We’re all feeling the pressures from the rising cost of living, but the good news for the ‘over 60’s is that there is a raft of entitlements to claim, and a range of discounts and perks offered by the Government: both state and local, as well as some private organisations.

For Seniors: (over 60’s)

It is possible to access your superannuation after you turn 60, so if it is needed you should speak to your accountant or financial adviser about the best way to utilise the funds at your disposal.

Apply for a Seniors Card: this is the best way to access discounts from participating businesses for a range of goods and services, as well as transport concessions. It’s free to eligible persons. The criteria may change slightly from state to state, however in NSW you must be a permanent resident of the state, aged 60 or over, and working no more than 20 hours a week.  At the moment there are more than 1.4 million members of the NSW Seniors Card scheme, and over 3,500 businesses are participating. 

*  NOTE: The NSW regional seniors travel card (prepaid $250) stopped accepting new applications on 7 July. Premier Chris Minns said that he can’t guarantee it will return.

Locally, Kiama Council offers:

●      Reduced rates for concession card holders (including seniors card holders) at the Leisure Centre

●      Libraries provide a range of services for all ages. Some that are popular with senior citizens include the Home Library book delivery and pick-up service. There are also Makers and Creators workshops, the Friends of Kiama Library book talks, free film screenings and book club kits.

Many Kiama cafes and eateries also offer reduced-priced seniors meals, and some hairdressers have senior discounts, however it’s best to confirm with individual businesses first. 

Carmen Hamburger and Jennifer White, residents of the South Coast, have been able to take advantage of the benefits offered by their Seniors Cards.

For Aged Pensioners:

The aged pension is available for those over 66 years who meet income and assets test. To find out about your eligibility you can visit the Department of Human Services website.

Pensioner Concession Card: You are eligible for at any age if you receive payments including:

●      Age Pension,

●      Bereavement Allowance,

●      Carer Payment, or

●      a Disability Support Pension.

Further details on the concessions, including bulk billing for doctor appointments and higher Medicare benefits, can be found on the Department of Human Services website.

Animal Welfare League have discount vouchers for Centrelink Concession Card holders.

Commonwealth Seniors Health Card: This card provides discounts on Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) prescription medicines, as well as benefits like bulk billed doctor appointments and cheaper out-of-hospital medical expenses. To qualify for a Commonwealth Senior Health Card you must be of Age Pension age and meet the income test and residence requirements. 

With the difference in state concessions and varying eligibility criteria, it’s best to use this information as a starting point so you know how you can benefit.

Kiama Council also offers rebates on Pensioner rates. Aged care facility Blue Haven has a range of seniors-focused services, such as community transport (available as part of people’s Home Care Packages). 

Hopefully, this list of discounts and rebate options helps our Senior readership.