Carer Adjustment Payment (CAP) for carers of young children 009-07020000

CAP is a payment for families following a catastrophic event involving a child under 7 years of age. CAP helps the family with the extra costs related to caring for the child during the period of significant adjustment.

Claims for CAP must be lodged within 2 years from the date of diagnosis of a severe illness, medical condition or major disability following the catastrophic event.

CAP is a one-off non-taxable payment to families in exceptional circumstances. The maximum amount to any family is $10,000 for each child in a catastrophic event. The amount payable depends on the family's circumstances.

The diagnosis of a specific illness or condition, including congenital conditions, does not exclude or guarantee a payment of CAP. The Process page contains more details on qualification for CAP.

Applications for payment are considered on a case by case basis and the decision is made by a Senior Officer in the Department of Social Services (DSS).

The standard review and appeal process does not apply to CAP decisions. No details are to be recorded in the Appeals (APL) system.

The Wagga Carers Smart Centre (WPH) manage CAP claims and reviews on behalf of the Department of Social Services (DSS). The Process page has details on WPH and DSS role in CAP claims.