Child Disability Payment decision making guide
Components of CDP
The rates and components an individual is entitled to is dependent on whether they meet the criteria set out in the regulations for CDP for each component.
Case managers must consider entitlement to each component independently when making a determination. This is because an individual may be entitled to one, both or neither of the components. For more information, please see:
- Care component – rates and criteria chapter
- Care component – definitions chapter
- Lower rate mobility component chapter
- Higher rate mobility component chapter
Mira is 10 years old and has a visual disability. In her application and supporting information her visual disability is noted as ‘severe’.
The case manager concludes that Mira requires frequent attention throughout the day in relation to her bodily functions. For example, she requires attention when getting dressed and washing in the mornings and in the evenings, as well as during meal times. At times her need for support is greater as she cannot easily use the bathroom by herself if she is in unfamiliar surroundings. She also needs support communicating as reading and writing can be very difficult for her. Her needs and the amount of time the attention is required during the day vary. The case manager concludes that although Mira’s needs can vary day to day depending on her surroundings, looking at the whole of the relevant period Mira can fairly be described as requiring frequent attention throughout the day. The attention required is also substantially in excess of what is normally required for children her age.
The case manager also concludes that Mira is able to move around outdoors but requires guidance and supervision most of the time, and therefore that she can be considered to need continual supervision throughout the day.
The case manager determines that Mira is entitled to the middle rate of the care component. They also determine that Mira is entitled to the higher rate of the mobility component.
Briar is 8 and experiences nocturnal enuresis. Her parents often have to check on her during the night. They are working on behavioural therapy with her during the day to help reduce the chances of bed wetting. Briar only has trouble with her bladder while asleep and does not have any other disabilities or health conditions which require attention or supervision.
The case manager determines that Briar is entitled to the middle rate of the care component of CDP. Briar is not entitled to any rate of the mobility component. This is because she does not need guidance or supervision while outdoors beyond what is normal for someone her age without a disability.