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

The Administrative Appeals Tribunal reviewed a decision by the Secretary, Department of Social Services, to affirm a rejection of Mrs Holt's claim for a Disability Support Pension (DSP). Mrs Holt sought a review of the decision, asserting that her various medical conditions qualified her for the DSP.

The primary legal issue before the Tribunal was whether Mrs Holt's impairments attracted 20 or more impairment points under the relevant Impairment Tables, a prerequisite for DSP eligibility. This required the Tribunal to consider whether her diagnosed conditions were fully treated and stabilised, and whether the resulting impairments were likely to persist for more than two years.

The Tribunal considered the medical evidence provided by Mrs Holt's general practitioner, Dr Suleman, and other medical professionals. While some conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD, were found to be fully diagnosed, treated, and stabilised, the Tribunal ultimately concluded that Mrs Holt's impairments did not attract the requisite 20 points. The Tribunal also expressed doubt as to whether Mrs Holt could satisfy the requirement of a continuing inability to work.

Consequently, the Tribunal affirmed the decision under review, finding that Mrs Holt did not qualify for a DSP at the relevant time.