On 16 September 2024, SSRV was thrilled to launch its new Disability Support Pension advice clinic established through a pro bono partnership with Hall & Wilcox.
The clinic increases SSRV’s capacity to provide vulnerable Victorians with specialist advice helping them understand their eligibility for Disability Support Pension (DSP).
Inquiries regarding DSP eligibility, application processes/evidence requirements and appeals are one of the most common issues about which people approach SSRV. Along with the DSP Help website*, SSRV sees the clinic as a further innovative approach and critical aspect of increasing access to justice for Victorians engaging with a complex social security system. Our aim is that Victorians living with disability are well-supported to navigate the DSP application process.
Nathan Kennedy, Hall & Wilcox Partner and Head of Pro Bono and Community, further highlights the importance of the DSP clinic “Everyone has a right to social security. It is particularly important to persons with disability who may be prevented from engaging in employment. Social security ensures their independence and access to food and shelter and a standard of living ensuring a life with dignity. A key focus area of Hall & Wilcox’s pro bono practice for the past 8 years has been to assist persons with disability. We are thrilled to be able to partner with SSRV to increase their capacity to assist persons with disability access the social security to which they are entitled.”
Through the clinic, a DSP applicant will receive:
- A one-hour advice appointment with an SSRV volunteer lawyer to talk through their individual circumstances.
- A follow up letter or email outlining our advice and next steps to take.
- Where appropriate, a letter to a treating medical practitioner outlining the medical evidence needed to support a DSP application.
To take advantage of an appointment through the clinic, contact our Legal Assistance Line on 03 9481 0355. The Legal Assistance Line operates Monday – Thursday between 10am and 4pm.
Workers looking to warm refer a client can contact our Worker Helpline on 03 9481 0655. Our Worker Helpline operates Monday – Friday from 9am to 5pm.
*Funded by the Victorian Legal Services Board Grants Program
