One of the great advantages of living in such a great country is the different benefits provided to seniors by the government. While there will always be pros and cons on what type of, or how much assistance governments may provide their seniors, Australians should appreciate some of the great services they do receive.
One of the great advantages of living in such a great country is the different benefits provided to seniors by the government. While there will always be pros and cons on what type of, or how much assistance governments may provide their seniors, Australians should appreciate some of the great services they do receive.
Two areas that can cause a lot of unwanted stress to seniors on a pension include – living costs and health concerns. Fortunately the government knows this and tries to alleviate some of these pressures by providing a range of programs and services.
Below are some of the more popular government benefits for seniors
Seniors card
This is a great way to receive discounts on prescription meds under the PBS (shown below). In addition, the seniors card will allow you to obtain different location/regional based concessions. Holders of the card may also qualify for the “Seniors Supplement” which provides help with utility bills such as electricity, rates, phone and even vehicle registration.
Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) Safety Net Card:
This service is for families and individuals who need help in covering the costs of expensive prescription medications. Visit http://www.pbs.gov.au/pbs/home for detailed information on the program.
Early detection programs and free immunisations:
Take advantage of free immunisations for the flu and pneumococcal disease. In addition gain access to free screenings for cancers such as breast, prostate and bowel. Your local doctor should be able to provide you with specific details, you can also visit http://www.cancerscreening.gov.au/
Annual health assessment:
In addition to the early detection program mentioned above, you may also receive a free annual health assessment once you are above the age of 75. There are instances where you may have to pay the gap if your doctor does not bulk bill.
Comparison site for Health Insurance:
For those of you whom are not sure if you are on the best deal in terms of health insurance, there are independent comparison sites you can find online which may provide you with options. Alternatively, the government also has a comparison site which is very detailed and easy to use. Visit http://www.privatehealth.gov.au/
For additional services that may provide further savings, check with your local government’s website as they may have state/regional specific incentives for seniors and pensioners. They may also possess links to different non-profit or community based organisations who also provide free or cheap services for seniors.
Visit the “Helpful Resources” section of the Pensioner Loans homepage to find links to different government based websites. Discover a range of great services that may assist in reducing costs and help improve your overall living situation.
