This is the part of the Work and Development Order scheme that is least known and most useful: a mental health condition is an eligibility pathway, and mental health treatment is an approved activity. For some people that means the appointments they are already attending can go toward clearing fine debt.
Does treatment I am already having count?
Medical and mental health treatment is one of the six approved activities. Whether your existing treatment can be credited depends on your practitioner being, or becoming, an approved sponsor. Ask them directly, because this is commonly missed.
Do I have to disclose my diagnosis publicly?
No. The application goes through a sponsor and to Revenue NSW. It is not a public process, and you are not disclosing anything to an employer or to the public.
Does a mental health condition also make me eligible?
Yes, it is one of the six pathways in its own right. You do not need to be in acute financial hardship as well.
What if I am working and managing?
Being employed does not automatically rule you out when you qualify through the mental health pathway. Eligibility is assessed on your circumstances, and the sponsor can help you work out where you sit.
How much does it clear?
The same cap applies: up to $1,000 per month across all activities combined.
What if my practitioner is not a sponsor?
Organisations and health practitioners can apply to become approved sponsors. Alternatively another approved sponsor can host a different activity, such as voluntary work, while your treatment continues separately.
If voluntary work suits you better, House of Sadaqa is an approved WDO sponsor in Sydney: House of Sadaqa WDO page. Activity and eligibility detail comes from Revenue NSW and Legal Aid NSW. This is general information, not medical or legal advice.