28/4/2003

SUBMISSION TO THE PRODUCTIVITY COMMISSION.
INQUIRY OF DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION ACT.

The Aged Disabled are being discriminated by being disadvantaged with the loss of all benefits, on reaching retirement age. The loss of all aid benefits, is at the time of life. When this aid would be most beneficial.

On attaining retirement age they are moved from Disability Pension, to Age Pension where the benefits received are exactly the same benefits as an able bodied aged persons.

The imposition of age limitations restrictions, or work requirements to be eligible for benefits is discriminatory  to the disabled who are severely disabled. As their degree of disability may dictate that they are not able to work. Criteria of imposed conditions is disabled discrimination.

Last year I lobbied my Local Member for Representation see copies of the letters enclosed for verification.

Acting on advice I received from Minister, I applied for and received aid from the State of NSW Health Dept. Ie. PADP for Incontinence. A life time condition resulting from spinal injuries.

What I am asking is the Productivity Commission take a good long look at eligibility criteria imposed on the disabled. to receive these additional benefits. The Mobility Allowance was lost because of the work requirements. My work career ceased when my redundancy was effective at 65. The Mobility Allowance should be as, it’s name suggest an allowance paid to persons who have lost their mobility, 48 years a paraplegic have taken their toll on my arms and shoulders, with repetitive strain injury or over use syndrome from pushing wheelchair. I can no longer push any great distance. I now rely on the car to leave the house. As I no longer work I am not eligible for Mobility Allowance to help with car costs I think this is Disabled Discrimination.

Yours faithfully,

D. Hughes