1.1.I.10 Impairment Tables (DSP)

Definition

For the purposes of DSP, the Impairment Tables are tables designed to assess impairment in relation to work. They consist of a set of tables that assign ratings in proportion to the severity or impact of the impairment on function as it relates to work performance.

The Impairment Tables have been reviewed to bring them into line with contemporary medical and rehabilitation practice. The revised Impairment Tables are contained in Social Security (Tables for the Assessment of Work-related Impairment for Disability Support Pension) Determination 2011. From 1 January 2012, these Tables will be used for the assessment of new DSP claims and reviews.

The Tables:

• are function based rather than diagnosis based,
• describe functional activities, abilities, symptoms and limitations, and
• are designed to assign ratings to determine the level of functional impact of impairment and not to assess conditions.

Act reference: Social Security (Tables for the Assessment of Work-related Impairment for Disability Support Pension) Determination 2011

SSAct pre-1 January 2012 Schedule 1B Tables for the assessment of work-related impairment for DSP

Policy reference: SS Guide 3.6.3 Guide to the Tables for the Assessment of Work-related Impairment for DSP

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Last reviewed: 9 February 2012