. Information products, such as the Handbook and Age Pension News, point out that 6 to 8 weeks notice would be helpful to DSS.

(2) Bereavement allowance is not covered under the Agreement with New Zealand and its portability is not affected by the portability restrictions of the Agreement.

(3) The amendment stresses that the Agreements with New Zealand and the United Kingdom do not have general portability provisions like Australia's other Agreements.

Update 335G # Date 23 February 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Moving superannuation monies between superannuation investments. See guidelines 27.13190 to 27.13192.

Clarification of the treatment of amounts moved from one superannuation investment to another.

Update 334G # Date 23 February 1995

CHAPTER 42 - PORTABILITY AND COMPARABLE FOREIGN PAYMENTS - (1) Portability - pre departure arrangements. See guideline 42.420. (2) Portability - pre departure arrangements. See guidelines 42.440 to 42.444. (3) Portability - Wife pensions. See guideline 42.450. (4) Portability - sole parent and widow B. See guidelines 42.510 to 42.521.

(1) Departure certificates can be issued only when portability is confirmed.

(2) DSP portability is not to be delayed pending the results of a pre-departure medical examination.

(3) Wife pension portability should not be approved until a decision is made on portability of the husband's pension.

(4) Clarifies that de jure widows in receipt of sole parent pension or widow B pension are not subject to proportional portability after 12 months absence.

Update 333G # Date 23 February 1995

CHAPTER 42 - PORTABILITY AND COMPARABLE FOREIGN PAYMENTS - (1) Portability - method of payment. See guidelines 42.740 to 42.742. (2) Portability - pre-departure arrangements. See guidelines 42.450 to 42.751. (3) Portability - payment arrangements. See guideline 42.780.

(1) Portability payments to pensioners in Ireland are made in pounds sterling and the IOB decides if a long term portable pension may be paid in Australia.

(2) Portability should not be delayed pending the results of a pre-departure medical examination.

(3) Records should not be transferred to the IOB until long term portability is determined.

Update 332G # Date 23 February 1995

CHAPTER 42 - PORTABILITY AND COMPARABLE FOREIGN PAYMENTS - (1) Monitoring the CFP legislation. See guidelines 42.2400 to 42.2401. (2) Applying the CFP legislation. See guidelines 42.2500 to 42.2501.

(1) Monitoring the CFP legislation for widow allowance.

(2) Reference inserted to the completion of Module O in relation to Form SU16 (widow allowance).

Update 331G # Date 23 February 1995

CHAPTER 42 - PORTABILITY AND COMPARABLE FOREIGN PAYMENTS - (1) CFP and widow allowance. See guidelines 42.2000 to 42.2001. (2) CFP, widow allowance and blind pensioners. See guidelines 42.2010 to 42.2014.

(1) Extension of the comparable foreign payment provisions to widow allowance.

(2) Extension of the comparable foreign payment provisions to widow allowance and procedures for obtaining CFP assessment information from blind claimants.

Update 330G # Date 23 February 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Completion of Module O by widow allowance claimants. See guideline 1.2910.

Widow allowance claimants are affected by the comparable foreign payment provisions. Module O must therefore be completed if a claimant discloses on the claim form (SU16) that she has lived outside Australia.

Update 329G # Date 23 February 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Pension claims under Agreements with New Zealand and United Kingdom. See guidelines 1.8900 to 1.8904.

The amendment stresses that Regional Offices continue to process claims for Australian pensions lodged under the Agreements with New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

Update 328G # Date 9 February 1995

CHAPTER 45 - YOUTH TRAINING ALLOWANCE - new chapter . See guidelines 45.000 to 45.20001.

Introduction of new payment for unemployed under 18 year olds - replacing JSA under 18. Legislation is contained in the Student and Youth Assistance Act 1973.

Update 327G # Date 9 February 1995

CHAPTER 46 - WIDOW ALLOWANCE - new chapter. See guidelines 46.000 to 46.3304.

Widow allowance is a new payment available to older women who lose the support of their partner later in life and who have no recent workforce experience. Widow allowance became payable from 1 January 1995.

Update 326G # Date 9 February 1995

CHAPTER 39 - MATURE AGE ALLOWANCE - Residency requirements for payment of mature age partner allowance.. See guidelines 39.2400 to 39.2401.

To be eligible for mature age partner allowance, a claimant must be an 'Australian resident', as defined in section 7(1) of the Act.

Update 325G # Date 9 February 1995

CHAPTER 2 - METHODS OF PAYMENT AND TAXATION - Taxability of mature age allowance and mature age partner allowance. See guidelines 2.8000 to 2.8003.

Mature age allowance is taxable. Mature age partner allowance is not taxable for the 1993-94 and 1994-95 financial years. Mature Age Partner Allowance will become taxable from 1 July 1995.

Update 324G # Date 9 February 1995

CHAPTER 25 - NON-CASH BENEFITS - Eligibility criteria for CAAS. See guidelines 25.20300 to 25.20305.

New section concerning client eligibility for assistance to buy care items for people who have a permanent bladder or bowel condition.

Update 323G # Date 9 February 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Life Interests. See guidelines 27.15200 to 27.15201.

Assessment of life interest under the asset test if life interest created by deceased partner's Will in respect of deaths on or after 19 May 1994.

Update 322G # Date 9 February 1995

CHAPTER 6 - DISABILITY SUPPORT PENSION - Eligibility criteria for CAAS. See guidelines 6.5200 to 6.5205.

New section concerning client eligibility for assistance to buy care items for people who have a permanent bladder or bowel condition.

Update 321G # Date 9 February 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Exempt assets - house and curtilage. See guidelines 27.15000 to 27.15014.

A larger than average houseblock, which may have a separate title, but is less than two hectares in area can still be considered as part of the exempt curtilage.

Update 320G # Date 9 February 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Excluded income. See guidelines 27.9400 to 27.9401.

The Guide currently gives explanations of some types of excluded income, but by no means all. Staff should acquaint themselves with all the categories contained in subsection 8(8) of the Act.

Update 319G # Date 9 February 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Hardship - unrealisable assets. See guideline 27.16165.

Correction of rate for calculating notional income for JSA from $0.75 to $1.00.

Update 318G # Date 9 February 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - War widow's pension. See guidelines 27.7210 to 27.7227.

War widow's pension - effect on social security pensions since November 1986.

Update 317G # Date 9 February 1995

CHAPTER 17 - FAMILY PAYMENT - Companies. See guideline 17.9400.

Directors and shareholders of private companies are not employers.

Update 316G # Date 9 February 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Assessment of investment income. See guidelines 27.13900 to 27.13909.

Clarification of amounts allowable as a deduction of investment and disposal costs.

Update 315G # Date 9 February 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURE inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Valuation procedures. See guideline 1.6200.

The procedures for seeking Australian Valuation Office valuations of real estate prior to grant of pension, benefit or allowance are clarified and expanded to cover situations where hardship is likely because of valuation delays.

Update 314G # Date 9 February 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Valuation procedures. See guidelines 27.15920 to 27.15928.

The procedures for seeking Australian Valuation Office valuations of real estate prior to grant of pension, benefit or allowance are clarified and expanded to cover situations where hardship is likely because of valuation delays.

Update 313G # Date 9 February 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Income review - employment - earnings credit. See guidelines 27.17510 to 27.17519.

To include carer pension in list of "eligible pensions" that recipients of which are able to have an earnings credit account. Implementation of carer pensioners eligible for earnings credits occurred 1 July 1993. Updating guideline to reflect initiative.

Update 312G # Date 9 February 1995

CHAPTER 14 - SICKNESS ALLOWANCE - Claims from current and former students. See guidelines 14.5000 to 14.5021.

From 1 January 1995 a loss of AUSTUDY or ABSTUDY will be accepted as a loss of income for sickness allowance.

Update 311G # Date 26 January 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - The Deposit Accounts and Direct Investments System (SAV). See guidelines 27.11000 to 27.11304.

Details of clients' at-call deposit accounts in banks, building societies and credit unions and other direct investments are recorded on the Deposit Accounts and Direct Investments System (SAV). The SAV facility has two sub-facilities. The At-Call Deposit Account Facility that has a data base of interest rates for at-call accounts available from financial institutions in Australia. The Other Direct Investment Facility records other direct investments such as bonds and term deposits. This sub-facility is not linked to a data base of interest rates. Minor changes also made to the details about home loan offset accounts.

Update 310G # Date 26 January 1995

CHAPTER 22 - CHILDCARE ASSISTANCE - Childcare Assistance . See guidelines 22.000 to 22.4101.

The key changes are in relation to notification and re-application provisions, net rental property losses and estimates of base year income.

Update 309G # Date 26 January 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Breaches and deferment periods. See guidelines 12.9000 to 12.9001.

Breaches of Social Security Act have been re-categorised. Deferment periods arising from breaches have also been changed. Minor changes in terminology relating to breaches and deferment periods. Relationship between deferment periods and waiting periods has changed.

Update 308G # Date 26 January 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Breaches and deferment periods. See guideline 12.7200.

Breaches of Social Security Act have been re-categorised. Deferment periods arising from breaches have also been changed. Minor changes in terminology relating to breaches and deferment periods. Relationship between deferment periods and waiting periods has changed.

Update 307G # Date 26 January 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Breaches and deferment periods. See guidelines 12.7000 to 12.7003.

Breaches of Social Security Act have been re-categorised. Deferment periods arising from breaches have also been changed. Minor changes in terminology relating to breaches and deferment periods. Relationship between deferment periods and waiting periods has changed.

Update 306G # Date 26 January 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Breaches and deferment periods. See guideline 12.10600.

Breaches of Social Security Act have been re-categorised. Deferment periods arising from breaches have also been changed. Minor changes in terminology relating to breaches and deferment periods. Relationship between deferment periods and waiting periods has changed.

Update 305G # Date 26 January 1995

CHAPTER 8 - CARER PENSION - 1. These guidelines describe the procedures to be followed when a person enquires about eligibility for carer pension before taking up full-time care. See guidelines 8.900 to 8.907. 2. Participation in employment, education or training.

1. It is possible to give a claimant an indication of whether they may qualify for carer pension prior to them assuming the full-time caring role.

2. To clarify that a decision to cancel payment should be made under section 198(1) if the care requirements are not being met. Section 198(2AA) does not give authority to cancel solely because the 10 hours per week allowed for employment, education or training has been exceeded.

Update 304G # Date 12 January 1995

CHAPTER 12 - YOUNG HOMELESS ALLOWANCE. Guidelines 12.21000 to 12.21703 have been deleted as this subject is now covered by chapter 44 - Homeless Rate.

Update 303G # Date 12 January 1995

CHAPTER 44 - HOMELESS RATE - new chapter replacing Part Q of chapter 12. See guidelines 44.000 to 44.8103.

The homeless rate (also known as Young Homeless Allowance (YHA) is not a payment in its own right, it is the higher rate of job search allowance (JSA), sickness allowance (SA) or special benefit payable to a 'homeless person'. The homeless rate is equivalent to the independent rate of payment.

Update 302G # Date 12 January 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Assistance with claims for overseas pensions. See guidelines 27.4100 (deleted).

The names and addresses of overseas social security organisations are now in guideline 42.2331.

Update 301G # Date 12 January 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc. TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Verifying qualifying residence for claimants who have lived in Agreement countries. See guidelines 1.8900 to 1.8904.

Up to date information on International Social Security Agreements and the new claim action required when claimant relies on residence or contributions in an Agreement country to qualify residentially for an Australian payment.

Update 300G # Date 12 January 1995

CHAPTER 42 - PORTABILITY AND COMPARABLE FOREIGN PAYMENTS - new chapter. See guidelines 42.000 to 42.2531.

The OLI Portability Manual is now incorporated as Part A of chapter 42 of the Guide. In addition, Part B of chapter 42 deals with policy and procedures for the Comparable Foreign Payment Provisions, introduced from 20 March 1994 and, until now, available only in National Instructions.

Update 299G # Date 12 January 1995

CHAPTER 6 - DISABILITY SUPPORT PENSION - Applications rejected because impairment is less than 20%. See guidelines 6.400 to 6.604.

Sets out procedures for disability support officer cases which have been rejected as the impairment level is less than 20%.

Update 298G # Date 12 January 1995

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROCEDURES inc TAX FILE NUMBER EXEMPTIONS - Claimant born overseas. See guidelines 1.2900 to 1.2953.

Interviewing claimants who have lived and worked overseas - claiming pensions from comparable foreign payment countries and non-Agreement countries. Filling out Module O and recording overseas work history and residence in New Zealand.

Update 296G & 297G # Date 12 January 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Family payment - income and assets test rates - proof of income/proof of estimates. See guidelines 27.25600 to 27.25623, 27.25800 to 27.25804 and 27.27120 to 27.27140.

From the beginning of the 1994 family payment end of year review process, clients will no longer be required to provide documentary evidence of income.

Update 295G # Date 12 January 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - JSA/NSA recipients undertaking community correctional orders in excess of 20 hours per week. See guidelines 12.220 to 12.225.

That job search allowance/newstart allowance (JSA/NSA) recipients can have community service orders written into their activity agreements provided that the correctional order activity can be shown to be a measure designed to eliminate or reduce any disadvantage the client faces in terms of their job seeking or employability.

Update 294G # Date 12 January 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Transitional arrangements for temporarily incapacitated clients transferring from JSA to NSA. See guideline 12.13800 to 12.13802.

A job search allowance (JSA) recipient whose incapacity end date exceeds the recipient's JSA end date may be posted a newstart allowance (NSA) claim form by the CES. The recipient will be eligible for NSA provided the NSA claim is lodged and the recipient is willing to enter into a Newstart Activity Agreement once the incapacity end date has expired.

Update 293G # Date 12 January 1995

CHAPTER 12 - NEWSTART - Variation to normal lodgement - interstate lodgement. See guidelines 12.16100 to 12.16103.

SU19s lodged interstate and therefore out of the home office were previously faxed to the home office for processing. Form can now be processed at the interstate office but, after processing, should still be returned to the home office for storage.

Update 292G # Date 12 January 1995

CHAPTER 27 - DETERMINING RATES OF PAYMENT - Family Payment - Income and Assets Tests Rates. See guidelines 27.25200 to 27.25288.

Inclusion of Employer Provided Benefits and Net Rental Property Losses in Family Payment Income test.

Update 291G # Date 12 January 1995

CHAPTER 17 - FAMILY PAYMENT - Family Payment Income Test - inclusion of net rental property losses. See guidelines 17.8000 to 17.8302.

Details change to Family Payment Income Test by inclusion of net rental property losses.