Dickson and Secretary, Department of Social Services (Social services second review)

This matter concerned an appeal by Mr Dickson against a decision by the Secretary of the Department of Social Services to reject his claim for a Disability Support Pension. The review was heard by K Millar SM.

The primary legal issues before the Court were whether Mr Dickson's medical conditions were fully diagnosed, treated, and stabilised during the relevant qualification period, and whether these conditions attracted an impairment rating of at least 20 points in accordance with the Impairment Tables.

The Court found that Mr Dickson's conditions did not meet the threshold of 20 impairment points as required by section 94(1)(b) of the relevant Act. Consequently, he did not satisfy the criteria for qualifying for a Disability Support Pension. The decision under review was therefore affirmed.