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 - 2006

Guide to Social Security Law Updates - 4 December 2006 (v1.116)

Topic No Topic Title Details
1.1.C.146 Child with a Profound Disability (CP (child)) Added act reference.
1.1.M.20 Major disaster (AGDRP) Revised to reflect that Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) has replaced disaster relief payment.
1.2.6.20 Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) - Description Revised to reflect that Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) has replaced disaster relief payment.
2.2.12 Special Payments Verification Revised as Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) has replaced disaster relief payment from 1 December 2006.
3.1.4.30 Payment after Release Removed reference to disaster relief payment.
3.2.5.10 Qualification for YA as an Independent Young Person Added policy reference.
3.2.7.40 Setting Requirements for Inclusion in an Activity Agreement Added reference to information on what types of activities should not be included in an activity agreement.
3.2.7.50 Suitable Activities for Inclusion in an Activity Agreement Added information on what types of activities should not be included in an activity agreement.
3.2.8.10 Job Search - Overview Clarified job search requirements for recipients aged 55 years or more.
3.2.12.70 Activity Test Exemption - Principal Carer Parents with Special Family Circumstances - Case-by-Case exemptions Included additional information relating to a principal carer who is involved in the provision of informal kinship or family care.
3.2.13.30 Reasonable Excuse Added information about when non-receipt of mail constitutes a reasonable excuse.
3.5.1.280 Participation Requirements Exemption in Special Family Circumstances - Case-by-Case (PP) Added additional information relating to a PP recipient who is involved in the provision of informal kinship or family care.
3.7.2.90 SpB for Disaster Victims Revised to add information on the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) effective from 1 December 2006.
3.7.3 AGDRP - Qualification & Payability Revised as Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) has replaced disaster relief payment from 1 December 2006.
3.7.3.10 Qualification for AGDRP Revised as Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) has replaced disaster relief payment from 1 December 2006.
3.7.3.20 Determining the Rate of AGRDP Revised as Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) has replaced disaster relief payment from 1 December 2006.
3.7.4.30 Qualification for CrP - Extreme Circumstances (other) Revised as Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) has replaced disaster relief payment from 1 December 2006.
3.7.4.60 Payability of CrP - Extreme Circumstances (other) Revised for the introduction of Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP).
3.8.1.10 Qualification for RA Revised as Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) has replaced disaster relief payment from 1 December 2006.
3.9.1.10 Qualification for HCC - Automatic Issue Updated terminology in Table 4.
4.9.2.17 Criteria for post-20/09/2004 ATE Lifetime or Life Expectancy Income Streams to Retain 100 Per Cent Asset Test Exemption Updated title of the disallowable instrument specified in the summary.
5.1.6.20 AGDRP - Current Rates Revised as Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) has replaced disaster relief payment from 1 December 2006.
5.1.8.10 Common Pension Rates Removed reference to disaster relief payment.
5.3.4.10 Taxation of Payments & PAYG Payment Summary - Individual Non-Business Revised as Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) has replaced disaster relief payment from 1 December 2006.
8.1.4.60 Special Payments - Documentation Required Updated as Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) has replaced disaster relief payment.
8.3.2 Start Days for Early Claims Removed reference to disaster relief payment.
8.3.3.10 Backdated Start Days - General Provisions Updated as Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) has replaced disaster relief payment.
8.4.3 Protection of Payment Clarified inalienability for recipients with nominees.

Guide to Social Security Law Updates - 6 November 2006 (v1.115)

Topic No Topic Title Details
1.1.C.210 Commonwealth Training Award rate (YA) Moved information to 1.1.N.12 due to change in terminology.
1.1.H.80 Host country agreement Clarified example and added act reference.
1.1.N.12 National Training Wage Award rate (YA) New topic.
1.1.N.70 Newly arrived resident's waiting period (NARWP) Added information relating to the HCC NARWP.
1.1.Q.35 Qualifying residence exemption Updated to include HCCs.
1.1.R.270 Retirement village Amended information about delegation for decisions about retirement villages.
1.1.S.200 Social security entitlement Updated definition of social security entitlement.
1.2.7.130 Utilities Allowance (UA) - Description Updated to reflect change to qualification criterion - MAA, PA and WA recipients now qualify.
3.1.2.70 Exemptions from Waiting Periods Clarified NARWP exemption for HCC.
3.1.7.30 Calculating A SWPP Added table relating to members of a couple where only one is a seasonal worker.
3.2.5.10 Qualification for YA as an Independent Young Person Clarified material relating to partial capacity to work.
3.2.5.80 YA - Self-supporting through Paid Employment Updated to reflect change from Commonwealth Training Award rate to National Training Wage Award rate.
3.7.1.80 Determining the Rate of SpB Added information relating to parental means test for a person under 18 years of age.
3.7.2.70 SpB for Young People Under 18 years of Age Added information relating to people aged 16 and 17 years old.
3.7.4.10 Qualification for CrP - General Provisions Amended residence requirements.
3.8.5.10 Qualification for EEP - NSA, MAA, PA & WA Recipients Corrected Table 3 reference to 4 weeks instead of 4 fortnights.
3.8.13 UA - Qualification & Payability Updated to reflect change to qualification criterion - MAA, PA and WA recipients now qualify.
3.9.1.20 Qualification for Low Income HCC Updated card qualification details relating to prisoners and detainees.
3.9.3.10 Qualification for CSHC Updated card qualification details relating to prisoners and detainees.
3.9.4 Confirmation of Concession Card Entitlement Removed information on 'duration of the confirmation of concession card entitlement' and 'overseas customers'.
3.10.2.50 CIS Customer Entitlement Periods Updated policy.
3.10.3.40 CIS Customers - Payment Delivery Updated policy.
4.3.2.30 Other Income Exempt from Assessment - Legislated Clarified exempt income for compensation insurance payments.
4.3.4.10 Application of the Income Maintenance Period (IMP) Corrected mathematical error in example 4.
4.4.1.40 Exemption of Financial Investments from Deeming Clarified deeming exemption for compensation and insurance payments.
4.6.4.30 Assessing Retirement Villages Provided additional information about determining a person's entry contribution where more than one contract is involved.
4.14 Means Test Concessions for Special Disability Trusts Updated policy to reflect new legislative instruments.
5.1.7.100 SCA - Current Rate New topic.
5.1.7.110 UA - Current Rates New topic.
5.2.6.90 SCA Historical Rates - December 2004 to Present Date New topic.
5.2.6.100 UA Historical Rates - March 2005 to Present Date New topic.
5.4.1.10 Qualification for Advance Payments Updated definition of social security entitlement.
7.2.1.10 Departure & Arrival Notification Removed reference to newstart allowance recipients aged 50 years or over.
7.2.1.20 Recipient Advice Before Departure Removed reference to newstart allowance recipients aged 50 years or over.
10.1.4.20 Date of Lodgement of Claims & Documents Under Agreements Clarified qualifying time after claims received by Centrelink.

Guide to Social Security Law Updates - 3 October 2006 (v1.114)

Topic No Topic Title Details
1.1.H.80 Host country agreement Updated example.
1.1.S.100 Severe disability (CA) Added Diabetes Mellitus Type 1 to list of severe disabilities.
3.7.2.10 SpB for Newly Arrived Residents Added visas 070 and 787 to exemptions from the SpB newly arrived resident's waiting period. Added information relating to spouse provisional visa holders.
3.8.4.70 Repayment of the Financial Supplement - Before the Contract Ends Amended who early repayments must be made directly to.
4.1.1 General Provisions of Deprivation Added information relating to special disability trusts.
4.3.2.30 Other Income Exempt from Assessment - Legislated Clarified information for dependent children and treatment of irregular superannuation amounts. Added information about first home buyers grant.

Guide to Social Security Law Updates - 20 September 2006 (v1.113)

Topic No Topic Title Details
1.1.A.375 AWOTE, relevant AWOTE, AWOTE weeks Updated AWOTE figure.
1.1.F.225 Full-time education or training course (NSA) New topic.
1.1.I.60 Income maintenance period (IMP) (NSA, YA, Austudy, WA, MAA, PA, PP, SA, DSP) Extended the income maintenance period to disability support pension recipients.
1.1.I.195 Intermittent work New topic.
1.1.R.137 Relevant period of seasonal/intermittent work New topic.
1.1.R.143 Relevant weekly wage New topic.
1.1.S.45 Seasonal work Moved definition of relevant period of seasonal work to 1.1.R.137 and definition of intermittent work to 1.1.I.195.
1.1.S.46 Seasonal/intermittent work earnings Updated list of payments the term applies to.
1.1.S.242 Special disability trust New topic.
1.1.S.455 SWPP Revised the definition of seasonal work preclusion period.
1.1.S.456 SWPP affected payment (Deleted - see 1.1.S.455) Deleted topic.
1.1.U.40 Unemployment due to misconduct (NSA, YA) Updated definition.
2.2.5.15 Polygamous Relationships New topic.
2.2.7 Newstart & Youth Allowance Verification Updated policy, including table of verification required.
3.1.7.10 Who is Affected by a SWPP Updated payment types that are subject to SWPP.
3.1.7.20 SWPP Provisions Updated to include intermittent work. Clarified effect of claimant engaging in a second seasonal job while serving a SWPP.
3.1.7.30 Calculating a SWPP Updated to include intermittent work.
3.1.7.60 SWPP - Transfer between Payments Clarified examples to reflect payment types that are subject to the seasonal work preclusion period.
3.1.7.90 Examples of Waiving the SWPP - Single Customers Updated AWOTE rates.
3.2.2.60 Unemployment due to Misconduct (deleted - see 1.1.U.40) Deleted topic.
3.2.3.30 Waiting, Preclusion & Exclusion Periods for YA Updated policy to reflect that seasonal work preclusion period now applies to youth allowance (student).
3.2.9.70 Approved Activity - Full-time Short Courses Revised content for clarity.
3.2.13.10 Types of Penalties & Failures Clarified 'additional information - unemployment due to misconduct'.
3.3.3.20 Payability of Austudy Updated policy to reflect that SWPP now applies to Austudy.
3.5.1.90 Payability Summary for PP Updated policy to reflect that seasonal work preclusion period now applies to parenting payment.
3.5.1.100 Payability of PP - Single Rate Updated policy to reflect that seasonal work preclusion period now applies to parenting payment.
3.5.1.110 Payability of PP - Partnered Rate Updated policy to reflect that seasonal work preclusion period now applies to parenting payment.
3.6.1.50 Payability of DSP Updated to reflect that seasonal work preclusion period now applies to disability support pension.
3.6.5.70 Waiting Periods for SA Updated to reflect that seasonal work preclusion period now applies to sickness allowance.
3.9.1.65 HCC Benefits Updated to reflect changes to Australia Post concessions.
3.9.1.70 Low Income HCC - Assessment of Income Updated rates.
3.9.2.20 PCC Benefits Updated to reflect changes to Australia Post concessions.
4.3.1.10 Determining the Rate of Income for Benefits Added that seasonal work preclusion period now includes intermittent work.
4.3.3.70 Income from General Employee Entitlements & Redundancy Scheme (GEERS) Updated to reflect that redundancy payments are treated as ordinary income.
4.3.4.10 Application of the Income Maintenance Period (IMP) Added that redundancy payments are now included in the IMP and IMP is now applied to DSP.
4.3.4.20 Definition of Leave for the IMP Updated policy on exclusions when calculating the income maintenance period.
4.3.4.30 Description: ETP & Roll-overs for the IMP Updated policy.
4.10.7.60 Historical Income Limits for Low Income HCC from 20/9/96 Updated rates.
4.14 Means Test Concessions for Special Disability Trusts New chapter.
5.1.7.10 RA - Current Rates Updated rates.
5.1.7.60 TAL - Current Rates Updated rates.
5.1.8.10 Common Pension Rates Updated rates.
5.1.8.20 Common Benefit Rates Updated rates.
5.2.1.20 Single Unemployment & Sickness Benefit - November 1984 to Present Date Updated rates.
5.2.1.30 Married Unemployment & Sickness Benefit - November 1984 to Present Date Updated rates.
5.2.2.10 Rates of Pension - July 1909 to Present Date Updated rates.
5.2.2.20 Additional Payments - April 1943 to Present Date Updated rates.
5.2.3.10 Widow Class A, Supporting Parent's Benefit, Sole Parent Pension - Rates from July 1942 to Present Date Updated rates.
5.2.3.30 Widow B, C & D Pension, Bereavement Allowance - July 1942 to Present Date Updated rates.
5.2.4.40 RA (families with children) - December 1987 to Present Date Updated rates.
5.2.4.50 Parenting Payment & Associated Rates - July 1995 to Present Date Updated rates.
5.2.6.10 RA Rates - June 1990 to Present Date Updated rates.
5.2.6.40 TAL & Telephone Concession - January 1990 to Present Date Updated rates.
8.1.2.40 Claim Determination - Payment Specific Provisions Updated payment types that are subject to SWPP.
9.2.8 Visa Subclass 574 Masters and Doctorate Sector Added Australian residency exceptions for CCB in relation to certain scholarships.

Guide to Social Security Law Updates - 4 September 2006 (v1.112)

The Guide was extensively updated in July 2006 as a result of the implementation of the Welfare to Work initiative. A number of sections were moved and/or renumbered. Areas particularly affected included 3.2.2, 3.2.7, 3.2.8, 3.2.9, 3.2.10, 3.2.11, 3.2.12, 3.2.13, 3.5.1 and 6.2.1.

Topic No Topic Title Details
3.1.4.41 Effect of Home Detention on Social Security Benefits, Social Security Pensions, PP, PES & CrP Removed information about payment of family allowance, FTP, DOP, MAT and MIA.
3.5.1.140 Notification & Recipient Obligations for PP Reworded last dot point under notifiable events for PP for clarification.
4.3.1.25 Determining the Assessable Income for Pension Customers Below Age Pension Age Added link to disallowable instrument, Social Security (Attribution of Income) Principles 2002 and updated terminology.
4.7.1.50 Assessment of Assets for Partnerships Clarified the treatment of loans to a business by a partner.
4.12.3.50 Background to Non-Express (Implied) Trusts Restructured information on non-express (implied) trusts which includes constructive trusts. Specific information on constructive trusts now found in 4.12.3.51.
4.12.3.51 Constructive Trusts New topic.
4.12.3.52 Resulting Trusts New topic.
4.12.3.53 Other Non-Express (Implied) Trusts New topic.
4.12.3.60 Implied Trusts (deleted - see 4.12.3.50) Deleted content due to the restructure of the information on non-express (implied) trusts.
4.12.9.10 Resignations from a Controlled Private Trust or Controlled Private Company On or After 01/01/2002 Clarified the assessment of attributable or distribution income upon resignation.
4.13.1.30 Effect of Compensation on Compensation Affected Payments Added information on 'Date of Compensable Event' previously found in 4.13.2.10.
4.13.2.10 Overview of Lump Sums for Compensation Moved information on 'Date of Compensable Event' to 4.13.1.30.
4.13.2.70 Commencement of Lump Sum Preclusion Period Added policy reference.
4.13.3.10 Overview of Periodic Compensation Payments Added policy reference.

Guide to Social Security Law Updates - 7 August 2006 (v1.111)

The Guide was extensively updated in July 2006 as a result of the implementation of the Welfare to Work initiative. A number of sections were moved and/or renumbered. Areas particularly affected included 3.2.2, 3.2.7, 3.2.8, 3.2.9, 3.2.10, 3.2.11, 3.2.12, 3.2.13, 3.5.1 and 6.2.1.

Topic No Topic Title Details
1.1.P.57 Participation agreement Topic deleted.
1.1.U.40 Unemployment due to misconduct (NSA, YA) Included information that a jobseeker who has been dismissed for misconduct can incur an 8-week non-payment period from date of unemployment.
2.2.5.50 Discretion to Treat a Recipient as Not Being a Member of a Couple for a Special Reason Clarified information regarding reviews.
3.3.5.20 Participation Interviews for MAA, PA & WA Updated terminology and removed information relating to Personal Advisers.
3.3.5.30 Participation Interviews for MAA, PA & WA - Interview Content Updated terminology.
3.4.7.60 PBS Work Test Clarified the use of tax records to satisfy the work test.
3.9.1.45 Foster Child HCC Updated to reflect the new claim form for the foster child HCC.
4.4.1.20 Operation of Deeming Updated deeming thresholds.
4.4.1.50 Deeming Rate Calculation - Single DSP Recipient Updated deeming thresholds.
4.4.1.60 Deeming Rate Calculation - Age Couple Updated deeming thresholds.
4.4.1.70 Deeming Rate Calculation - Single WidB Recipient Updated deeming thresholds.
4.4.1.80 Deeming Rate Calculation - NSA Recipient, Partner Receiving PP Updated deeming thresholds.
4.4.1.90 Deeming Rate Calculation - Pensioner & Non-Pensioner Couple Updated deeming thresholds.
4.12.11.20 Qualification Provisions for the Primary Production Concession Updates thresholds for primary production attribution and FTB Part A.
4.13.4.20 Factors to Consider When Determining Special Circumstance Provisions Clarified text regarding special circumstances.
5.1.4.12 PP - Calculating a Rate of PP - General Removed material relating to a participation agreement breach rate reduction.
9.2.2 Visa Subclasses 100-149 Payment Eligibility Visa subclass 117 Orphan Relative Amended assurance of support condition from mandatory to discretionary.

Guide to Social Security Law Updates - 17 July 2006 (v1.110)

The Guide was extensively updated in July 2006 as a result of the implementation of the Welfare to Work initiative. A number of sections were moved and/or renumbered. Areas particularly affected included 3.2.2, 3.2.7, 3.2.8, 3.2.9, 3.2.10, 3.2.11, 3.2.12, 3.2.13, 3.5.1 and 6.2.1.

Topic No Topic Title Details
1.1.C.10 Care & attention (CA) Clarified information on daily care.
1.1.P.416 Principal carer - shared care Added material for deciding principal carer parent when income fluctuates.
3.1.2.40 Newly Arrived Resident's Waiting Period Added material relating to exemption from the NARWP.
3.1.2.70 Exemptions from Waiting Periods Added material relating to principal carer exemption from the NARWP.
3.1.4.05 Payability During Periods in Gaol or Psychiatric Confinement Removed reference to CA not being payable to a person during periods in gaol or psychiatric confinement.
3.1.4.10 Situations that Constitute Being in Gaol or Psychiatric Confinement Removed reference to CA not being payable to a person during periods in gaol or psychiatric confinement.
3.1.5.110 Bereavement Payment Provisions from PP Customers Added note that bereavement payment provisions exist for single principal carer parents on NSA.
3.2.1.10 Qualification for NSA Added act reference.
3.2.2.10 Sufficient Work Added material on principal carer parents.
3.2.3.70 Continuation,Variation or Termination of YA Added material about death of a principal carere parent's child.
3.2.7.30 What is an Activity Agreement? Added act reference.
3.2.8.20 Job Search - Unsuitable Work - General Added material about financial suitability of a job for principal carers.
3.2.8.40 Job Search - Setting Job Search Requirements Added material about fortnightly work of less than 30 hours for mature age NSA recipients.
3.2.8.80 Job Search - Employer Contact Certificates (ECCs) Added policy reference.
3.2.9.30 Approved Activity - Community Work & Voluntary Work Clarified information on community and voluntary work for jobseekers 55 years and over.
3.2.9.50 Approved Activity - Full-time WFD Updated 'Assessing whether a jobseeker has a pattern of work avoidance'.
3.2.9.60 Approved Activity - Defence Force Reserves Clarified the summary table on Defence Force Reserve Activity.
3.2.9.70 Approved Activity - Education & Training Removed exception.
3.2.10.150 Mutual Obligation Activity - Defence Force Reserve Reworded for clarity.
3.2.12.40 Activity Test Exemption - Special Circumstances Reworded for clarity.
3.2.12.50 Activity Test Exemption - Principal Carer Parents with Special Family Circumstances - Overview Reworded for clarity.
3.2.12.60 Activty Test Exemption - Principal Carer Parents with Special Family Circumstances - Automatic Exemptions Reworded for clarity.
3.2.12.70 Activity Test Exemption - Principal Carer Parents with Special Family Circumstances - Case-by-Case Exemptions Reworded for clarity.
3.5.1.170 Approved Activity - Job Search (PP) Updated number of job contacts required in example.
3.5.1.240 Participation Requirements Exemption - Remote Areas (PP) Updated policy.
3.5.1.260 Participation Requirements Exemption in Special Family Circumstances - Overview (PP) Removed information about temporary absences from Australia.
3.5.1.270 Participation Requirements Exemption in Special Family Circumstances - Automatic (PP) Clarified policy.
3.5.1.280 Participation Requirements Exemption in Special Family Circumstances - Case-by-Case (PP) Expanded information regarding THPs.
3.6.7.30 Qualification for CA Removed reference to CA not being payable to a person during periods in gaol or psychiatric confinement.
3.6.7.105 Payability of CA - Customer in Gaol or in Psychiatric Confinement Removed topic.
3.7.5.10 What are the SpB Activity Tests? Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.7.5.70 Study for SpB Recipients Updated information on full-time study and acceptable full-time courses for special benefit recipients.
3.8.2.20 Treatment of PhA from DVA Clarified rate of PhA when the person or their partner receives PhA from DVA.
5.5.3.30 Partnered NSA Recipient, Partner's Income Results in Nil Rate, or Partner Not on Income Support Clarified application of partner income test.

Guide to Social Security Law Updates - 3 July 2006 (v1.109)

The Guide has been extensively updated as a result of the implementation of the Welfare to Work initiative introduced on 1 July 2006. A number of sections have been moved and/or renumbered. Areas particularly affected include 3.2.2, 3.2.7, 3.2.8, 3.2.9, 3.2.10, 3.2.11, 3.2.12, 3.2.13, 3.5.1 and 6.2.1.

Topic No Topic Title Details
1.1.A.10 Accommodated independent person (YA) Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
1.1.A.30 Activity Agreement (NSA, YA, PP) New topic.
1.1.A.40 Activity test (NSA, YA (jobseekers)) Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
1.1.A.190 Approved activities (NSA, YA) Removed activities of less than 20 hours per week, updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
1.1.A.371 Award wages (DSP, CA) (deleted - see topic) Deleted topic. For current policy, see 1.1.R.133.
1.1.A.375 AWOTE, relevant AWOTE, AWOTE weeks Updated rate.
1.1.B.65 Better Assessment - At Risk (deleted - see topic) Deleted topic.
1.1.C.146 Child with a Profound Disability (CP (child)) Expanded definition of a profoundly disabled child.
1.1.C.170 Clean slate provision (YA) Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
1.1.C.330 Continuing inability to work (CITW) (DSP) Clarified policy to reflect new 15 and 30 hour rules for DSP.
1.1.I.95 Independently of a programme of support New topic.
1.1.J.10 Job Capacity Assessment (JCA) New title and content.Moved previous content to 1.1.J.30.
1.1.J.20 Job Capacity Assessment (JCA) Provider New topic.
1.1.J.30 Job search (higher rate MOB) New topic.
1.1.J.40 Job search activities (standard rate MOB) Moved from 1.1.J.10 and updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
1.1.N.70 Newly arrived resident's waiting period (NARWP) Added definitions for 'current period as an Australian resident' and 'lone parent'.
1.1.P.56 Partial capacity to work (NSA, YA (jobseeker), PP & SpB (NVH)) New topic.
1.1.P.90 Part-time employment (DSP) Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
1.1.P.232 Personal Adviser (deleted - see topic) Deleted topic.
1.1.P.340 PP child (PP) Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
1.1.P.414 Principal carer New topic.
1.1.P.415 Principal carer - foster care New topic.
1.1.P.416 Principal carer - shared care New topic.
1.1.P.510 Preparing for Work Agreement (NSA, YA) (deleted - see topic) Deleted topic. For current policy, see 1.1.A.30.
1.1.R.133 Relevant minimum wage (DSP, MOB, Partial capacity to work & CA) New topic.
1.1.S.150 Sharer (RA) Clarified policy, emphasised concept of legal right.
1.1.S.403 Sufficient work test New topic.
1.1.S.410 Suitable, unsuitable work (NSA, YA) (deleted - see topic) Deleted topic. For current policy, see 1.1.U.55.
1.1.T.70 Temporary incapacity for work (NSA, YA (jobseeker)) Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
1.1.T.105 Tools for monitoring job search (NSA, YA) (deleted - see topic) Deleted topic. For current policy, see 3.2.8.40.
1.1.T.137 Training activity (DSP) New topic.
1.1.T.147 Transitional applicant (DSP) New topic.
1.1.T.190 Two or more children with disabilities (CP (child)) Updated definition.
1.1.U.30 Unemployed (NSA) Added overview section.
1.1.U.55 Unsuitable work (NSA, YA) New topic.
1.1.V.60 Vocational training (MOB) Updated act and policy references.
1.1.V.70 Voluntary work (NSA, YA, MOB) Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
1.1.W.60 Work (any) (DSP) Updated to reflect new 15 and 30 hour rules for DSP.
1.1.Y.30 Youth allowance jobseeker New topic.
1.2.1.20 Youth Allowance (YA) - Description Added policy for young person who has a partial capacity to work or is a principal carer parent. Updated to reflect additional supplementary benefits available to YA recipients.
1.2.4.10 Parenting Payment (PP) - Description Added policy regarding new qualification and participation requirements.
1.2.5.10 Disability Support Pension (DSP) - Description - 30 Hour Rule Added policy regarding qualification under the 30 hour rule.
1.2.5.12 Disability Support Pension (DSP) 15 Hour Rule - Description New topic.
1.2.5.40 Mobility Allowance (MOB) - Description Updated to reflect higher rate of MOB.
1.2.7.20 Pharmaceutical Allowance (PhA) - Description Added information on partial capacity to work and principal carer parents.
1.2.7.50 Employment Entry Payment (EEP) - Description Clarified when an EEP may not be available.
1.2.7.70 Telephone Allowance (TAL) - Description Added when a TAL may not be available, and information on partial capacity to work and principal carer parents.
1.2.7.140 Youth Disability Supplement (YDS) - Description New topic.
1.2.8.10 Health Care Card (HCC) - Description Added extended qualification for HCC and claim required for HCC.
1.2.8.20 Pensioner Concession Card (PCC) - Description Updated act references.
2.2.13.20 RA - Verification Required Added summary section and information that leases need to be copied in entirety.
3.1.3 Notification & Recipient Obligations Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.1.10 Personal Adviser Participation Planning Interview (deleted - see topic) Deleted whole section.
3.1.11.40 Working Credit Daily Calculation Examples Updated income test and taper levels.
3.2.1.10 Qualification for NSA Added summary section, information on partial capacity to work, principal carers and clarified the need for proper claim.
3.2.1.20 Payability of NSA Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.2.1.35 Move to Area of Lower Employment Prospects for NSA, YA & SpB Recipients Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.2.1.45 Exemption from RapidConnect Provisions Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.2.1.90 Continuation, Variation or Termination of NSA Added information on death of a principal carer's child.
3.2.2 Who is Unemployed for NSA? Restructured and revised whole section to reflect the Welfare to Work initiative.
3.2.3.10 Qualification for YA Added information on partial capacity to work and principal carer parents.
3.2.3.35 Move to Area of Lower Employment Prospects for YA Recipients (deleted - see 3.2.1.35) Deleted topic. For current policy, see 3.2.1.35.
3.2.3.45 RapidConnect - Impact on YA Payability Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.2.3.50 Supplementary Benefits & Employment Assistance for YA Recipients Updated additional benefits that may be available to YA recipients.
3.2.4 YA Exemption from Full-time Education/Training for U18s Updated whole section to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.2.5.10 Qualification for YA as an Independent Young Person Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.2.6.10 Qualification for Away from Home of YA Updated terminology used.
3.2.6.20 Rules that Determine the Need to Live Away from Home for YA Clarified where a young person may not be approved to live away from home.
3.2.7 NSA/YA Activity Testing Restructured and extensively revised whole section to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.2.8 NSA/YA Satisfying the Activity Test - Job Search

New titles and content in the whole section.

Updated policy of similar nature to the previous content can be found in 3.2.9.
3.2.9 NSA/YA Satisfying the Activity Test - Approved Activities

New titles and content in the whole section.

Updated policy of similar nature to the previous content can be found in 3.2.12.
3.2.10 NSA/YA Satisfying the Activity Test - Mutual Obligation Initiative (MOI)

New titles and content in the whole section.

Moved previous content to 3.2.11.
3.2.11 YA Activity Testing for Students New titles and content in the whole section. Moved and updated policy previously found in 3.2.10 to this section.
3.2.12 Activity Test Exemptions New titles and content in the whole section.
3.2.13 Activity Test Compliance Arrangements New titles and content in the whole section.
3.3.1.10 Qualification for PA Updated compliance arrangements.
3.3.1.20 Issues Affecting Qualification for PA Updated act references.
3.3.3.10 Qualification for Austudy Updated terminology used.
3.3.3.20 Payability of Austudy Updated policy references.
3.3.3.40 Supplementary Benefits & Assistance for Austudy Recipients Updated terminology used.
3.3.3.50 Notification & Recipient Obligations for Austudy Updated terminology used.
3.3.3.60 Continuation, Variation or Termination of Austudy Updated terminology used.
3.3.5.10 Participation Support (MAA, PA, WA) - Background Removed information on the role of a Centrelink personal advisor and motivating and encouraging.
3.3.6.10 Participation Support for WA (WA - post 20/09/03) - Background Updated terminology used.
3.3.6.20 Participation Interviews for Widow Allowees (post 20/09/03) Removed information on motivating and encouraging.
3.3.6.30 Review of Entitlements & Assessment of Circumstances for Widow Allowees (post 20/09/03) Updated terminology used.
3.3.6.40 Participation Support - Deferring Compulsory Interviews (post 20/09/03) Updated terminology used.
3.3.6.50 Participation Support - Interview Rescheduling (WA - post 20/09/03) Updated terminology used.
3.3.6.60 Participation Support - Failure to Attend a Compulsory Interview (WA - post 20/09/03) Updated terminology used.
3.3.6.70 Participation Support - Follow-up Interviews (WA - post 20/09/03) Updated terminology used.
3.4.3.70 Participation Support for WA Updated terminology used.
3.5.1.10 Qualification Summary for PP Updated policy references and terminology used.
3.5.1.15 Qualification for PP - Transitional Arrangements New topic.
3.5.1.20 Child-related Qualification for PP - Overview Updated act references and terminology used.
3.5.1.50 Child-related Qualification for PP - Shared Care Removed information on child in a psychiatric institution, terminology used and act references.
3.5.1.60 Child-related Qualification for PP - Change in Existing Shared Care (deleted - see topic) Deleted topic.
3.5.1.65 Child-related Qualification for PP - Foster Care Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative, most information now found in 1.1.P.415.
3.5.1.70 Residence Qualification for PP - Overview Updated terminology used.
3.5.1.85 Qualification for PP during Self-employment Clarified income that is subject to the income test.
3.5.1.90 Payability Summary for PP Updated terminology used.
3.5.1.100 Payability of PP - Single Rate Updated terminology used and act references.
3.5.1.110 Payability of PP - Partnered Rate Updated terminology used and act references.
3.5.1.130 Supplementary Benefits & Employment Assistance for PP Recipients Updated terminology used and employment assistance policy.
3.5.1.140 Notification & Recipient Obligations for PP Added information to notify of an exemption from the activity test.
3.5.1.150 Continuation, Variation or Termination of PP Updated terminology used.
3.5.1.160 When are Activity Agreements Required? (PP) Restructured and extensively revised. Removed previous content, and numbers used for new policy.
3.5.1.170 Approved Activity - Job Search (PP) Removed previous content, and number used for new policy.
3.5.1.180 Approved Activity - Study (PP) Removed previous content, and number used for new policy.
3.5.1.190 Other Approved Activities (PP) Removed previous content, and number used for new policy.
3.5.1.200 Suitable Work (PP) Removed previous content, and number used for new policy.
3.5.1.210 What is the MO Initiative? (PP) Removed previous content, and number used for new policy.
3.5.1.220 Participation Requirements Exemption - Temporary Incapacity (PP) Removed previous content, and number used for new policy.
3.5.1.230 Participation Requirements Exemption - Pregnancy (PP) Removed previous content, and number used for new policy.
3.5.1.240 Participation Requirements Exemption - Remote Areas (PP) Removed previous content, and number used for new policy.
3.5.1.250 Participation Requirements Exemption - Special Circumstances (PP) Removed previous content, and number used for new policy.
3.5.1.260 Participation Requirements Exemption in Special Family Circumstances - Overview (PP) Removed previous content, and number used for new policy.
3.5.1.270 Participation Requirements Exemption in Special Family Circumstances - Automatic (PP) Removed previous content, and number used for new policy.
3.5.1.280 Participation Requirements Exemption in Special Family Circumstances - Case-By-Case (PP) Removed previous content, and number used for new policy.
3.6.1.10 Qualification for DSP - 30 Hour Rule Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.6.1.12 Qualification for DSP - 15 Hour Rule New topic.
3.6.1.20 Qualification for DSP during Employment - 30 Hour Rule Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.6.1.22 Qualification for DSP during Employment - 15 Hour Rule New topic.
3.6.1.30 Qualification for DSP during Self-employment - 30 Hour Rule Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.6.1.32 Qualification for DSP during Self-employment - 15 Hour Rule New topic.
3.6.1.40 Qualification for DSP during Study or Training - 30 hour rule Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.6.1.42 Qualification for DSP during Study or Training - 15 Hour Rule New topic.
3.6.1.45 Qualification for DSP - After 2 Years on Income Support with Suitable Training Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.6.1.55 Transitional Arrangements for People Granted DSP 11/05/2005 to 30/06/2006 New topic.
3.6.1.65 Sustainability of Work & DSP - 30 Hour Rule New topic.
3.6.1.67 Sustainability of Work & DSP - 15 Hour Rule New topic.
3.6.1.70 Supplementary Benefits & Employment Assistance for DSP Recipients Updated terminology used.
3.6.1.100 Continuation, Variation or Termination of DSP - 30 Hour Rule Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.6.1.102 Continuation, Variation or Termination of DSP - 15 Hour Rule New topic.
3.6.2 Assessment for DSP Updated terminology used, removed better assessment policy.
3.6.2.10 Medical Evidence for DSP Updated policy where claimant/recipient needs confirmation of blindness from treating professional/s.
3.6.2.30 Manifest Grants & Continuing Inability to Work (DSP) Updated terminology used.
3.6.2.40 Assessment of Blindness for DSP Updated policy where claimant/recipient needs confirmation of blindness from treating professional/s.
3.6.2.60 Assessments by Centrelink Disability Officers for DSP (deleted - see topic) Deleted topic.
3.6.2.70 Assessments by Centrelink Psychologists for DSP (deleted - see topic) Deleted topic.
3.6.2.80 Assessments by Medical Assessment Service Providers for DSP (deleted - see topic) Deleted topic.
3.6.2.90 Assessments by Work Capacity Assessors for DSP (deleted - see topic) Deleted topic.
3.6.2.100 DSP Assessment of Impairment Ratings Updated terminology used and policy references.
3.6.2.110 DSP Assessment of Continuing Inability to Work - 30 Hour Rule Updated terminology used and policy and act references.
3.6.2.112 DSP Assessment of Continuing Inability to Work - 15 Hour Rule New topic.
3.6.2.120 Identification of Barriers & Interventions (DSP) Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.6.2.130 DSP Assessment of Ability to Undertake Training - 30 Hour Rule Updated to reflect new 30 hour rule for DSP.
3.6.2.132 DSP Assessment of Ability to Undertake Training - 15 Hour Rule New topic.
3.6.2.140 DSP Claimants Aged 55 Years or More Updated terminology used.
3.6.4.10 Qualification for CP Clarified definition of a profoundly disabled child.
3.6.4.15 CP (Child) Conditions Related to Qualifying as a Child with a Profound Disability New topic.
3.6.6.10 Qualification for MOB Added minimum age qualification requirement, updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.6.6.40 Assessment of Gainful Employment for Standard Rate MOB Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.6.6.50 Assessment of Vocational Training for Standard Rate MOB Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.6.6.51 Assessment of Vocational Training for Higher Rate MOB New topic.
3.6.6.52 Assessment of Independent Living Skills/Life Skills Training for Standard Rate MOB Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.6.6.53 Assessment of Voluntary Work for Standard Rate MOB Clarified policy only applied to standard rate MOB.
3.6.6.54 Assessment of 32 Hours every 4 Weeks Rule for Standard Rate MOB Updated terminology used.
3.6.6.55 Assessment of Continuing Basis for Standard Rate MOB Updated terminology used.
3.6.6.80 Notification & Recipient Obligations for MOB Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative, and terminology used.
3.6.6.90 Continuation of MOB during Leave from Employment & Training Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.6.6.100 Termination of MOB Updated terminology used.
3.6.7.160 Backdating Start Day for CA Updated policy.
3.6.11 Work Ability Tables (WATS) Clarified that from 1 July 2006, these tables are no longer in use.
3.7.2.70 SpB for Young People Under 18 Years of Age Clarified policy.
3.7.5.10 What are the SpB Activity Tests? Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.7.5.20 Who do the SpB Activity Tests Apply to? Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.7.5.30 SpB Activity Test Exemptions Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.7.5.40 Non-compliance with SpB Activity Test Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.7.5.50 SpB Activity Agreement Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.8.1.70 Board & Lodging for RA Clarified material on free board and lodging.
3.8.1.90 Temporary Accommodation & RA Added information on temporary accommodation when providing a substantial level of care.
3.8.1.100 Ineligible Homeowners & RA Added information on ineligible homeowners and caravans.
3.8.1.108 Assessing RA Payable Expanded summary section and updated policy. Moved information on net rent rules to 3.8.1.109.
3.8.1.109 Net Rent Rules New topic.
3.8.1.110 Sharers Provisions for RA Clarified sharers provisions, added new examples and emphasised concept of legal right.
3.8.2.10 Qualification for PhA Updated terminology used, added information on single principal carer and partial capacity to work.
3.8.3.10 Qualification for PES Updated terminology used, policy references and to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.8.5 EEP - Qualification & Payability Updated policy reference.
3.8.5.10 Qualification for EEP - NSA, MAA, PA & WA Recipients Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.8.5.20 Qualification for EEP - CP, WidB, SpB & DSP Recipients Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
3.8.5.30 Qualification for EEP - PP Recipients New topic.
3.8.7.10 Qualification for TAL Added information on single principal carers and qualification for TAL during 8 week non payment period.
3.8.7.20 Payability of TAL Added information on payability of TAL during 8 week non payment period.
3.8.7.40 Notification & Recipient Obligations for TAL Updated terminology used.
3.8.10.120 CDEP CPS Income Test Updated act references and rates.
3.9.1.10 Qualification for HCC - Automatic Issue Clarified qualification for HCC while in a non payment period and for employment affected HCC holders and updated terminology used.
3.9.1.40 HCC Provisions for Children & Dependents Clarified LIC eligibility for young employed people living with their parents.
3.9.1.70 Low Income HCC - Assessment of Income Updated income limits, effective from 1 July 2006.
3.9.2.10 Qualification for PCC Added information on partial capacity to work and principal carer parents, updated terminology used.
3.9.2.30 PCC due to Employment Added information on qualification for PCC while on NSA/YA with a partial capacity to work or single principal carers and information on continuation of a PCC during a non payment period.
3.10.5.60 Transfers Between Payments Removed date of effect policy, updated terminology used.
3.10.5.65 PP Change Between Single & Partnered Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
4.2.2 Benefits Income Test & Limits Updated income test and taper levels.
4.2.4.20 Benefit PP (partnered) Income & Assets Tests & Limits Updated income test and taper levels.
4.2.8.40 Independent YA - Partner Income Test & Limits Updated income test and taper levels and terminology used.
4.9.1.30 Specific Provisions for Assessing Income Streams Included information relating to pre-assessment payments from ComSuper.
4.9.2.50 Joint Income Streams Reordered examples.
4.10.2 Historical Unemployment & Sickness Benefit Income Test Updated income thresholds and terminology used.
4.10.3 Historical Age & Invalid (Disability Support) Pension Income & Assets Limits Updated rates.
4.10.4.10 Historical Widow Class A & Sole Parent Benefit Means Test Limits Updated rate.
4.10.4.20 Historical Widow B Means Test Limits & Additional Payments Updated rate.
5.1.1.10 NSA - Current Rates Updated terminology used.
5.1.1.20 YA - Current Rates Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
5.1.4.14 Calculating a Rate of PP - Partnered Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
5.1.5.40 MOB - Current Rates Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
5.1.7.10 RA - Current Rates Added information regarding RA being paid as a lump sum when paid with FTB.
5.1.7.40 EEP - Current Rates Updated terminology used.
5.1.8.20 Benefit Rates Updated rates, updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
5.2.2.10 Rate of Pension July 1909 to Present Date Amended historical rate for 20/03/2001.
5.4.4 EEP Advance Payment Added information on when an EEP advance payment may be available to NSA/YA recipients.
5.4.5 MOB Advance Payment Added information on qualifying for higher rate MOB during and advance of standard rate MOB, and calculating the early acquittal for the advance period.
5.5.2 Samples of Allowance Rate Calculations - Single Person Added PA recipients as using these rate calculations.
5.5.2.10 Single Person Over 21 Years, No Dependents, Income over $250 per Fortnight Updated terminology used, income test and taper levels.
5.5.2.20 Single Person Over 21 Years, No Dependents, Income under $250 per Fortnight Updated terminology used, income test and taper levels.
5.5.2.30 Single Person Over 21 Years, No Dependents, Paying No Rent Updated terminology used, income test and taper levels.
5.5.3 Samples of Allowance Rate Calculations - Partnered Recipient Updated terminology used and policy references.
5.5.3.10 Partnered Allowance Recipient, Partner Also Receives an Allowance, Income Above Free Areas Updated terminology used, income test and taper levels.
5.5.3.20 Partnered Recipient, Partner Receiving PA, Income Below Free Areas (deleted - see topic) Deleted topic.
5.5.3.30 Partnered NSA Recipient, Partner's Income Results In Nil Rate, or Partner Not On Income Support Updated terminology used, income test and taper levels.
5.5.3.40 Partnered Recipient, Partner Receiving NSA (deleted - see 5.5.3.10) Deleted topic.
5.5.3.50 Partnered Allowance Recipient, Partner Receiving Pension Updated terminology used, income test and taper levels.
5.5.3.60 Partnered Allowance Recipient - Compensation Effect on Partner Updated terminology used, income test and taper levels.
5.5.4 Samples of PP Rate Calculations Updated terminology used.
5.5.4.10 Benefit PP (partnered), Partner Not a Pensioner Updated terminology used, income test and taper levels.
5.5.4.20 Benefit terminology (partnered), Partner Not a Pensioner, Recipient Qualifies for RA Updated terminology used, income test and taper levels.
5.5.4.40 Benefit terminology (partnered), Partner a Pensioner, Recipient Qualifies for PhA Updated terminology used, income test and taper levels.
6.2.1 Newstart & Youth Allowance Reviews (deleted - see 3.2.8)

Deleted section.

Updated policy of similar nature to the previous content can be found in 3.2.8.
6.2.5.03 DSP - Application of DSP Qualification Rules at Review New topic.
6.2.5.15 DSP - General Provisions for Service Updates Updated to reflect Welfare to Work initiative.
6.2.5.18 DSP - Manual Medical/Work Capacity Service Update Reviews Added information on review form not returned and non-return of review form due to psychiatric or intellectual impairment.
6.2.5.90 MOB Reviews Updated terminology used.
6.7.1.45 Ten per cent Recovery Fee on Debts from False or Non-declaration of Income from Personal Exertion New topic.
7.1.5.60 Portability Table Updated in line with Welfare to Work legislation effective 1 July 2006 - removed information re NSA portability for customers aged over 50.
8.1.1.60 Deemed Claims Updated terminology used.
8.1.2.40 Claim Determination - Payment Specific Provisions Updated terminology used.
8.1.3.10 Provision of Information Updated act references and terminology used.
8.2.1 Transfers Added information on transfers to NSA or YA (jobseeker).
8.2.2 Reclaiming a Payment Updated terminology used.
8.3.1 Start Days - General Provisions Clarifies start days if a person is in a non payment period.
8.3.3.50 Backdated Start Days - CA Updated policy.
8.6.1 Date of Effect of Determinations - Summary of Legislation Added act references for cancellation with subsequent deemed suspension of DSP instead of cancellation in some cases.
8.6.4.20 Automatic Cancellations & Variations Added act references for cancellation with subsequent deemed suspension of DSP instead of cancellation in some cases.
9.4.6 Duration of the AOS Period Added information about where an assuree dies.
10.9.5.10 Totalising to Qualify for an Australian Benefit - Agreement with Ireland Changed 12 months Australian residence to 12 months Australian Working Life Residence for people residing in Ireland, etc.

Guide to Social Security Law Updates - 5 June 2006 (v1.108)

Topic No Topic Title Details
1.1.B.70 Board & lodging (RA, SpB) Changed policy reference.
1.1.E.168 Exempt accommodation (RA) Added policy references.
1.1.M.60 Maximum rate of rent assistance (RA) Amended act reference.
1.1.R.160 Rent (RA) Added additional act reference.
1.1.R.170 Rent increased pension (RA) Amended act reference.
1.1.R.190 Rent threshold (RA) Amended act reference.
1.1.S.400 Sub-tenant in public housing (RA) Added policy reference.
1.1.T.47 Temporarily separated couple (RA, TAL) Changed policy reference.
2.2.5.10 Determining a Marriage-Like Relationship (De Facto Marriage) Clarified information where a person is providing care and support to a former partner.
2.2.5.30 Determining Separation Under One Roof Updated information in relation to using social workers to verify separation.
3.1.4.05 Payability During Periods in Gaol or Psychiatric Confinement Added carer allowance as not payable to a person in gaol or under psychiatric confinement.
3.1.4.10 Situations that Constitute being in Gaol or Psychiatric Confinement Added carer allowance as not payable to a person in gaol or under psychiatric confinement.
3.2.1.20 Payability of NSA Added extension of 'with child' rate to non-resident parents who have at least 14% shared care.
3.5.1.88 Eligibility for PPP Where There is a Polygamous Relationship Updated policy.
3.6.2.20 Manifest Grants & Rejections for DSP Amended reference to 'impairment rating > 20 points' to 'impairment rating of 20 points or more'.
3.6.7.30 Qualification for CA Added carer allowance is not payable to a person who is in gaol or under psychiatric confinement.
3.6.7.105 Payability of CA - Customer in Gaol or in Psychiatric Confinement New topic.
3.8.1.10 Qualification for RA Updated summary and added additional act and policy references.
3.8.1.20 Payability of RA Updated summary.
3.8.1.55 Date of Effect & Arrears of RA Updated summary and added additional act references.
3.8.1.60 Payments that may be Treated as Rent Updated summary and re-arranged information for clarification.
3.8.1.70 Board & Lodging for RA Updated summary and amended act references.
3.8.1.80 Government Rent & RA Updated names of State Housing Authorities.
3.8.1.90 Temporary Accommodation & RA Updated summary and added additional act references.
3.8.1.104 Special RA Rules for Young Single People Updated summary and act references.
3.8.1.106 Special RA Rules for Couples & Families with Children Updated summary and added policy reference.
3.8.1.140 Saving Provisions for RA Added additional act references.
3.8.1.150 Phasing Out RA Savings Provisions Clarified savings provisions. Added additional act references.
4.3.2.30 Other Income Exempt from Assessment - Legislated Clarified that irregular superannuation amounts consisting of the payment of arrears at the time of commencing a superannuation pension are not exempt under paragraph 8(11)(d).
4.8.2.10 Principles for Assessing Superannuation Investments Added information on valuation of assets in self managed superannuation funds and small APRA funds in the accumulation phase.
4.13.1.25 Treatment of Specific Compensatory Type Payments Changed references to Army Reserve to Australian Defence Force Reserve.
9.4.3.40 Minimum Income Requirements for Mandatory (Bonded) AoS Clarified policy where one of the joint assurers may have zero income and no TNA for a particular financial year.
9.4.3.50 Minimum Income Requirements for Discretionary (Unbonded) AoS Clarified policy where one of the joint assurers may have zero income and no TNA for a particular financial year.
9.4.6 Duration of the AoS Period Included information relating to the effect on an AoS when visa changes from temporary to permanent.

Guide to Social Security Law Updates - 1 May 2006 (v1.107)

Topic No Topic Title Details
3.7.2.80 SpB for Australian Citizen Children & Australian Permanent Resident Children in the Custody of a Non-permanent Resident Updated custody description for determining the rate of payment and to clarify how other income effects the rate of special benefit.
3.8.3.40 PES Concessional Study Load Students Updated Department of Veterans' Affairs payments that may be eligible for concessional study load.
3.9.2.10 Qualification for PCC Clarified that pensioner concession card recipients who have their card cancelled when they travel overseas, must re-establish eligibility for the card to be reissued.
4.3.2.31 Other Income Exempt from Assessment - Specifically Approved Added Direct Payment Pilot Project to list of approved personal support schemes.
4.3.2.35 Other Income Exempt from Assessment - s 8(11) Exempt Lump Sums Added Fisheries Adjustment Package to list of exempted lump sum payments.
4.9.1.20 General Provisions for Assessing Income Streams Clarified policy relating to defined benefit income streams and transferring an income stream to a reversionary beneficiary.
4.9.2.10 Characteristics of pre-20/09/2004 Asset-Test Exempt Income Streams Clarified policy for assessment of an income stream purchased prior to 20/09/2004 which is transferred to a reversionary beneficiary.
4.9.2.15 Characteristics of post-20/09/2004 Asset-Test Exempt Income Streams Updated to reflect changes to allowable guarantee period for lifetime income streams.
4.9.2.30 Income Test Assessment of Asset-Test Exempt Income Streams Updated policy in relation to income test assessment of market-linked income streams.
4.9.2.50 Joint Income Streams Updated to reflect changes to rules for maximum allowable term for joint income streams and the choice of guarantee period available to holders of joint income streams.
4.9.3.30 Income Test Assessment of Asset-Tested Income Streams Updated policy relating to income reporting requirements for allocated income streams.
4.9.3.40 Allocated Income Streams - Relevant Number where Reversionary Beneficiary Exists Clarified assessment of allocated income streams on reversion.
4.9.6.30 Percentage Payment Splits - Non-Defined Benefit Income Streams (Non-Allocated) Included update of Family Law provisions for income streams to clarify application of existing policy.
4.9.6.40 Percentage Payment Splits - Non-Defined Benefit Income Streams (Allocated Income Streams) Included update of Family Law provisions for income streams to clarify application of existing policy.
4.9.6.60 Payment Splits of Income Streams: Creation by Trustee of New Interest, Transfer/Rollover or Lump Sum Payment Included update of Family Law provisions for income streams to clarify application of existing policy.
4.9.6.70 Payment Splits of Income Streams: Base Amount Payment Splits Included update of Family Law provisions for income streams to clarify application of existing policy.
4.9.6.80 Base Amount Payment Splits - Non-Defined Benefit Income Streams (Non-Allocated) Included update of Family Law provisions for income streams to clarify application of existing policy.
4.9.6.90 Base Amount Payment Splits - Non-Defined Benefit Income Streams (Allocated Income Streams & Market-Linked Income Streams) Included update of Family Law provisions for income streams to clarify application of existing policy.
4.9.6.100 Base Amount Payment Splits - Defined Benefit Income Streams Included update of Family Law provisions for income streams to clarify application of existing policy.
4.13.3.10 Overview of Periodic Compensation Payments Added general provisions for income test concession for periodic payments of compensation.
4.13.3.20 Effect of Periodic Compensation on a Compensation Recipient Removed information on general provisions for income test concession for periodic payments of compensation. Information now in 4.13.3.10.
4.13.3.30 Effect of Periodic Compensation on the Partner of a Compensation Recipient Updated topic overview.
6.7.1.20 Debts Arising under the SSAct from 1/7/2001 Clarified information on section 1223 of the Social Security Act 1991.
9.2.7 Visa subclass 462 Work and Holiday New topic.
9.2.7 Visa subclass 471 Trade Skills Training New topic.
9.4.3.30 AoS - Minimum Income Requirements Added that a letter from the ATO can be used as evidence of taxable income.
9.4.3.80 AoS - Joint & Several AoSs Added material on where one joint assurer does not have a tax notice of assessment for a financial year.

Guide to Social Security Law Updates - 3 April 2006 (v1.106)

Topic No Topic Title Details
1.1.S.390 Substantially more care & attention (CA (child)) Added note on conflict of interest if medical practitioner is a close relative of the carer or care receiver.
1.1.T.170 Treating health professional (THP) (CA) Added note on conflict of interest if medical practitioner is a close relative of the carer or care receiver.
1.1.V.20 Validation of THP questionnaire (CA (child)) Added note on conflict of interest if medical practitioner is a close relative of the carer or carer receiver.
3.2.8.110 Approved Activity - Study Highlighted that full-time study or training can only be approved by an employment service provider and clarified that part-time study can still be undertaken as a Mutual Obligation, in addition to job search.
3.6.7.175 Bereavement Provisions for CA New topic.
3.6.7.190 Continuation, Variation or Termination of CA Moved bereavement information to new topic, 3.6.7.175.
3.6.8 Child Disability Assessment Tool (CDAT) Added note on conflict of interest if medical practitioner is a close relative of the carer or carer receiver.
3.6.8.90 Validation of the THP Questionnaire - CA (child) Added note on conflict of interest if medical practitioner is a close relative of the carer or carer receiver.
3.6.9 Adult Disability Assessment Tool (ADAT) Added note on conflict of interest if medical practitioner is a close relative of the carer or carer receiver.
3.8.1.80 Government Rent & RA Clarified definition of Government rent and added information on community housing.
6.2.5.100 CA - General Provisions & HCC Only CA (Child) - Medical Care & Attention Reviews Amended 'change of care' to 'change of carer'.
6.6 Member of a Couple Reviews Updated information relating to review process.
7.2.5.10 Granting a New Payment to an Overseas Customer Updated exceptions.
9.2.2 Visa subclass 100 Spouse Removed information on visa subclass 309 that wasn't relevant. Added information on NARWP.
9.2.2 Visa subclass 110 Interdependency Removed information on visa subclass 310 that wasn't relevant. Added information on NARWP.
9.2.11 Visa subclass 801 Spouse Removed information on visa subclass 820 that wasn't relevant. Added information on NARWP.
9.2.11 Visa subclass 814 Spouse Removed information on visa subclass 826 that wasn't relevant. Added information on NARWP.

Guide to Social Security Law Updates - 21 March 2006 (v1.105)

Topic No Topic Title Details
1.1.A.375 AWOTE, relevant AWOTE, AWOTE weeks Updated rates.
3.9.1.70 Low Income HCC - Assessment of Income Updated low income health care card income limits.
4.9.5.60 Pension Valuation Factors for Allocated Income Streams Listed the new pension valuation factors which took effect from 1 January 2006.
4.10.7.60 Historical Income Limits for Low Income HCC from 20/9/96 Updated rates.
4.13.1.10 What is Compensation Moved some material to 4.13.1.25.
4.13.1.25 Treatment of Specific Compensatory Type Payments New topic.
4.13.2.40 Compensation Part of Lump Sum - Judgement by Contested Hearing Clarified treatment of compensation judgements.
4.13.3.30 Effect of Periodic Compensation on the Partner of a Compensation Recipient Inserted policy references to rate calculation chapter of the Guide to Social Security Law.
4.13.4.20 Factors to Consider When Determining Special Circumstance Provisions Corrected act reference.
5.1.7.10 RA - Current Rates Updated rates.
5.1.8.10 Common Pension Rates Updated rates.
5.1.8.20 Common Benefit Rates Updated rates.
5.2.1.20 Single Unemployment & Sickness Benefit - November 1984 to Present Date Updated rate.
5.2.1.30 Married Unemployment & Sickness Benefit - November 1984 to Present Date Updated rate.
5.2.2.10 Rates of Pension - July 1909 to Present Date Updated rates.
5.2.2.20 Additional Payments - April 1943 to Present Date Updated rates.
5.2.3.10 Widow Class A, Supporting Parent's Benefit, Sole Parent Pension - Rates from July 1942 to Present Date Updated rate.
5.2.3.30 Widow Class B, C & D Pension - July 1942 to Present Date Updated rate.
5.2.4.40 RA (families with children) - December 1987 to Present Date Updated rates.
5.2.4.50 Parenting Payment & Associated Rates - July 1995 to Present Date Updated rates.
5.2.6.10 RA Rates - June 1990 to Present Date Updated rates.
5.5.1.80 Married Pensioner Couple - Compensation Effect on Partner Updated rates used.
6.4.1 Compensation Recovery in Specific Circumstances Clarified compensation recovery from deceased estates.
8.3.3.80 Backdated Start Days - FA (deleted - see topic) Deleted content. Topic redundant.

Guide to Social Security Law Updates - 6 March 2006 (v1.104)

Topic No Topic Title Details
1.1.A.15 Accommodation bond, accommodation bond balance Updated to reflect July 2005 changes to the treatment of accommodation bonds.
1.1.A.290 Asset Updated to reflect July 2005 changes to the treatment of accommodation bonds.
1.1.E.250 Extra care service (previously exempt nursing home) Updated to reflect July 2005 changes to the treatment of accommodation bonds.
1.1.N.60 Newly arrived resident Clarified that health care card is 'health care card (low income)'.
2.2.5.10 Determining a Marriage-Like Relationship (De Facto Marriage) Added more examples of care relationships. Reinforced that children are not an accurate indicator of a marriage-like relationship. Added note that schools, child-care centres, sport organisations, etc are not to be contacted as part of the investigation of a marriage-like relationship.
3.1.2.70 Exemptions from Waiting Periods Updated information on exemption from the newly arrived resident's waiting period.
3.5.1.20 Child-related Qualification for PP - Overview Clarified policy in relation to overseas absences.
3.6.1.10 Qualification for DSP Updated residence qualification criteria.
4.3.8.30 Income from Real Estate Updated to reflect July 2005 changes to the treatment of accommodation bonds.
4.3.9.40 Income from Scholarships Updated Commonwealth learning scholarships.
4.6.2.10 General Provisions for Exempt Assets Updated to reflect July 2005 changes to the treatment of accommodation bonds.
4.6.3.70 Exempting the Principal Home - Care Situations Updated to reflect July 2005 changes to the treatment of accommodation bonds.
6.1.2.40 Reviews - Sale of Home & Temporary Absence from Principal Home Updated to reflect July 2005 changes to the treatment of accommodation bonds.
10.19.3.20 Pensions Payable Under the Agreement with Belgium Redefined qualification criteria for payment of Australian disability support pension under the Agreement with Belgium.

Guide to Social Security Law Updates - 6 February 2006 (v1.103)

Topic No Topic Title Details
1.1.A.375 AWOTE, relevant AWOTE, AWOTE weeks Updated rates.
1.1.D.70 Dependent child Updated rates.
1.1.S.10 Safety net (HCC, PCC, CSHC) Updated information to reflect 2006 safety net changes.
3.7.4.30 Qualification for CrP - Extreme Circumstances (other) Updated definition of home for CrP purposes.
3.9.1.70 Low Income HCC - Assessment of Income Updated information when a claimant for a LIC is subject to an IMP.
4.2.8.10 Dependent YA - Parental Income Test & Limits Updated parental income threshold.
4.3.9.70 Income from Private Annuities & Overseas Income Streams Clarified treatment of blocked income in relation to assessment of overseas annuities.
4.4.3.20 Deemed Income from Unlisted Public Securities, Delisted & Suspended Shares Clarified table on suspension or delisting of company shares.
4.9.2.17 Criteria for post-20/09/2004 ATE Lifetime or Life Expectancy Income Streams to Retain 100 Per Cent Asset Test Exemption Clarified policy in number 3 under 'Additional sets of conditions'.
4.9.2.50 Joint Income Streams Updated example for life expectancy joint income streams purchased on or after 20/09/2004.
4.9.3.30 Income Test Assessment of Asset-Tested Income Streams Updated examples to annualise payments by number of days, not months.
4.9.5.60 Pension Valuation Factors for Allocated Income Streams Amended reference to schedule 1AA to schedule 1AAB.
4.10.1.40 Historical Student Income Dependency Limits Since 1975 Updated rate.
4.10.1.50 Historical Employment Amount (Permissible Child Earnings) - January 1990 to Present Date Updated rate.
4.12.7.50 Distributions of the Income of a Private Trust or Private Company to a Non-attributable Stakeholder Included additional act reference.
5.1.1.20 YA - Current Rates Updated rates.
5.1.2.30 Austudy - Current Rates Updated rates.
5.1.4.60 DOP - Current Rate Updated rate.
5.1.5.10 DSP - Current Rates Updated rates.
5.1.5.40 MOB - Current Rate Updated rate.
5.1.5.50 CA - Current Rate Updated rate.
5.2.1.20 Single Unemployment & Sickness Benefit - November 1984 to Present Date Updated rate.
5.2.1.50 Youth Related Payments - July 1986 to Present Date Updated rate.
5.2.4.20 Family Payment, FA Rates (Non-standard) - October 1973 to Present Date Updated rate.
5.2.5.10 MOB - April 1983 to Present Date Updated rate.
5.2.5.20 CA, CDA & HCA - December 1974 to Present Date, DNCB 1987 to 1999 Updated rate.
5.2.6.50 PHA Rates - 01/11/90 to Present Date Updated rate.

Guide to Social Security Law Updates - 3 January 2006 (v1.102)

Topic No Topic Title Details
1.1.L.40 Levels of tertiary courses (YA, Austudy, PES) Added information relating to registered training organisations under level C and D courses.
1.1.R.05 RapidConnect New topic.
3.1.3 Notification & Recipient Obligations Added information relating to RapidConnect. Updated terminology.
3.2.1 NSA - Qualification & Payability Added additional topic references.
3.2.1.10 Qualification for NSA Updated terminology.
3.2.1.20 Payability of NSA Added information relating to RapidConnect. Updated terminology.
3.2.1.30 Waiting Periods for NSA Added information relating to RapidConnect. Updated terminology.
3.2.1.35 Move to Area of Lower Employment Prospects for NSA Recipients Updated policy and terminology.
3.2.1.40 RapidConnect - Impact on NSA Payability New topic.
3.2.1.45 Exemption from RapidConnect Provisions New topic.
3.2.1.50 Supplementary Benefits & Employment Assistance for NSA Recipients Updated terminology.
3.2.1.60 NSA Provisional - Payment to DSP Claimants Updated terminology.
3.2.1.70 Notification & Recipient Obligations for NSA Updated terminology.
3.2.1.80 Variable Reporting for NSA Updated terminology.
3.2.1.90 Continuation, Variation or Termination of NSA Updated terminology.
3.2.3 YA - Qualification & Payability Added additional topic references.
3.2.3.10 Qualification for YA Updated policy and terminology.
3.2.3.20 Payability of YA Updated terminology.
3.2.3.30 Waiting, Preclusion & Exclusion Periods for YA Added information relating to RapidConnect, updated policy and added additional Act and policy references.
3.2.3.35 Move to Area of Lower Employment Prospects for YA Recipients Updated terminology.
3.2.3.40 Start Day for YA Updated terminology.
3.2.3.45 RapidConnect - Impact on YA Payability New topic.
3.2.3.50 Supplementary Benefits & Employment Assistance for YA Recipients Updated terminology.
3.2.3.60 Notification & Recipient Obligations for YA Updated terminology.
3.2.3.70 Continuation, Variation or Termination of YA Clarified policy in relation to maximum age and updated terminology.
3.2.5.80 YA - Self-supporting through Paid Employment Updated information and amounts in example 6.
3.2.10.60 YA Study Load - Full-time Secondary Students Amended the reference to the course end date for secondary students who do not intend to re-enrol, to include all states and territories of Australia.
3.5.8.10 Qualification for DOP Added information on residence requirements and portability provisions.
3.7.1.60 Short term Available Funds Test for SpB Clarified when to use the short term available funds test for SpB.
3.7.1.70 Long Term Available Funds Test for SpB Clarified when to use the long term available funds test for SpB, updated examples.
3.7.4.20 Qualification for CrP - Extreme Circumstances (domestic & family violence) Clarified 'left home and unreasonable to return to the home'.
4.3.2.30 Other Income Exempt from Assessment - Legislated Clarified treatment of 'blocked income'.
4.3.3.70 Income from General Employee Entitlements & Redundancy Scheme (GEERS) Updated qualification for GEERS.
4.9.2.15 Characteristics of post-20/09/2004 Asse-Test Exempt Income Streams Changed to reflect changes to income streams rules arising from the Government's response to the Treasury review of small superannuation funds.
4.9.2.17 Criteria for post-20/09/2004 ATE Lifetime or Life Expectancy Income Streams to Retain 100 Per Cent Asset Test Exemption Changed to reflect changes to income streams rules arising from the Government's response to the Treasury review of small superannuation funds.
4.9.2.30 Income Test Assessment of Asset-Test Exempt Income Streams Updated the examples to reflect the current life expectancy.
4.9.4.10 Background to Income Streams Paid from SMSFs or SAFs Updated general characteristics to reflect changes to income streams rules arising from the Government's response to the Treasury review of small superannuation funds.
4.9.4.20 General Provisions for Assessing Income Streams Paid from SMSFs or SAFs Updated example and added that from 1 January 2006 new asset test exempt income streams sourced from self managed superannuation funds and small APRA funds may only be market-linked income streams.
4.9.4.30 Documentation Required for Assessment of Lifetime or Life Expectancy ATE Income Streams Paid from SMSFs or SAFs Clarified in note that the requirements are only for lifetime or life expectancy ATE income streams paid from SMSFs or SAFs that commenced before 1 January 2006.
4.9.4.40 Actuarial Valuation Certificate for Lifetime or Life Expectancy ATE Income Streams Paid from SMSFs or SAFs Clarified that actuarial certificates for lifetime or life expectancy ATE income streams paid from SMSFs or SAFs are needed if the income stream commenced before 1 January 2006.
4.9.4.50 Deprivation Assessment for Lifetime or Life Expectancy ATE Income Streams Paid from SMSFs or SAFs Added that these deprivation provisions only apply to lifetime or life expectancy ATE income streams paid from SMSFs or SAFs that commenced before 1 January 2006.
4.9.5.60 Pension Valuation Factors for Allocated Income Streams Added the new pension valuation factors for income drawdown from allocated income stream products.
8.1.1.60 Deemed Claims Added information relating to RapidConnect. Updated terminology.
8.1.2.40 Claim Determination - Payment Specific Provisions Added information relating to RapidConnect. Updated terminology.
8.1.3.10 Provisions of Information Added information relating to requirements for Part 5 notices and RapidConnect. Updated terminology.
8.2 Reclaims & Transfers Updated terminology.
8.2.1 Transfers Added information relating to RapidConnect. Updated terminology.
8.2.2 Reclaiming a Payment Added information relating to RapidConnect. Updated terminology.
8.3.1 Start Days - General Provisions Added information relating to exclusion periods and RapidConnect. Updated policy and terminology.
10.1.5.50 Minimum Periods for Non-Australian Residents Clarified policy.
10.9.1.10 History of the Agreement with Ireland Added information on the revised Agreement with Ireland.
10.9.1.40 Double Coverage - Agreement with Ireland New topic.
10.9.2 Terms Used - Agreement with Ireland Amended terms used throughout the text of the Agreement with Ireland.
10.9.3.20 Benefits Payable Under the Agreement with Ireland Amended Australian and Irish benefits covered by the Agreement with Ireland.
10.9.4.20 Where People Can Lodge Claims Under the Agreement with Ireland Updated information on where claims can be lodged to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.5.10 Totalising to Qualify for an Australian Benefit - Agreement with Ireland Updated to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.5.20 Totalising to Qualify for an Irish Benefit Updated to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.6 Requirement to Claim a Foreign Benefit - Agreement with Ireland Updated requirement to claim a benefit from Ireland to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.7.20 Embargoes on Arrears of Irish Benefits Updated to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.7.30 Overpayments Resulting from the Grant of Irish Benefits Updated to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.8.10 Rate Calculation - Background - Agreement with Ireland Updated to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.8.20 Outside Australia Rate - Agreement with Ireland Updated to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.8.30 Australian Working Life Residence - Agreement with Ireland Updated to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.8.40 Proportional Income - Agreement with Ireland Updated to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.8.50 Inside Australia Rate - Agreement with Ireland Updated to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.8.60 Exempt Payments - Agreement with Ireland Updated to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.9.10 Portability & the Agreement with Ireland Updated to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.9.20 Australia to Ireland & Ireland to Australia Updated information on portability to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.9.30 People Who Travel to a Third Country - Agreement with Ireland Updated to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.10.10 Information Which Can be Exchanged - Agreement with Ireland Updated to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.10.20 Confidentiality - Agreement with Ireland Updated to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.11.20 Lodgement of Appeals - Agreement with Ireland Updated to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.12.10 Review of the Agreement with Ireland Updated to reflect revised agreement.
10.9.12.20 Termination of the Agreement with Ireland Updated to reflect revised agreement.