The Albanese Labor Government has ensured continued support for people living with disability through the successful delivery of the Social Security (Tables for the Assessment of Work-related Impairment for Disability Support Pension) Determination 2023.
The Department of Social Services undertook a comprehensive review and consultation on the Disability Support Pension Impairment Tables (the Tables).
The Tables are used to assess a person’s functional impairment and its effect on their capacity to work, when the person applies for Disability Support Pension.
Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said the review and extensive consultation has ensured the new Tables are reflective of our contemporary understanding of disability and take account of advancements in medical technology, assessments and terminology that have occurred since the Tables were first introduced.
“If we want to make Australia a better place to live for everyone, we must work to improve the lives of all Australians living with disability,” Minister Rishworth said.
“We are confident that through improving consistency, addressing advancements in medical technology and terminology, and providing clearer guidance, the new Tables will ensure there is clarity around eligibility for the Disability Support Pension.”
The new Tables include changes which address recommendations raised in the Senate Inquiry into the Purpose, Intent and Adequacy of the Disability Support Pension, such as allowing evidence of a mental health condition diagnosis from all registered psychologists.
As part of the review, extensive consultation has been undertaken with a broad range of stakeholders including disability peak bodies, medical professionals, and individuals with lived experience.
“We are grateful to the many stakeholders who were involved in the consultations undertaken as part of the review and the successful establishment of the new Tables,” Minister Rishworth said.
“I appreciate the time that people have taken to meet with me and my department as part of the consultation process. Their expertise, lived experience and passion have resulted in the development of the new Determination that provides clearer guidance and improves the readability of the Tables to ensure they are truly fit for purpose.”
Minister Rishworth noted the Government’s ongoing commitment to continue working with people with disability, their families and the people who support them.
More information on the Disability Support Pension Impairment Tables can be found on the Department of Social Services Engage website.