Page 171 - Week 01 - Wednesday, 12 February 2020
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The scheme had originally been changed to raise the age to keep it in line with other schemes such as the New South Wales seniors card and the federal changes to the age pension. However, other states and jurisdictions have recently been lowering the age of eligibility for the scheme, and the change in the ACT will bring us back into line with New South Wales.
This is important because the scheme is reciprocal. It means that Canberrans who are 60 will be able to access subsidised government services such as public transport at a reduced rate, not only here but also across the border in New South Wales. It means that Canberrans from the age of 60 will be able to access hundreds of discounts at businesses across Canberra, helping to ease the cost of living here. And I thank businesses for their generosity in being part of the scheme.
I also want to take a moment to thank COTA ACT for all the hard work that they do in administering the scheme and promoting it to local businesses to get them to participate in the scheme. COTA ACT is an integral part of raising awareness amongst both businesses and older Canberrans.
MR PETTERSSON: Minister, what other financial assistance does the ACT government provide to older Canberrans?
MR RAMSAY: I thank Mr Pettersson for the supplementary question. The government provides an array of financial assistance to our senior Canberrans. The pensioner rates rebate provides a 50 per cent discount on your rates, up to $700 a year. The general rates deferral scheme allows certain people over 65 to defer all or part of their rates, allowing them to use the equity in their home to ensure that they have more money week to week.
The pensioner duty concession scheme provides a rebate on conveyancing duties for those looking to downsize. The utilities concession covers electricity, natural gas, water and sewerage, providing $700 to ease the costs of these essential utilities. We provide free off-peak travel on buses and light rail for those who are over 70, and discounted travel at all times for pensioners and seniors card holders.
Pensioners receive a 100 per cent discount on their car registration for their primary vehicle and seniors card holders receive a 10 per cent discount for regular cars and a 28 per cent discount for gas or electric cars. Pensioners also receive a 100 per cent discount on their drivers licence. This is in addition to the many other assistance services we provide for our seniors, like wheelie bin assistance and the flexible bus service.
This government is committed to aiding our seniors with the cost of living in a meaningful and targeted way to ensure that they are able to be active participants in the city’s life.
Mr Barr: I ask that all further questions be placed on the notice paper.
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