Important changes to Impairment Tables for DSP recipients

From 1 January 2012 new claims for the Disability Support Pension (DSP) will be assessed using revised Impairment Tables DSP recipients undergoing a medical review will also be assessed using the new Tables from 1 January 2012.

The revised Tables will ensure people applying for DSP are assessed on the basis of what they can do rather than what they cannot do.  The new Tables will also assess people using their usual aids and equipment – for example people suffering from a hearing impairment will be tested with their hearing aid turned on.

The Tables reflect today’s medical and rehabilitation practice and have been developed in consultation with a number of medical and rehabilitation experts, disability service providers and disability advocates.

DSP is and will remain an essential part of the social security safety net for those who are unable to work.

To find out more visit the Review of the Tables for the Assessment of Work-related Impairment for Disability Support Pension Impairment Tables page on the Department of Families Housing Community Services and Indigenous Affairs website.