Government urges pensioners and seniors to apply for cost-of-living rebates
By
Gian T
- Replies 44
In the face of rising expenses and the ever-tightening squeeze on household budgets, Western Australian pensioners and seniors have a beacon of relief to look towards.
The state government is actively encouraging those eligible to apply for a series of cost-of-living rebates to ease the financial burden on our most experienced citizens.
The Pensioners and Seniors Concessions Scheme offer concessions on local government rates, water service charges, emergency services levy, and underground electricity connection charges.
With rebates that can reach up to 50 per cent and, in some cases, as high as $750, this opportunity can make a significant difference in managing the cost of living.
Acting Finance Minister John Quigley has expressed the government's commitment to supporting Western Australians, urging eligible pensioners and seniors to take advantage of these concessions.
‘We want to see as many eligible pensioners and seniors across the State apply as we continue to support Western Australians,’ he said.
To qualify for these rebates, you need to hold one or more specific concession cards, including the Pensioner Concession Card, State Concession Card, Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (if you also have a WA Seniors Card), or a WA Seniors Card.
In addition to the rate rebate, the Cook Government’s Cost of Living Rebate for seniors provides additional financial relief, offering $104 for singles and $156 for couples.
The Regional Pensioner Travel Card has increased in value to $675 a year for residents of regional Western Australia.
To ensure you receive the maximum concession possible, it's crucial to register for the scheme as soon as you receive your eligible concession card.
Once registered, the Water Corporation will inform your local government authority, ensuring that your concession is applied to your rates and charges.
Seniors and Ageing Minister Don Punch has highlighted the significant impact these concessions can have on reducing cost-of-living pressures.
‘Seniors and pensioners with eligible concession cards such as the Seniors Card should apply as these concessions can make a big difference in easing cost-of-living pressures,’ he said.
I urge those who think they may be eligible to apply today.’
Have you or someone you know benefited from these rebates? Share your experiences in the comments below.
The state government is actively encouraging those eligible to apply for a series of cost-of-living rebates to ease the financial burden on our most experienced citizens.
The Pensioners and Seniors Concessions Scheme offer concessions on local government rates, water service charges, emergency services levy, and underground electricity connection charges.
With rebates that can reach up to 50 per cent and, in some cases, as high as $750, this opportunity can make a significant difference in managing the cost of living.
Acting Finance Minister John Quigley has expressed the government's commitment to supporting Western Australians, urging eligible pensioners and seniors to take advantage of these concessions.
‘We want to see as many eligible pensioners and seniors across the State apply as we continue to support Western Australians,’ he said.
To qualify for these rebates, you need to hold one or more specific concession cards, including the Pensioner Concession Card, State Concession Card, Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (if you also have a WA Seniors Card), or a WA Seniors Card.
In addition to the rate rebate, the Cook Government’s Cost of Living Rebate for seniors provides additional financial relief, offering $104 for singles and $156 for couples.
The Regional Pensioner Travel Card has increased in value to $675 a year for residents of regional Western Australia.
To ensure you receive the maximum concession possible, it's crucial to register for the scheme as soon as you receive your eligible concession card.
Once registered, the Water Corporation will inform your local government authority, ensuring that your concession is applied to your rates and charges.
Seniors and Ageing Minister Don Punch has highlighted the significant impact these concessions can have on reducing cost-of-living pressures.
‘Seniors and pensioners with eligible concession cards such as the Seniors Card should apply as these concessions can make a big difference in easing cost-of-living pressures,’ he said.
I urge those who think they may be eligible to apply today.’
Tip
For more detailed information and to start the application process, visit https://www.wa.gov.au/government/publications/apply-pensioners-or-seniors-rebate or phone the Water Corporation on 1300 659 951.
Key Takeaways
- WA pensioners and seniors can apply for a rebate under the Pensioners and Seniors Concessions Scheme.
- Eligible applicants can receive concessions on local government rates, water services, emergency services levy, and underground electricity connection charges.
- Rebates can be as high as $750; different caps apply depending on the circumstances.
- The WA government encouraged eligible pensioners and seniors to apply for these concessions to alleviate cost-of-living pressures, with additional benefits like the Regional Pensioner Travel Card also available.