Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2023L00188:clause:1_30
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2023L00188
Segment Type: clause
Provision Reference: sch 1 cl 30
Character Range: 111678–114498

30      There is an extreme functional impact on activities involving hearing function or other functions of the ear.

            (1) The person:

                 (a) is unable to hear anything at all; and

                 (b) has limited or no ability to understand a recognised sign language, such as Auslan, lip reading, or other non-verbal communication methods, such as written notes; and

                 (c) is unable to sustain an upright posture due to extreme difficulty with balance.

Table 12 – Visual Function

Introduction to Table 12

       * Table 12 is to be to assess the functional impact of a diagnosed condition when performing activities involving visual function.

       * The diagnosis of the condition causing the impairment must be made by an appropriately qualified medical practitioner with corroborating evidence from an ophthalmologist, optometrist, neurosurgeon or neurologist.

       * There must be corroborating evidence of the person's impairment.

       * Self-report of symptoms must be supported by corroborating medical evidence.

       * Examples of corroborating evidence for the purposes of this Table include, but are not limited to, the following:

         * a report from the person's treating doctor;

         * a report from a medical specialist (such as ophthalmologist or ophthalmic surgeon) confirming diagnosis of conditions associated with vision impairment (such as diabetic retinopathy, brain tumours, glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa, macular degeneration, cataracts or congenital visual impairment);

         * results of vision assessments (such as assessments done by an optometrist).

       * Table 12 should be applied with the person using any visual aids the person usually uses, such as spectacles or contact lenses.

       * Where severe or extreme loss of visual function is evident or suspected, it is to be recommended that assessment by a qualified ophthalmologist occur to determine if the person meets the criteria for permanent blindness.

       * Assistance means assistance from another person, rather than any aids, equipment or assistive technology the person may use, unless specified otherwise.

       * When determining whether a descriptor applies that involves a person performing an activity, the descriptor applies if that person can do the activity when they would be expected to do so and not only once or rarely.

       * When assessing episodic or fluctuating impairments and conditions, a rating must be assigned which reflects the overall functional impact of those impairments, taking into account the severity, duration and frequency of the episodes or fluctuations as appropriate.

       * The examples used in descriptors are not an exhaustive list and are to be used only as a guide.

Points  Descriptors