DFISA was removed 1 January 2022. This is for historical reference only.
If DFISA rate was less than expected
Some people did not receive any amount of DFISA even though they were eligible for DFISA. Others may have received less than they thought they would receive as a result of the impact of adjusted DP on their income support payment. This may have occurred if the person's notional rate was assets tested or impacted by the notional rate of rent assistance calculation.
No decision about DFISA rate
There was no legislative decision made with regard to the rate of DFISA. The calculation of the rate of DFISA flowed directly from decisions made regarding the person's income support payment assessment. Variations and cessations in the rate of DFISA occurred only when a person's income support payment varied or ceased.
DFISA and appealing primary income support payment
As a person's rate of DFISA was based on decisions made in relation to their income support payment, a person could indirectly appeal their rate of DFISA by seeking a review of a decision made in relation to their rate of income support payment.
Further avenues
If the person remained dissatisfied with their rate of DFISA following the review of their income support payment assessment, the following options remained available:
- writing to the Ombudsman, or
- writing to the Minister.