Advice from Centrelink on Carers Allowance
From 1 July 2006, legislative changes have meant that new claims for Carer Allowance will be backdated for a maximum of 12 weeks from the date a carer advises Centrelink they intend to claim the payment. The backdating provisions for carers of adults will only be available if the care needs are due to the acute onset of a medical condition, such as a stroke. From the same time, eligibility for Carer Payment will be extended to carers of children with severe intellectual, psychiatric or behavioural disabilities who require constant care or supervision for their safety or the safety of others.
www.centrelink.gov.au
