MEDICAL SUPPORT PERSON – Many of our young clients with a mild intellectual disability have a Supportive Attorney document in place for assistance with supported decision making. Recent changes in laws under the Medical Treatment Planning and Decisions Act 2016 (Vic), now means that should a medical supported decision be required, an ‘Appointment of Medical Support…

DEFINITIONS OF DISABILITY – The Social Security Act 1991 (Cth) provides the legislative foundation for many of the benefits and services provided by Centrelink and the Department of Human Services. The Social Security Act 1991 (Cth), defines “disability” generally as: A person aged 16 or more who: a) Has a physical, intellectual or psychiatric disability;…

FAMILY LOANS – When family members help each other out financially, little thought is usually given at the time as to whether the help is a gift or a loan. Even less consideration is given to documenting the arrangement. From the perspective of asset protection or ensuring that beneficiaries are all treated equally when you…