Disability Support Pension (DSP)
The DSP is an income support payment for people with a permanent physical, intellectual, or psychiatric condition that prevents them from working 15 or more hours per week. Key points:
- You must be aged 16 or older and under Age Pension age
- Your condition must be diagnosed, treated, and stabilised
- You must meet the impairment rating threshold (20 points or more)
- Income and asset tests apply
- You can work part-time and still receive a partial DSP
Many people with moderate to severe CP will qualify. The application process can be lengthy — detailed medical evidence is essential.
Carer Payments
- Carer Payment — an income support payment for people who cannot work because of the demands of their caring role. Subject to income and asset tests
- Carer Allowance — a supplementary payment for carers providing daily care. Not income or asset tested. Can be paid on top of other payments
- Child Disability Assistance Payment — an annual payment for each child who receives Carer Allowance
- Carer Supplement — a yearly payment to eligible carers
Concessions & Benefits
A range of concessions are available through federal, state, and local government:
- Health Care Card / Pensioner Concession Card — reduced costs for prescriptions, medical services, utilities, and public transport
- Mobility Parking Permit — access to accessible parking spaces
- Companion Card — free entry for a companion at participating venues and events
- Council rate reductions — many local councils offer reduced rates for pensioners
- Utility concessions — state-based rebates on electricity, gas, and water
- Public transport concessions — reduced fares in most states and territories
- Vehicle registration concessions — available in some states for people receiving DSP
Grants & Assistance Programs
- NDIS — the primary source of disability-related funding for equipment, support, and services
- Equipment grants — various organisations and charities offer one-off grants for assistive technology, equipment, and vehicle modifications
- Emergency relief — community organisations can provide emergency financial assistance
- Education support — ABSTUDY, Youth Allowance, and university scholarship programs for students with disability
- Tax concessions — disability-related expenses may be tax-deductible. A tax agent familiar with disability can help
Financial Planning
Long-term financial planning is important for people with CP and their families:
- Special Disability Trusts — allow family members to set aside funds for a person with disability without affecting their government payments (up to the threshold)
- Financial planning services — some organisations offer free or subsidised financial planning for people with disability
- Superannuation — people on DSP may be able to access super early in certain circumstances
- Wills and estate planning — ensuring assets are structured to protect the person with disability's government entitlements
Navigating financial support can be overwhelming. Centrelink, your NDIS LAC, or a disability financial counsellor can help you understand your entitlements.