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.

Guide to Social Security Law Updates - 2000

Guide to Social Security Law Update 1450G # Date 27 November 2000

Topic No Topic Title Details
1.1.C.215 Company - public & private Amended definition of a company and private company.
1.1.C.330 Continuing inability to work (CITW) (DSP, SA) Removed references to SA.
1.1.P.90 Part-time employment (DSP) Updated definition.
1.1.T.70 Temporary incapacity for work (NSA, SA) Removed references to SA.
1.1.S.200 Social security entitlement Removed reference to partner allowance.
1.1.S.430 Supported employment (DSP) Removed references to SA.
2.2.1.10 General Provisions for Verifying POI Referred POI for children to the Family Assistance Guide.
3.1.2.60 Other Waiting Periods for NSA & YA Clarified industrial action exclusion period.
3.1.4.10 Situations that Constitute Imprisonment Updated information on imprisonment.
3.1.4.20 Payments during Periods of Imprisonment Updated information on payments during periods of imprisonment.
3.1.4.50 Reviews - Customer Undertaking Rehabilitation Updated information on a course of rehabilitation.
3.2.2.20 Situations Involving Industrial Action Clarified industrial action exclusion period.
3.2.5.30 Unreasonable to Live at Home & YA Added a reference to crisis payment and a link to 3.7.4.20 Qualification for CrP.
3.2.6.40 Away from home rate of YA and bypassing local schools Added text on students with special talents bypassing local schools.
3.2.7 Away from Home Rate of YA & Bypassing Local Schools Included additional information on bypassing local schools and students with special talents.
3.3.2.10 Qualification for MAA after 1 July 1996 Widow Allowance to qualification criteria table. Act reference 666 YBA (3) added.
3.4.1.10 Qualification for Age Seniors & Means Test Deleted references to DVA pensions.
3.5.1.130 Supplementary Benefits and Assistance for PP recipients Included additional information in example under other departmental benefits - benefit PP (partnered) customers.
3.6.1.10 Qualification for DSP Updated qualification criteria.
3.6.1.20 Qualification for DSP during employment

Updated overview.

Updated Competitive, Employment, Training & Placement.

Updated Supported Wage System.
3.6.2.70 Assessment of Continuing Inability to Work

Corrected error in second paragraph on Literacy, numeracy & language.

"Other non - medical influence, should NOT be taken into account."
3.6.2.80 Determining Continuing Inability to Work using WATS Included a link to 5.6.3. Use of WATs for DSP purposes.
3.6.2.200 DSP customers with less than 10 years residence Updated information about customers with severe congenital abnormalities.
3.6.5.30 Participation of SA Recipients in Rehabilitation Programs Updated qualification during a rehabilitation program.
3.6.6.10 Qualification for MOB Updated MOB qualifications to reflect the FaCS Amendment Bill No 1, 2000.
3.6.6.20 Payability of MOB Inserted a paragraph on customers receiving a GST-free car.
3.6.6.50 Assessment of Other Criteria for MOB

Inserted a paragraph on: Job search activities under an agreement between Centrelink and a service provider funded by DEWRSB.

Deleted, Activity plan developed by a disability panel.
3.7.2.30 SpB for Customers from New Zealand Topic rewritten to reflect updated NZ agreement.
3.8.1.60 Payments that may be treated as rent

Changed maintenance payments to child support maintenance payments.

Clarified RA eligibility for Commonwealth funded care facilities.
3.8.3.20 PES qualifying study for tertiary students

Changed workload to study load.

Added additional information about continuing/non continuing students.
3.8.3.30 PES and secondary students Included information about special school students.
3.8.3.90 Payability of PES Inserted information about newly arrived resident's waiting period and exemptions.
3.8.3.120 Termination of PES

Renamed title to Variation and Termination of PES.

Inserted information about date of event and date of effect of rate variations.
3.8.10.70 Bereavement Payments for CPS Recipients Referred to 5.1 for current rates.
4.3.1.20 Determining the rate of income for pensions Updated section on apportioning lump sums.
4.3.2.31 Other Income Exempt from Assessment - Specifically Approved Added Barter Jobs Australia Incorporated to list of Approved exchange trading systems.
4.3.3.60 Deferred income, salary sacrifice & fringe benefits Included a paragraph on fringe benefits - declaration and debts.
4.3.4.10 Application of the Income Maintenance Period (IMP) Inserted an example on calculating the length of the IMP.
4.3.6.10 Income From Overseas Pensions Added US pensions to summary. Included an example of blocked overseas pensions. Further details provided on termination of UK agreement.
4.3.9 Income from other sources Changed title of 4.3.9.30 to Income from personal injury insurance schemes.
4.3.9.30 Income from sickness and accident policy payments

Included a paragraph on disability pensions paid from superannuation funds.

Included a paragraph on salary continuance payments.

Included a paragraph on trauma insurance.

Deleted reference to payment after SA.
4.3.9.70 Income From Private Annuities & Overseas Income Streams Clarified assessment of overseas income streams.
4.6.2.20 Assessing exemption for irrecoverable loans and debts Moved contents to 4.6.5.60 Assessing Loans & Guarantor Arrangements.
4.6.4.70 Granny Flats - Property Transfers always accepted as reasonable Amended paragraph where customer provides funds for construction of granny flat to alert readers to treatment where customer pays more than 10% above the cost.
4.6.5.60 Assessing loans & Guarantor arrangements Added information from 4.6.2.20 and topic rewritten.
4.6.6.30 Encumbrances and loans against assets Included an explanation on collateral security.
4.7.1.80 Assessment of assets for partnerships Amended 2.5 hectares to 2 hectares of allowable private land.
5.1.5.10 DSP - Current rates Updated rates.
5.1.5.40 MOB - Current rates Updated rates.
5.2.1.50 Youth Related Payments - July 1986 to Present Date Update of YA rates.
8.1.4.40 DOP & Parenting - Documentation Required Added paragraph regarding POI documentation required for Parenting Payment.

Guide to Social Security Law Update 1449G # Date 30 October 2000

Corrections and Improvements
Topic No Topic Title Details
Acronym List  

Added Rural Australia Medical Undergraduate Scholarship Scheme (RAMUSS).

Corrected VECS to VCES Veterans' Children Education Scheme.

Added Transport Accident Act 1986 (Vic) - TAA.

Added Transport Accident Commission (Vic) - TAC.
1.1.E.130 Entry Contribution Clarified the difference between an entry contribution and other payments made by retirement village residents.
1.1.L.100 Long term Income Support Paragraph added to elaborate that being a Long term Income Support Student does not necessarily mean that a student is independent for YA.
1.1.M.150 Ministers of Religion

Included as exemptions from EPB under FA income test for:

Reach Out for Christ Faith Centre Ltd - all pastors;

Victory Life Centre - all pastors.
1.1.R.270 Retirement Village Removed reference to referral to PAU.
1.2.4.40 Maternity Allowance (MAT) - Description (deleted - see topic) Deleted topic and inserted policy reference to FA Guide.
1.2.4.50 Maternity Immunisation Allowance (MIA) - Description (deleted - see topic) Deleted topic and inserted policy reference to FA Guide.
2.2.10.30 Verification for MAT & MIA Deleted topic and inserted policy reference to FA Guide.
3.1.5.10 When do Bereavement Payments Apply? Deleted topic and inserted policy reference to FA Guide.
3.1.5.140 Bereavement Payment Provisions for Child Deaths Deleted topic and inserted policy reference to FA Guide.
3.1.7.80 Waiver of the SWPP

Spelling corrected - changed national to notional.

In first table at point 4 deleted words - "or non-benefit".
3.2.3.10 Qualification for YA Elaborated on the minimum age criteria for young people considered 15 and independent for YA purposes.
3.5.1.90 Payability Summary for PP Removed reference to waiting period in the table describing the circumstances for a partnered customer.
3.5.1.100 Payability of PP - Single Rate Updated the summary to include all payability issues relating to the topic.
3.5.1.110 Payability of PP - Partnered Rate Updated the summary to include all payability issues relating to the topic.
3.8.5.10 Qualification for EEP - NSA, MAA, MAPA, PA, WA & CP Customers Changed "EEP qualified" to "income support".
3.8.8.10 Qualification for RAA Included Special Benefit in qualification criteria for RAA.
3.9.1.70 Low Income HCC- Assessment of Income Updated income limits effective from 20 September 2000.
4.2.8.10 Dependent YA - Parental Income Test & Limits Changed the wording of current year assessments for YA. To indicate that current year PIT assessments can only take into consideration the base tax year plus one.
4.2.8.20 Dependent YA - Family Assets Test & Limits Updated the assets threshold for YA to take into account GST.

4.2.9.10

4.2.9.30

 Family Actual Means Test - Designated Parents Information about FAMT category has been causing confusion. It has been taken from 4.2.9.30 and added to 4.2.9.10.
4.3.2.31 Other Income Exempt from Assessment Added Rural Australia Medical Undergraduate Scholarship Scheme (RAMUSS) payments to lump sums exempted under section 8(11).
4.3.7.50 Lump Sum Preclusion Period

Added a note about compensation made under Victorian TAA.

Clarification of the divisor.
4.4.1 General Provisions for Deeming New Topic added: 4.4.1.90 Deeming Rate Calculation - Pensioner and Non- Pensioner Couple.
4.4.1.90 Deeming Rate Calculation - Pensioner and Non- Pensioner Couple. Added a deeming rate calculation for a pensioner and non-pensioner couple.
4.6.4.20 Hostels Assessed before 1 October 1997 Clarified meaning of the "either or" rule.
4.6.4.30 Assessing Retirement Villages Clarified the difference between an entry contribution and service charges.
4.6.5.90 Assessing Home Equity Conversion Loans

Included policy references.

Included text relating to deeming provisions as they apply to these arrangements.
4.8.2.40 Determining the Assessable Income from Withdrawals from Superannuation Benefits

Added policy references.

Clarified that receipt of lump sum from super fund is not treated as income.
5.1.7.10 RA - Current Rates

Deleted reference to "with child" rates of RA for SS payments.

Inserted policy reference to FA Guide.
5.2.4.50 Parenting Payment and associated rates - July 1995 to Present Date Updated PP historical rates.
6.4 Recovery of Payments after Compensation Payout New topic added 6.4.5 - Waiver of CAPs during Victorian TAA non-payment periods.
6.4.1 General provisions for compensation recovery Included information on the date of effect rules and recoverable amounts.
6.4.5 Waiver of CAPs during Victorian TAA non-payment periods Explained the waiver provision for accidents in Victoria which are unable to meet the definition of an 'earner' under the TAA.
6.5.2.40 Waiver on the basis of special circumstances Included reference to waiver of CAPs received during Victorian TAA non-payment periods (see also new topic 6.4.5).

7.1.1.10

7.1.3

Overview of Portability legislation

Portability Provisions for Customers going to New Zealand (or to another country, if paid under the agreement with New Zealand)

 Improved wording to clarify amendments made for 20 September 2000 legislative changes.

7.1.4

7.1.5.50

7.1.5.60

Requirements for former residents of Australia receiving a portable pension

General rules of portability

Portability table

 Improved wording to clarify amendments made for 20 September 2000 legislative changes.

7.2.1.10

7.2.1.20

7.2.1.30

Departure and arrival notification

Customer advice before departure

Medical examination for DSP

 Improved wording to clarify amendments made for 20 September 2000 legislative changes.

7.2.2.10

7.2.2.60

7.2.5.10

Calculating proportional portability for non-agreement pensions

Post Departure reviews of portable payments

Granting a new payment to an overseas customer

 Improved wording to clarify amendments made for 20 September 2000 legislative changes.

7.2.5.20

7.2.5.30

General Provisions - changing payment types a customer overseas

Transferring to Age for a customer overseas

 Improved wording to clarify amendments made as a result of 20 September legislative changes.

7.3.1.10

7.3.1.20

7.3.1.30

Summary of CFP legislation

Reasonable Action Requirements

Applying CFP provisions

 Improved wording to clarify amendments made for 20 September 2000 legislative changes.
7.3.2 CFP Exemptions Improved wording to clarify amendments made for 20 September 2000 legislative changes.

Guide to Social Security Law Update 1448G # Date 20 September 2000

Budget Initiative

Topic No. Topic Title Details
various various Consequential amendments throughout the guide that flow from the Budget measure "Simplify International Payments".
3.5.1.130 Supplementary Benefits & Assistance for PP Recipients Deleted reference to repealed SSAct. Included reference to FAAct and FA Guide.
3.1.1.10 Residence Requirements Change to definition of Australian resident from 20 September 2000.
7.1 Conditions for Payment Outside Australia Rewrite of chapter that flow from the Budget measure "Simplify International Payments".
7.2 Arrangements for Payment Outside Australia Rewrite of chapter that flow from the Budget measure "Simplify International Payments".
7.3 Claiming CFP Rewrite of chapter that flow from the Budget measure "Simplify International Payments".

Corrections

Topic No. Topic Title Details
1.1.R.150 Remote area (RAA)(deleted - see 1.1.R.145) The material that was in this chapter now exists in 1.1.R.145.
3.4.3.10 Qualification for WA Errors corrected in Widow Allowance qualifications - Residence requirements.
3.5.1.150 Continuation, Variation or Termination of PP Add Maternity Allowance to list of pension PP (single) customers and benefit PP (partnered) customers.
3.9.1.100 Termination of Low Income HCC Minor text correction regarding when a new application is required and when a renewal form is required.
4.3.1.20 Determining the rate of Income for Pensions Correct wording in one-off income amounts and delete reference to Federal Court case of Rolley.
4.3.5.10 Assessing Income from DVA Addition of a reference to the income test treatment of Education Allowance paid by the Veterans' Children Education Scheme.
4.3.6.10 Income from Overseas Pensions Insertion of section on "arrears of overseas pensions". Insert information on treatment of overseas annuities. Provide words on treatment of UK Housing Benefit. Updating of words on blocked income to address "temporary" blocks.
4.3.6.30 Restitution Payments - Germany & Austria Update topic to include dot point and paragraph on "compensation payments to forced labourers and slave workers".
4.3.8.20 Income from Sale of Property - Payments Deferred or by Instalments Text added on a formula to estimate the present value of instalments due in the future.
4.6.3.70 Exempting the Principal Home - Care Situations Correction of link for Exempt Asset (1.1.E.170) - currently showing as 1.1.A.170.
4.9.3.20 Income & Assets Assessment of Defined Benefit Income Streams Minor amendments to correct grammar.
4.9.3.10 Income Assessment of Asset-test Exempt Income Streams Minor correction to topic in relation to net present value method of valuing an income stream.
4.9.2.20 Extension of Asset-test Exemption to Certain Income Streams Minor amendments to first paragraph.
5.1.7.10 RA - Current Rates Update RA rates to 20 September 2000.
5.1.7.40 EEP Current Rates Updated rates to take account of increase due to new tax system.
5.1.7.50 EdEP - Current Rate Updated rate to take account of increase with the new tax system.
5.2.1.40 Additional Benefit & RA Update historical RA rates.
5.2.2.20 Additional Payments - April 1943 to Present Date Update historical RA rates.
5.2.4.40 RA (families with children) - December 1987 to Present Date Update RA rates and also clarify FTB situation for RA.
5.2.6.10 RA Rates - June 1990 to Present Date Update historical and current RA rates.

General Improvement

Topic No. Topic Title Details
Acronym List   Addition to list of acronyms AFFA Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry - Australia, VCES Veterans' Children Education Scheme.
1.1.A.15 Accommodation bond, accommodation bond balance Explanation of, and removal of, hardcoded numbers for retention amount from accommodation bond.
1.1.S.200 Social security entitlement Inclusion of benefit PP (partnered) as a social security entitlement in some cases.
2.2.13.10 Supplementary Benefits - Verification required Clarify what an approved course is for EdEP purposes. Add pensioner education supplement to the table of supplementary payments which require verification.
3.7.1.10 Qualification for SpB Simplification of residence provisions - repeal of redundant "qualifying residence exemption" for SpB.
3.4.9.10 Qualification for BVA Change to residence requirements for Bereavement Allowance from 20 September 2000.
3.7.4.10 Qualification for CrP - General provisions Further explanation on qualification.
3.8.1.10 Qualification for RA

Update Qualification Criteria to clarify that Austudy Payment is not an eligible payment type for RA.

Update for new portability rules relating to RA.
3.8.6.10 Qualification for EdEP

Clarify rules whereby NSA customers can receive an EdEP while remaining on NSA.

Clarify further the meaning of an approved course in terms of EdEP entitlement.

Insert hotlinks to Centrelink procedural material.
3.8.6.20 Qualification for EdEP - widB, pension PP single, DSP, CP and SpB

Clarify claim arrangements for an EdEP.

Insert procedural references.
Part 4 Income & Assets Amend Introduction to Topic to include some background behind the need for means tests.
4.3.1.40 Determining the rate of Income for PP Delete reference to "a few weeks" under "One off income amounts".
4.3.2.30 Other Income Exempt from Assessment - Legislated An example of an exempt funeral investment included.
4.3.2.31 Other Income Exempt from Assessment - Specifically Approved

Addition to list of personal care support schemes approved by the Minister;

Local Area Coordination Scheme operated by Territory Health Services, Northern Territory Government.
4.3.3.30 Employment Income for Pensioners Delete reference to "a few weeks" under one-off employment income.
4.3.9.70 Income from Private & Overseas Income Streams Add new text on: Assessment Commencement Date and cross reference to 4.6.5.100.
4.4.1.40 Exemption of Financial Investments from Deeming Rewrite to include guidelines for deeming exemptions for investments in Church and Charitable Organisations and Failed Financial Investments.
4.6.2.10 General Provisions for Exempt Assets More information on exempt funeral investments provided.
4.6.3.10 General Provisions for Assessing the Principal Home

Change policy on the treatment of principal home used for business purposes to reflect the Federal Court decision in Ovari. The new policy exempts part of the home used for business if it is also used for private and domestic purposes.

Updated reference to proceeds of sale of the principal home to make it clear that in order for the proceeds to be exempt from the assets test the customer must intend to use them to purchase a new home within 12 months.
4.6.3.30 Defining the Principal Home Clarify policy on deciding which is the principal home where a customer owns more than one residential property.
4.6.5.100 Assessing Private Annuities Under "Actuarial value required" insertion of new words to describe requirement to value the annuity at the time of claim or when purchased.
4.8.1.20 Types of Superannuation Funds Insert policy reference under "Arrears of superannuation".
4.8.2.20 General Provisions for Assessing Withdrawals of Superannuation Update policy reference under "Principles for assessing superannuation assets".
4.9.2.10 Characteristics of an Asset-Test Exempt Income Stream Application of requirement for the purchase price of an asset test exempt income stream to be wholly converted to income.
5.3.4.10 Taxation of Payments, Statements of Payment & Group Certificates Updating details to take account of changes made to Statements of Payment & Group Certificates in accord with the Tax Cluster information provided by Centrelink.
5.4.1.50 Repayment of Advance Payments Clarification of rules regarding the transfer of outstanding balance of an advance to new social security entitlement.
5.4.6.10 Qualification for Special Employment Advance Payments

Additional paragraph added:

Effect of Income Maintenance Period on 3 Month Qualifying Period.
6.2.5.40 DSP - review of income from Self Employment Changing Act references from SSAct to SS(Admin)Act.
6.5.2.30 Waiver for Administrative Error Minor amendments as a result of concerns raised by the Ombudsman.
8.1.1.30 Claim Lodgement - Payment Specific Provisions Update claim provisions for Education Entry payment for Pensioner Education Supplement Recipients.
8.1.4.70 Supplementary Benefits - Documentation Required Clarify information about approved courses for education entry payment and pensioner education supplement.

Guide to Social Security Law Update 1447G # Date 28 August 2000

Budget Initiative

Topic No. Details
3.2.5.80 Heading changed to 'YA - self-supporting through paid employment' section. Change to overseas employment as the passage of the YA Consolidation Bill means that overseas employment will be counted from 6 July 2000.
3.8.9.60

Reference omitted to 'YA, Austudy or PES is actually received; and

The Secretary deems that the student is in financial hardship due to changes in the YA Consolidation Act.
5.1.1.20 Change to YA current rates due to 4% increase to accommodate GST.
5.1.2.30 Change to Austudy current rates due to 4% increase for GST.
3.7.4.10 References deleted to SSAct. Additional references to SS(Admin)Act.
3.7.4.40 References deleted to SSAct. Additional references to SS(Admin)Act.

General Improvement

Topic No. Details
Acronym list Include reference to FFRS (Farm Family Restart Scheme).
1.1.A.375

Update wording On "Relevant AWOTE" paragraph.

Update Example dates.

Insert wording to table reference.
1.1.H.60 Included PES in title and definition. Amended sentence of HECS loading to based on "tertiary institution's" advice.
1.1.P.389 Definition removed reference made to Social Security Act.
1.1.P.390 Example removed from definition.
1.1.S.45

Move paragraph "Annual Shutdown of Business" under Definition.

Reword paragraph on "Intermittent work".

Remove examples and explanation from "Intermittent work".
1.1.S.46 Remove the word "intermittent" from Definition.
1.1.W.15 Remove the word "intermittent" from Definition.
1.2.4.60

Amendment to qualification criteria for DOP "a prescribed student" changed to "receiving payments under a prescribed education scheme".

Minor correction to ACO qualification criteria for DOP.
1.2.6.30 Topic rewritten. Paragraph on supplementary assistance removed.
1.2.7.30 Updated PES rates information due to rate change effective from 1 July 2000.
2.2.4.10 Total revision of "verification of residence/citizenship" section.
2.2.5.50 Removal of references to pre-Tax Reform payments from examples.
3.1.2.40 Include the pensioner education supplement in the list of payments subject to a NARWP.
3.1.4.30 Topic rewritten. Reference to Non-benefit PP (partnered) removed.
3.1.6.20 New topic - Effect of compensation on payments made under the Farm Household Support Act.
3.1.6.30 Include reference to Invalid Pension in relation to the effect of compensation.
3.1.7.50 Updated Act references. Example 2 amended.
3.1.7.60 Insert new example (customer on PPP).
3.1.7.80

Revision of paragraph on "Notional seasonal work earnings".

Delete "Exceptions to the waiver provisions".
3.1.7.90

Example 1 contract work changed to seasonal work.

Example 3 contract worker changed to contract shearer.
3.2.8.20 Date changed to 1 July 1998 for payment criteria. Additional approved activity included in suitable activities. Combination of activities amended to combination of voluntary, part-time and/or education and training. Exemption of caring responsibilities amended to temporary and unforeseen caring responsibilities.
3.4.8.10 Change of dates for extension of RAFS to 30 June 2001 and adjust other dates accordingly.
3.4.8.60 Change of dates for extension of RAFS to 30 June 2001. Clarify transfer of legal ownership and date of transfer.
3.4.8.70 Clarify farming assets eg plant, machinery, livestock etc.
3.4.8.110 Contact name changed in assessment table from Disability Customer Segment Team to Rural and Housing Community Segment Team.
3.4.8.120 Change of dates for extension of RAFS to 30 June 2001. Clarify first dot point on start date.
3.5.1.65 Correct cross reference to material now in FA Guide in key risk areas table.
3.5.8.10

Amendment to qualification criteria for DOP "a prescribed student" changed to "receiving payments under a prescribed education scheme".

Minor correction to ACO qualification criteria for DOP.
3.7.1.10 New visa subclass 786 (humanitarian concerns) added to SpB qualification.
3.7.2.70 Summary and topic under Commonwealth and State/Territory Youth Protocol rewritten.
3.7.4.10

Explanation to "Qualified for a social security pension or benefit" clarified.

Additional paragraph on CDEP Participants. Topic on severe financial hardship clarified. Title "Claim in Australia" changed to "Claim within 7 days of release from prison or of extreme circumstance".
3.7.4.20 Explanation removed from "In Australia at time of the event".
3.7.4.30

Explanation clarified in "Establishing a new home".

Act reference SSAct section 1061JH(1) added.

Explanation added to "CrP not payable if disaster relief payment available".

Policy reference 3.7.3 deleted.

Removal of example after "Left home and unreasonable to return".
3.7.4.50 Paragraph on "CDEP Participants" moved to 3.7.4.10.
3.7.4.60

Clarification of dot point "When CrP is not payable".

Clarification of table "When CrP is payable".
3.7.4.70 Clarification of table "When CrP is payable".
3.8.3.10 Remove carer service pension from the list of qualifying payments as there are no more cases.
3.8.3.30 Clarify allowable time rules for secondary students below year 12.
3.8.3.40 Insert hotlink to SSAct 1061PE (4) and YASI DOC to highlight new rules allowing a GP (as well as the CRS) to determine substantial physical disability for 25% concessional study load students.
3.8.3.50 Clarify minimum study requirements for open learning australia (OLA).
4.3.1.10

Introduction reworded.

Correct setting out under subheading "Apportioning lump sums over 12 months".
4.3.1.20 Clarification of wording under "Determine an annual rate of income - one-off income amounts" to take into account the Full Federal Court decision in Rolley.
4.3.1.40 Insert wording in "Striking a rate of income - one-off income amounts" to reflect the Full Federal Court finding in Rolley.
4.3.2.31 Two additions to the list of section 8 (11) exempt lump sums; Financial assistance associated with the Welfare Reform Pilots and Assessment and Contestability Trial for People with Disabilities - financial assistance payments.
4.3.3.20

Minor changes to "back pay paid to a person reinstated after a suspension without pay".

Addition of text to subsection "Commission received by self-employed people".
4.3.7 Remove dot point - loss of income for SA purposes, and family allowance.
4.3.7.20 Correction of date that DSP became compensation affected.
4.3.7.40 Clarification of aggregation of lump sums under 50% rule.
4.3.7.50 Clarification of additional lump sum to include - irrespective of how far apart in time the payments have been made.
4.3.3.30 Insert new section "Casual earnings" - dealing with ongoing work and one-off employment that is not likely to recur, to reflect the Full Federal Court decision in Rolley.
4.3.8.30 Topic rewritten to improve readability.
4.3.9 Included dot point in summary - "child maintenance".
4.6.6.30 Example of apportioning a loan for both an assessable and exempt asset corrected. Topic rewritten.
4.6.7.50 Correct grammar and spelling errors.
4.7.1.10

Update "Income from a business".

New heading GST interaction with income from business and link to 4.7.5.30.
4.7.5.30

Clarify table under GST refunds.

Insert new section "How to assess income for GST registered businesses".

Insert new section "How to assess income for a business not GST registered".

And insertion of policy references.
4.8.1.20 Insert dot point in summary - arrears of superannuation and policy link to 4.3.2.30.
4.8.2.30 Correct wording of second dot point under: "Start date of the assessable period" should be income support payment not social security payment.
4.8.2.20 Insert text on Treatment of disability income from a superannuation policy and insert link to 4.9.1.20.
5.4.1.10 Income support payments - parenting changed to partner allowance.
6.4.1

Included dot point in summary - "effect on FTB". New title Effect on FTB.

New Act Reference - Part 5.2.

New topic - when a wife pension is recoverable (partner of DSP recipient or DSP special needs recipient).

Corrections Urgent

Topic No. Details
2.2.10.10 Change heading from Verifying that a Customer resides in Australia to Verification for PP.

Corrections Non-Urgent

Topic No. Details
Nil  

Guide to Social Security Law Update 1446G # Date 31 July 2000

Budget Initiative
Topic No. Details
1.1.A.30

Delete whole section.

Add note See 1.1.P.510.
1.1.M.150 Inclusion of Calvary Chapel, Perth (pastors) and River of Life Australia (all pastors).
3.7.1.10 Addition of temporary protection visa (subclass 785) in qualifications for Special Benefit.
3.12 New chapter - Pension GST Supplement - Qualification & Payability.
3.12.1 New topic - Pension GST Supplement.
5.1.7.10 Update current rates of Rent Assistance - as at 1 July 2000.

1.1.D.240

2.2.10.40

3.5.8.10

3.5.8.40

3.5.8.50

5.1.4.60

6.2.4.90

6.2.4.110

The DOP material in the Guide is being changed to reflect changes to the definition of a double orphan child and the introduction of an additional component of DOP. DOP will now be paid for double orphan children whose only living parent is on remand and charged with an offence punishable by imprisonment for ten years or more. An additional component of DOP will now be paid for children who became double orphans on or after 1/7/98 and the rate of family assistance paid to the current family in respect of the child is less than the rate of family assistance paid in respect of the child in their original family.

The changes will include creating a new topic called 5.1.4.70 DOP - Additional Component. This topic will explain how the additional component is calculated.
General Improvement
Topic No. Details
1.1.C.50 Carer Preclusion Period definition clarified.
1.1.C.260 Compensation Preclusion Period definition clarified.
1.1.D.230 Disposal preclusion period (PBS) definition clarified.

3.2.5.20

3.2.5.30

3.2.5.40

3.2.5.50

 Rewrite of unreasonable to live at home guidelines for Youth Allowance.
3.2.7.40 Title change to Guidelines for Negotiating Preparing for Work Agreements.
3.4.1.10

Policy reference under "Alternative qualification for some women".

Inserted Policy reference under "Carer Payment".

Inserted "Members of a couple".
3.4.1.20

Include policy reference in "Compensation".

Include policy reference in "Multiple entitlement exclusion".

Updated wording to include DVA in "Multiple entitlement exclusion".
3.4.1.40 DVA inserted in "Disability or Service Pension".
3.4.2.10

Updated wording on "Qualification for other payments".

Deleted subsection "comparable foreign payments".
3.4.2.20 Update reference to "Imprisonment".
3.4.2.40 FaCS payment changed to Social Security payment in "Notifiable events for WP".
3.4.2.30 Include reference to PES in "other departmental benefits".
3.4.2.50

Updated summary table "circumstances in which payment of WP may change".

Updated Act reference in "Summary".

Updated Act reference in "Appeals against automatic transfer to Age".

Updated reference "Payment of WP to partners of DVA disability pension".

Updated reference "Death of customer".
3.4.4.10

Delete word Allowance from policy reference.

Delete subsection "comparable foreign payment".
3.4.4.50 Insertion of new sub-section on "Imprisonment".
3.4.4.70 Include PES in "Other Departmental benefits".
3.4.4.90

Update summary table "circumstances in which payment of WidB may change" including restoration after suspension.

Update reference to "transfer to Age".

Update table on "Customers who are NOT automatically transferred to Age".

Delete last sentence of explanation (repeated) in "Appeals against automatic transfer to Age".

Update policy and include example in "Death of customer".
3.4.7.20

Insertion of new section "Qualification not a condition for Registration".

Modification of "Time limits to register".

Major rewrite of section "Extension of time to register".

Renaming of "Registration backdated" to "Extension of time to register - work test record-keeping requirements".

Modification of text - "Registration for PBS can be rejected".

Insertion of new section "DVA Pension Bonus Scheme".

Insertion of new section "Transfer between DVA and social security schemes".

Insertion of new section "Dual membership of the DVA and social security scheme".
3.4.7.30

Addition of example to section "What constitutes a bonus period".

Addition of example to section "Limit of bonus years".

Addition of example to section "Part year bonus periods".

Insertion of new section "Age Limit to Accrue Bonus".
3.4.7.40

Minor addition to text "Summary" - Accruing members must meet the work test.

Additional policy reference in "summary".
3.4.7.50 Addition of policy reference to "Non-accruing membership".
3.4.7.60

Addition of policy reference to "Work outside Australia".

Addition of policy reference to "Record-keeping requirements".

Addition of Act reference to "Additional information".
3.4.7.80

Modification of table under "Time limits on claiming the bonus".

Addition of policy reference to "Time limits on claiming the bonus".

Modification of table under "Late claims".

Addition of policy reference to "Late claims".
3.4.7.100

Addition of policy reference under "How is the bonus calculated".

Tidy up of policy reference under "Calculation when marital status has not changed".

Addition of Act reference to "Customers who also participate in RAFS".
3.5.1.110

Clarify details of PP customers on CDEP and insert legislative reference and hotlink.

Remove references to the LEAP program as LEAP no longer exists.

Remove references to treatment of partner income from Abstudy and LEAP as ordinary income. Due to changes announced in the 2000/2001 Budget Abstudy is excluded from the income test.
3.8.10.70

Addition to Allowees - Remote area allowance will also be included if applicable.

Another act reference = SSAct section 1188C(2) inserted.
4.3.2.10 Reference to the Social Security Act 1991 removed.
4.3.2.30

Addition of a reference to the Social Security Act 1991 for clarification of the treatment of compensation and insurance payments.

Clarification on the asset value of cemetery plots and pre-paid funeral expenses.
4.7.1.10 Clarification on the assessment of current business income.
4.7.3.60 Clarification on the treatment of unpaid distributions.
8.3.2 Remove reference to non-benefit PP (partnered) as payment abolished from 1 July 2000.
Corrections Urgent
Topic No. Details
3.4.1.60

Update Summary table "circumstances in which payment of Age may change".

Update explanation of "Payment of Age to customers receiving DVA Disability Pension".

Update (in line with payment cycles) "Death of customer".
Corrections Non-Urgent
Topic No. Details
2.2.9 Updating table - Verification required for Age Pension.
3.5.1.150 Correction to eligibility conditions for parenting payment bereavement assistance following death of a partner.
3.8.10 Change title to CDEP CPS Qualification and Payability.

Guide to Social Security Law Update 1445G # Date 3 July 2000

Budget Initiative
Topic No. Details

1.1.C.250

1.1.G.30

1.1.H.10

1.1.P.150

1.1.P.330

1.1.S.455

1.1.S.456

1.1.S.45

1.1.S.46

1.1.S.120

1.1.U.20

1.1.W.15

 References removed to PP (partnered) & benefit PP(partnered).

3.1.5.115

3.1.7

3.1.7.10

3.1.7.20

3.1.7.30

3.1.7.40

3.1.7.50

3.1.7.60

3.1.7.70

3.1.7.80

3.1.7.90

3.1.7.100

3.5.1

3.5.1.30

3.5.1.40

3.5.1.90

3.5.1.100

3.5.1.110

3.5.1.130

3.5.5.90

3.8.8.10

3.8.8.20

3.10.1.30

3.10.2.10

3.10.2.30

3.10.3.70

3.10.4.10

4.2.4

4.2.4.10

4.2.4.20

4.2.5.50

4.3.1.40

4.3.4.10

4.3.5.10

4.3.7

4.3.7.50

4.3.7.60

5.1.4

5.1.4.10

5.1.4.12

5.1.4.14

5.1.4.15

5.1.4.40

5.1.4.50

5.2.4.50

5.3.1.50

5.3.3.10

5.5

5.5.4

5.5.4.10

5.5.4.20

5.5.4.30

5.5.4.40

 Topics have been updated due to ANTS family assistance reform - removal of non-benefit PP (partnered) and changes to PP (partnered) income test.

1.1.P.510

3.2.7

3.2.7.10

3.2.7.20

3.2.7.30

3.2.7.40

3.2.8.20

3.2.8.80

3.2.11.30

 Text has been updated to introduce "preparing for work agreements".

3.8.1.10

3.8.1.20

3.8.1.30

3.8.1.50

3.8.1.60

3.8.1.130

3.8.1.140

3.8.1.150

7.1.5.40

 The following topics have been amended to reflect references to FA (now FTB).

3.10.1.30

3.10.2.10

3.10.2.30

3.10.3.70

3.10.4.10

 Benefit added to PP (Partnered).

3.5.8.10

3.5.8.20

3.5.8.40

3.5.8.50

 Changes to qualification criteria and links updated to reflect introduction of FTB.

4.10.5.40

5.1.4

5.2.4.20

5.5

6.4.1

7.1.5.20

8.1.1.30

8.1.1.50

8.1.2.20

8.1.2.30

8.1.3.10

8.1.4.40

8.1.6

8.3.2

8.4.1.10

8.4.1.30

 Amendments to reflect introduction of FTB on 1 July 2000.

3.1.4.20

3.1.8

 Amended to reflect introduction to FTB on 1 July 2000.
General Improvement
Topic No. Details
Acronym list

Added FTB

Acronym reference now refers to deleted FA, FTP, MIA, MA, NAP.

1.1.H.60

3.8.3.40

 Clarifying that in some cases HECS of 0.124 may qualify PES.
1.1.E.160 Deletion of reference to family payment.
1.1.M.150 Deletion of reference to family payment.
1.1.C.215 Correct errors in the definition of a company.
3.5.1.70 Insertion of text highlighting special residence rules apply to New Zealanders.
4.3.2.31 Addition to list of section 8(11).
4.3.3.10 Clarifying definition as a result of industry based lump sum payments.
4.3.8.10 Clarifying definition as a result of recent legal advice.
4.3.9.10 Reference to maintenance added to topic's title and text added on treatment of child's maintenance.
3.8.3.10 Deletion of benefit PP (partnered) saved cases only.

3.8.3.60

3.8.3.70

 Clarifying rules for assessment of past study for part-time or concessional study load students.

3.9.1.40

3.9.1.45

3.9.1.60

 FA acronym changed to reflect 1 July 2000 changes.
3.9.1.50 General provisions for Dependants and HCCs.
3.9.1.70 Low income HCC assessment of income.
3.9.3.20 Correction in payment figure to $3.30.
3.9.3.30 Assessment of income for CSHC.

4.1

4.1.9

 Amendments due to introduction of Families legislation.
4.2.1.20 Additional free area for dependant children - text updated to reflect increase.

4.3.2.10

4.3.2.30

4.3.6.10

4.3.9.10

4.3.9.40

 Reference made to the FA Guide.

4.6.5.100

4.6.6.10

4.6.6.30

4.6.7.100

 Changed to reflect the reassessing of the value of annuity.
4.6.2.10 Wording improved and reference made to exempt funeral investment.
4.6.5.50 Information in table now corrected ie Transposed.
4.7.2.10 Deletion of reference to customer receiving FAS.
4.8.2.40 Correction to table setting out steps in calculation process.
4.8.2.10 Clarification of continuous period of income support.
5.3.4.20 Amend Act reference.
6.6 New paragraph on continuation of payment pending outcome of review.
8.1.2.30 Clarification of SS(Admin)Act section 110(2) application.
Corrections Urgent
Topic No. Details

1.1.A.130

1.1.A.230

1.1.A.240

1.1.S.120

 Amended due to new Families legislation.
1.2.4.10 Removal of non-benefit PP (partnered).
1.2.4.60 Qualification for DOP changed, links updated to Family Tax Benefit.

4.7.3.20

4.7.3.40

 Deleted references to FA.
8.1.2.50 Replaces 8.1.2.10.
Corrections Non-Urgent
Topic No. Details

1.1.A

1.1.A.70

1.1.A.200

1.1.B

1.1.B.10

1.1.C

1.1.C.110

1.1.D.70

1.1.N

1.1.N.40

1.1.E

1.1.E.90

1.1.F

1.1.F.160

1.1.F.230

1.1.F.25

1.1.S

1.1.S.210

1.1.S.60

 Definitions amended which contain reference to Family Allowance "dependent child".
1.1.H.70 Amended title and definition to reflect legal opinion/AAT decision in relation to HEC arrangements.
1.2.7.70 Telephone allowance description - now has backdating restrictions.
1.1.A.30 See new topic 1.1.P.510 (preparing for work agreement).
1.2.7.20 Addition of dot point if customer is sole parent or at least 60 years of age etc.
2.2.10.40 Information added on verifying child's date of birth for DOP purposes.

2.2.2

2.2.3

 Amendments to reflect introduction of FTB on 1 July 2000.
2.2.13.10 Table updated to note Benefit PP (partnered) and pension PP (single).
3.4.1.60 Update of reference to SS Admin Act, policy reference 3.1.5 and explanation of payment of age to customers receiving DVA disability pension.
3.4.8.10 Change FA acronym to reflect introduction to FTB.

4.4.1.30

4.4.1.50

4.4.1.60

4.4.1.70

4.4.1.80

 Amendment to reference to FA and changes to deeming thresholds including updated examples.

3.8.8.10

3.8.8.20

3.8.8.40

3.8.8.50

3.8.8.60

 Correction and amendment of FTB.
3.8.8.10 Removal of pension PP (single), benefit PP (partnered) and replaced with Parenting Payment.
4.6.3.70 Clarification of reason for 5 year exemption rule.
4.11 New chapter on taxable income.
5.1.7.60 Rates in table corrected due to CPI increase.
5.1.4.60 Update DOP table.
5.1.4.50 Rounding formula updated due to SS (Admin) Act, weekly changed to fortnightly.

5.4

5.4.1.30

5.4.3

5.4.1.50

 Delete reference to family payment.
6.2.4.90 Removing links to FA information.
7.2.1.30 Correction of link to 1.1.S.110.
Special Update
Topic No. Details

2.2.13.10

3.8.6.10

 No link to Abstudy Policy Manual (4.1).

Guide to Social Security Law Update 1444G # Date 29 May 2000

General Improvement
Topic No. Details
Acronym list Addition of acronyms - ABN, ANTS, FBT, GST & PAYG.
2.2.5.40 Edition of minor text.

3.5.1.90

3.5.1.100

3.5.1.110

 Addition of keywords (parenting payment, IMP & income maintenance period).
3.5.1.150 Replacement of repealed SSAct reference with new SS(Admin)Act references.
4.3.7.10 Edition of text (ordinary income).
4.5.1 Updated Component of FA income and Policy Reference.
4.5.5 Clarification of Defence Force Housing Rights.
4.5.6 Clarification that Salary sacrifice is not regarded as an employer provided benefit in assessing income for FA.
4.7 Addition of new topic on a New Tax System (including GST).
4.7.5 Addition of new topic on a New Tax System (including GST).
4.7.5.10 Addition of new topic on a Goods & Services Tax (GST).
4.7.5.20 Addition of new topic on Pay as You Go (PAYG) Tax System.
4.7.5.30 Addition of new topic on Business Requirements and Fringe Benefits.
4.9.3.10 Significant changes to topic, insertion of method for calculating present value of an income stream in certain circumstances also method of valuing an ATE Income Stream from SMSF or SAF.
5.2.4.20 Replacement of repealed SSA references with new SSAA references.
5.2.4.30 Addition of 2000 rates for FA and GA to historical rates table.
5.5.5.20 Updated policy on shared care for GA.
5.5.5.50 Updated policy on shared care for GA.
5.5.5.60 Updated policy on shared care for GA.
6.2 Replacement of repealed SSAct reference with new SS(Admin)Act references.
6.2.4.10 Correction of style.
6.2.4.40 Updated Policy relating to withdraw and revision of estimates.
6.2.4.50 Updated Policy relating to withdraw and revision of estimates.
6.2.4.60 Updated Policy relating to withdraw and revision of estimates.
6.6 Edition of minor text.
8.1 Numerous text edits - clarification of particular relevance to PP, PES and EdEP.
8.2.1 Minor text edits clarifying info relating to PP and PES.
8.3.1 Numerous text edits - clarification of particular relevance to PP, PES and EdEP.
8.3.3.10 Numerous text edits - clarification of particular relevance to PP, PES and EdEP.
8.3.3.70 Numerous text edits - clarification of particular relevance to PP, PES and EdEP.
8.3.3.110 Numerous text edits - clarification of particular relevance to PP, PES and EdEP.
8.4 Correction of acronym relating to Fares Allowance and rounding rules.
8.4.1.50 Correction of acronym relating to Fares Allowance and rounding rules.
Corrections
Topic No. Details
1.1.A.340 Act Reference in this topic has been changed from 1210(B2) to 1221(B2).
1.1.E.129 Addition of new definition (Entity for GST purposes).
1.1.E.180 Word "Age" deleted from header.
2.2.12 Deletion of obsolete reference to old temporary entry permits.
3.1.5.140 Amendment of minor text and rates have been updated.
3.1.5.150 Amendment of minor text and rates have been updated.
3.1.5.160 Amendment of minor text and rates have been updated.
3.1.5.170 Amendment of minor text and rates have been updated.
4.3 Clarification of New Tax System.
4.3.1.20 Explanation of annual rate of income - short breaks in earnings.
4.3.1.40 General text correction.
4.3.2.31 Guidelines on ATSIC Business Development Programme grants added to Lump sums exempted under section 8(4).
4.3.3.20 Information on self employed customers and voluntary agreements in the PAYG Tax System.
4.3.3.40 Update of policy reference.
4.3.3.50 Information on Effect of a 'New Tax System'.
4.3.9.10 Updated heading to read 'Income from Spousal Maintenance, Property Settlements & Life Interest'.
4.9.1.20 Insertion of links to other topics in Policy Reference - General Provisions for Assessing Income Streams from 20 September 1998.
4.9.2.40 Insertion of updated links - Actuarial Valuation Certificate - Self Managed Superannuation Funds and Small APRA Superannuation Funds.
4.9.4.10 Correction of keyword index problem.
5.2.4.20 Correcting a historical rate of DOP and adding current rate.
7.2.2.30 Updated Act references.
7.2.2.40 Updated Act references.
Special Update
FaCS authorised Centrelink to deliver the following elements of the Administration Act from 20/3/2000, pending amendment to the legislation:
Topic No. Details
8.1.1.10 Inappropriate claims.
8.1.1.60 Extension of time to lodge claim after notifying intention to claim.
8.1.2.50 Deemed refusal of claim (Note: this replaces text included under 8.1.2.20).
8.1.2.60 Special arrangements for EdEP, Pension Bonus, CDEP.

Guide to Social Security Law Update 1443G # Date 1 May 2000

Budget Initiative
Topic No. Details
1.1.S.375 There has been a new term introduced in the SSA defining students to whom a half rate of PES will apply - 'sub-50% concessional study load student'. This will be hotlinked to the PES section of the Guide dealing with concessional study load students - 3.8.3.40.
General Improvement
Topic No. Details
1.1.C.212 Include sentence that participation in CDEP is voluntary.
1.2.7.30 Included information about half rate of PES.
1.2.7.60 Included wife pension and mature age partner allowance in list of eligible payments for EdEP.
2.2.13.10 Include information about PES and include all eligible payments covered by EdEP.
3.5.2.60 Replaces FA table with an example to explain payment of FA to two parties for an overlapping period.
3.5.4.60 Update policy in line with SS Admin Act.
3.5.4.80 Minor amendment to clarify when FA is not payable.
3.8.1.60 Clarify accommodation in a care situation. Add exception in line with SSAct.
3.8.1.100 Create links to substantial level of care and care situation.
3.8.3.10 Minor change to wording for DVA pensioners with children. Explain definition for dependent child under 1061PJ is different than under 1061PE.
3.8.3.20 Remove reference to .75 over a year. Include more information about start dates for qualifying study. Clarify rules for undertaking short course study.
3.8.3.30 Clarify information on study load for secondary students. Insert link to 3.8.3.40.
3.8.3.40 Explain definition for dependent child under 1061PJ is different than under 1061 PE. Insert link to new definition of sub 50% concessional study load student. Clarify rules for process against allowable study time for concessional study load students.
3.8.6.10 Clarify information about an Abstudy approved course. Include information about a proper claim.
3.8.6.20 Clarify that Abstudy PES is not a qualification for EdEP.
3.8.10.30 Clarify when customer claims CDEP and Abstudy.
3.9.1.70 Clarify reference to compensation.
4.1.7 General improvement to foregone wages details.
4.3.7.20 Clarify that person must be receiving a compensation affected payment at the time of the compensable event and commencement date of compensation lump sum preclusion period.
4.5.7 Clarify that Malaysian Ringgits are blocked income and cannot be assessed for FA purposes.
4.6.2.10 Assets exempt from assessment.
4.6.5.70 Assessing personal assets and financial investments.
4.6.7.30 Assets test hardship rules.
4.6.7.40 Assets test hardship rules.
4.6.7.50 Assets test hardship rules.
5.1.7.30 Remove effective date of 1 March 2000 for new rates.
6.2.5.40 Update policy in line with SS Admin Act.
6.4.1 Clarify affect of recipient's compensation payment on their partner's CAP.
Corrections
Topic No. Details
1.1.A.40 Correct link applied.
1.1.C.15 Correct link in dot point 6
1.1.C.210 Update the Commonwealth Training Award Rate.
1.1.E.180 Clarification of definition.
1.1.R.80 Remove Labour Market Programs no longer in existence eg Jobtrain.
3.1.4.20 Amend Act reference.
3.2.3.10 Sentence omitted in minimum age criteria.
3.2.5.70 Minor change to explain unreasonable to live at home assessment procedures.
3.7.4.20 Remove reference to 5 day rule when house becomes uninhabitable.
3.7.4.30 Words changed to reflect that CrP is not payable if disaster relief payment available.
3.7.4.50 CDP changed to CDEP.
3.10.5.65 Material moved from 5.3.1.50 - and new name PP Change between single and partnered.
3.11.1.20 Amendments to reflect the introduction of the Admin Bill.
3.11.1.30 Amendments to reflect the introduction of the Admin Bill.
4.2.1.10 Reference to Centrelink payment rates to replace income free table. New table for pension income taper rates pre and post 1/7/2000.
4.2.5.10 Clarify customers whose partner is receiving a Social Security pension, benefit or service pension are also exempt from the FA income test.
4.3.2 Update index.
4.3.2.30 Insertion of subsection on free accommodation. Exception and example for assessment of insurance payments. Additional links to Exempt Funeral Investments. Clarification of treatment of spousal maintenance.
4.3.3.10 Insertion of subsection on disputed wages and agency fees.
4.3.3.20 Clarification on treatment of GST costs for independent contracts. Insertion of additional link in Ministers of Religion.
4.3.3.50 Clarification of topic and provision of examples.
4.3.3.60 Remove reference to prescribed pre pension age person from salary sacrifice. Insert text on eligible person for superannuation purposes. Minor change under superannuation salary sacrifice. New sub heading - Assessment of superannuation contributions under the deeming rules. New subsection on other salary sacrifice arrangements. New sub section on Fringe Benefits - Ministers of Religion. Insertion of text on grossed up and degrossing fringe benefits. Insertion of text on free accommodation or board and lodging.
4.3.5.10 Insert text on disability pension reduced by limitation period and treatment of WWP and ISS for recipient's partner.
4.3.5.40 Clarify assessment when recipient has a partner.
4.3.6.10 Clarification on direct deduction treatment when residency less than 10 years. Advise that UK-Australia agreement will be terminated in 2001. Clarification of wording on Italian supplement.
4.3.6.50 Clarify when a customer can request a review of exchange rate used in determining foreign income.
4.3.8.30 Clarify net amount of income is negative. Clarification of treatment of interest on mortgage payments. Insert text on capital gains being included in FP entitlement.
4.3.9 Include reference to spousal maintenance and native title claims.
4.3.9.10 Clarify treatment of spousal maintenance in the hands of payer and receiver.
4.3.9.20 Include reference to Q&A sheet on FaCS website. Insert Guide cross references.
4.3.9.40 Insert text advising of MTPS role in exemption of approved scholarships.
4.3.9.50 Insert sub section on native title claims.
4.4.4.10 Insert link to 4.3.9.20. Refer to Q&A document on FaCS Internet site. Addition of income entry - income/conventional life insurance.
4.4.4.40 Correct table dealing with contributions to a superannuation fund after date of grant for salary packing arrangements - distinction of treatment between people of age pension age and below age pension age. Link to 4.3.3.60. Update table on investment owned by non-customer partners.
4.7.2.30 Clarification of policy - Treatment of assessable assets from private companies.
4.9.1.20 General provisions for assessing income streams from 20 September 1998.
4.9.2.10 Characteristics of an asset tested exempt income stream.
4.9.3.10 Income assessment of asset tested exempt income streams.
4.9.3.30 Income and assets assessment of asset tested income streams.
5.1.1.20 Update Youth Allowance rates for January 2000.
5.1.4.12 Correct link to illness separated couple.
5.4 Update Act reference for Mobility Allowance Advance.
5.4.1.10 Remove Exception paragraph no longer relevant.

Guide to Social Security Law Update 1442G # Date 27 March 2000

Policy Clarifications
Topic No. Details
2.2.2 Verifying Gender.
General Improvement
Topic No. Details
Acronym list

CAP - Compensation affected payment

SCAP - Saved compensation affected payment

AILO - Aboriginal & Islander Liaison Officer

BTR - Below threshold rate

ATR - Above threshold rate
1.1.C.250 Text amended to 'compensation affected payment'.
1.1.S.42 New keyword and text added for 'saved compensation affected' payment.
1.2.3.50 Added explanation of an ineligible customer for PLS purposes and another policy reference to PLS.
2.2.5.50 Clarification of policy guidelines which relate to the application of s24, particularly in relation to people whose partners are not residentially qualified for payment or subject to the NARWP.
2.2.10.30 Added further sources of verification for Maternity Immunisation Allowance.
3.4.2.30 Included entitlement to EdEP in the list of supplementary benefits for Wife pension & Widow B recipients.
3.4.4.70 Included entitlement to EdEP in the list of supplementary benefits for Wife pension & Widow B recipients.
3.5.9.80 Added instructions relating to "when children conceived through Artificial Insemination" procedures may be exempted from the Maintenance Action and Income Test.
3.6.1.50 Altered the compensation lump sum preclusion reference - the new reference is considered to be more informative.
3.6.1.70 Included EdEP entitlement information in the list of supplementary benefits and assistance for disability support pension recipients.
3.6.5.40 The Guide references have been altered to be more informative.
3.7.1.90 Included EdEP entitlement information in the list of supplementary benefits and assistance for some special benefit recipients.
3.8.10.120 Clarification of income averaging in respect of CDEP wages.
4.3.7.10 Clarification of payments which are not assessed as compensation. Clarification of compensation as a result of Army Reserve Activity.
4.3.7.30 Clarification of what is the compensation part of the lump sum after a contested hearing.
4.3.7.40 Clarification of the policy where a compensation claim is finalised after a contested hearing. Inclusion on the policy applied to cases settled under the Queensland case appraisal system.
4.3.7.50 Clarification of the policy applied where a lump sum is awarded but the customer continues to receive periodic compensation payments as well. Clarification of the policy where the customer receives an additional lump sum in respect of the same injury, disease or condition.
6.4.1 Clarification of the policy applied where a contravention of the Act has occurred and the income tests concession has been applied.
6.4.2 Clarification of when recovery is sought from a customer.
6.5 Minor improvements to debt recovery material to reflect comments made by various stakeholders (throughout the 6chapter5).
Corrections
Topic No. Details
1.1.C.15

Replacement of reference and link to DNCB with reference and link to CA (adult) in line with introduction of Carer Allowance.

Replacement of link to 1.1.R.250 with link to Act reference SSA 4(9)'… a person is in approved respite care…'.
3.1.6.30 Clarification of policy where a customer transfers to any compensation affected payment from a non-compensation affected payment.
3.4.5.10 Qualification for PLS - Deletion of Parenting Payment (single) from the qualification criteria and added rehabilitation allowance to bring into line with SSAct.
3.5.5.30 Correction of incorrect Policy reference from 3.2.5.60 to 3.5.2.60.
3.6.4.90 References to the carer or the carer's partner receiving compensation have been deleted because this is dealt with elsewhere in the Guide under general compensation references to compensation affected payments.
3.8.6.20 Clarifying that receipt of ABSTUDY PES is not a qualification for EdEP.
4.3.7.20 Clarification of the policy applying where one of a partnered couple is receiving a saved compensation affected payment when the other partner claims a compensation affected payment (this change is as a result of a SSAT decision).
4.4 Inclusion of new deeming rates effective from 20 March 2000 and update to examples of deeming rates calculations.
4.4.1.20 Operation of Deeming.
4.4.1.50 Deeming Rate Calculation - single DSP customer.
4.4.1.60 Deeming Rate Calculation - Age couple.
4.4.1.70 Deeming Rate Calculation - single WidB customer.
4.4.1.80 Deeming Rate Calculation - NSA customer, Partner receiving PP.
4.5.7 This change links 4.5.7 Target Foreign Income to 4.3.6.50 Arrears, Embargoes & Exchange rates for Overseas Income.
4.6 4.6.3.70 Exempting the Principal Home - Care Situations. Removal of note flagging pending legislation as it has now been passed. Clarification of the 5 Year exemption rule.
4.6.2.10 General Provisions for Exempt Assets - Removal of note flagging pending legislation as it has now been passed re Assessing nursing home bonds. Addition of an explanation of the operation of the exemption.
4.6.4.10 General Provisions for Special Residences - Correction relating to deeming on Entry Contributions and addition of Act reference.
4.6.5.90 Correction of Typing error in Example 1.

Guide to Social Security Law Update 1441G # Date 28 February 2000

New Policy (Chapter & Part)
Topic No. Details
6.6 Member of a Couple Reviews.
8.1 Claim Lodgement.
8.2 Reclaims & Transfers.
8.3 Start Days.
8.4 Payment Methods.
Policy Clarifications
Topic No. Details
Nil  
General Improvement
Topic No. Details
7.1.5.20 Links created for FA - portability provisions for overseas child payment (7.1.5.20 & 3.5.2.120).
7.2.2.10 Correction to formula.
Corrections
Topic No. Details
3.7.1.10 Reference to the Special Benefit User Guide has been removed and correct links to "Specidoc" has been applied.
Budget Initiative
Topic No. Details
1.1.N.60 Newly Arrived Resident Waiting Period [NARWP] (changes resulting from further 1998 Budget Measures).
1.1.N.70 Newly Arrived Resident Waiting Period [NARWP] (changes resulting from further 1998 Budget Measures).
3.1.2.45 NARWP - Saving Provisions (changes resulting from further 1998 Budget Measures).
3.1.2.70 NARWP - Exemptions from Waiting Periods (changes resulting from further 1998 Budget Measures).
3.2.1.30 NARWP - Waiting Periods for NSA (changes resulting from further 1998 Budget Measures).
3.3.1.30 NARWP - Payability of PA.d (changes resulting from further 1998 Budget Measures).
3.3.2.40 NARWP - Payability of MAA after 1 July 1996 (changes resulting from further 1998 Budget Measures).
3.4.3.10 NARWP - Qualification for WA (changes resulting from further 1998 Budget Measures).
3.4.3.20 NARWP - Payability for WA (changes resulting from further 1998 Budget Measures).
3.6.4.90 NARWP - Payability of CP (changes resulting from further 1998 Budget Measures).
3.6.5.70 NARWP - Waiting Periods for SA (changes resulting from further 1998 Budget Measures).
3.6.6.20 NARWP - Payability for MOB (changes resulting from further 1998 Budget Measures).

Guide to Social Security Act Update 1440G # Date 31 January 2000

New Policy
Topic No. Details
1.1.P.340 Amendment has been made to the 'PP child' definition to reflect new legislative provisions.
Policy Clarifications
Topic No. Details
2.2.5.50

Verifying Treatment as Not Being a Member of a Couple:

Under section 24 of the SSA, a delegate can decide that a partnered person should be treated as single for a special reason. This amendment will insert a short paragraph stressing the importance of keeping section 24 cases under strict review. The new paragraph will note that the purpose of the review is to identify whether it is appropriate to continue to apply section 24, or whether the person's circumstances have changed so that it is no longer appropriate to apply the discretion.
3.7.4.50 Payability of Crisis Payment. New paragraph entitled "CDEP participants - A CDEP scheme participant can receive the crisis payment. They must claim allowance/pension if they are not already on and must be qualified for the primary payment as well as the crisis payment."
4.3.2.31 Two additions - ATSIC Indigenous Business Incentive Programme Grants paid under the guidelines in effect prior to 1 July 1999, Second compensatory payment to an allowee couple made through the Award Wages Process for Indigenous Queenslanders.
4.9.1.20 Minor changes to General Provisions for assessing Income Streams from 20 September 1998 to take account of recent changes in APRA Regulations.
4.9.2 Minor Change to Asset - Test Exempt Income Stream - Characteristics & Commutation to take account of changes in APRA regulation of income streams.
4.9.2.30 Minor Change to Commuting an Asset - Test Exempt Income Stream to a Lump Sum dealing with partial commutations within the first 6 months.
4.9.2.40 Minor changes to Actuarial Valuation Certificate - Self Managed Superannuation Funds to take account of recent changes in APRA administration of these funds.
4.9.4 Minor clarification of application of life expectancy tables (Life Expectancy & Pension Valuation Factor Tables).
5.1.7.80

CPS - Current Rates. The current rate of CPS is $20.00 per fortnight (will increase to $20.80 from 1 July 2000 with tax reform changes).

Indexation (1.1.I.100). This rate is not indexed.

Timing of payment. Allowees can choose to receive their CPS payment fortnightly or 12 weekly. Pensioners receive their payment every fortnight with their pension entitlements.

Policy reference: The Guide, 3.8.10 CPS Qualification & Payability.
5.4.6

CDEP CPS Advance Payments

CDEP participants will not be able to receive an advance of income support because they will not be receiving a sufficiently high enough rate of allowance to meet the qualification requirements for an advance.

Pensioners are already able to qualify for an advance. When their CDEP wages are deducted dollar for dollar from their pension, their continued eligibility for an advance depends on how much pension they are receiving and whether they receive sufficient amounts of pension to qualify for an advance.

Policy reference: The Guide, 3.8.10 CPS Qualification & Payability.
7.1.5.40

Supplementary Benefits - Portability Provisions. A new paragraph is added

'CPS - portability provisions. CPS is an additional amount payable when a person is qualified for a social security pension or benefit. The normal portability provisions for the relevant payment type applies.

Policy reference: The Guide, Part 7, Portability

However, normal rules regarding CPS allowable breaks also apply here, so that if a person is overseas for more than three fortnights then the CPS is no longer payable as they have lost their basic qualification for CPS.'
General Improvement
Topic No. Details
1.1.H.60 HECS course, HECS loading (YA, Austudy) - Changing the example which is incorrect at present and defining "full time" for Youth Allowance purposes.
1.1.I.180 Intending Student (YA) - complete rewrite does not correctly reflect legislation.
3.2.10.30 YA Full-time Students Over 18 - removed the over 18.
3.6.4 Improved and updated carer payment and carer allowance. Does not impact other branches - Qualification & Payability CP, key terms, acronyms.
3.6.7 Qualification & Payability CA.
3.6.9 Qualification & Payability ADAT.
3.8.6.10 Correction of errors about payment of EdEP.
3.8.6.20 Correction of errors about payment of EdEP.
4.2.5.20 CDEP CPS added to acronym list.
6.2.1.30 Updated information in regards to monitoring Job search. These include: JSD benchmarks, strengthening the definition of "suitable work", and inclusion of a definition of "reasonable excuse" - 6.2.1.90, 6.2.1.70, 6.2.1.80, 6.2.1.50, 3.2.7.30, 1.1.S.410, 1.1.A.40, 1.1.V.67.
6.2.4.50 Details added regarding reconciling actual f/y income against estimate when an FA hardship case.
6.3.5.20 Details added regarding reconciling actual f/y income against estimate when an FA hardship case.
Corrections
Topic No. Details
3.8.3.40 "Correction of errors relating to rules for payment of education entry payment."
4.2.5.20 Minor amendment to the Hardship Table. Addition of "the minimum rate of FA" added in the fourth column of the table.
4.9.3.10 Minor corrections to Income Assessment of Asset-test Exempt Income Streams.
4.9.3.20 Minor correction to Income and Assets Assessment of Defined Benefit Income Streams.