Article from Patricia Karvelas - The Australian - Disability support pension crackdown over new claims A CRACKDOWN on the disability support pension will see federal government-contracted doctors assess new claims from next year in a bid to achieve “consistency and equity” across the country. Social Services Minister Kevin Andrews says the new measure, which starts on January 1, is not aimed at those who may never be able to work, but rather people who can work with independent advice and the right support, “The government is committed to maintaining a safety net for those who cannot support themselves but many others remain on the pension longer than they need to,” Mr Andrews said. Mr Andrews said the measure follows other changes to the DSP, which uphold the integrity of the welfare system and ensure support goes to those “who need it.” “Another recent change to the DSP has included compulsory participation activities for people aged under 35 who can work for more than eight hours per week. “This measure has already helped thousands of DSP recipients to engage with job services providers with the view to getting back into the workforce.” Last financial year the Department of Human Services investigated 411 people for dishonestly claiming DSP, which resulted in $9.5 million in raised debts. Minister for Human Services Marise Payne said the government is committed to protecting the integrity of the welfare system. “This change will ensure support goes to those most in need,’’ Ms Payne said
Posted on: Fri, 12 Dec 2014 02:46:56 +0000
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