21-March-2005
Goldstein Media Releases, Community
More than 25,000 older Australians in the bayside suburbs of age pension or veteran pension age, receiving an income support payment, will this month benefit from a financial boost through the delivery of yet another Howard Government election commitment.
Announcing the imminent arrival of the Utilities Allowance into the bank accounts of older Australians, Andrew Robb, Federal Member for Goldstein said the new allowance was promised during the election campaign and was being delivered on time.
“Under the Utilities Allowance singles will receive $100 a year and $50 per year will go to each member of an eligible couple.”
The payments are made in two installments, automatically on a person’s income support payday, falling on or immediately after 21 March and 21 September each year.
“Some older Australians can experience difficulties in saving to pay regular household bills, such as gas and electricity, the Utilities Allowance will provide assistance in paying for such utilities and provide some extra assistance to seniors” Andrew Robb said.
In addition to the Utilities Allowance, Pension Concession cardholders already receive a range of concessions funded by the Howard Government including:
• Pharmaceuticals listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) at a cheaper rate;
• Free PBS prescriptions through the PBS Safety Net, after receiving 52 scripts in a calendar year;
• Reduced out-of-hospital medical expenses, through the Medicare Safety Net; and
• Higher Private Health Insurance Rebate to 35% for people aged 65-69 and to 40% for people aged over 70.
“The Howard Government will invest $610 million over four years towards the Utilities Allowance, building on its commitment to recognise the contribution made by older Australians.
Media Contact: Kathryn Hodges 0409 132 567