There are many types of concession and healthcare cards available to help older Australians access discounts offered by governments, local councils, utility companies and private businesses.
These discounts can amount to considerable savings over the year and can be just as valuable as income support payments.
But, it can be difficult to know which one you are eligible to receive and how to go about applying for them.
Here’s a quick guide on available cards for Australian Pensioners:
CARD | WHO IS ELIGIBLE? | BENEFITS | HOW TO APPLY |
Pensioner Concession Card | If you are eligible for an Age Pension payment then you are eligible for a Pensioner Concession Card | National Reduced-cost medicines Higher Medicare Safety Net threshold Access to bulk billed GP appointments National Diabetes Services Hearing ServicesStateProperty rates and water charges Electricity and other energy bills Fares on public transport Motor vehicle registration fees and drivers’ licences Admission or ticket prices to various entertainment or sporting venues | Automatically issued with when your application for the Age Pension is approved. |
Commonwealth Seniors Health Card | If you are of Age Pension age but do not qualify for the Age Pension, you might be eligible for a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card if your income is below the current thresholds. | Discounts on prescription medicines May also qualify for additional health, household, transport, education and recreation concessions that may be offered by state or territory and local governments and private providers. | You can make a seniors health card application via Centrelink or MyGov |
Seniors Card | Seniors Cards are issued by state and territory governments and are available to those aged 60 years and over, who no longer work full-time and are permanent residents. However, eligibility varies depending on the state or territory in which you reside. | The main benefit is that Seniors Card holders are entitled to travel concessions in their home state and territory, as well as interstate. Concessions vary depending on the state or territory in which you reside. As an example, NSW Seniors are entitled to:The Gold Opal CardTransport concessions Australia-wideDiscounts and deals at over 5,700 businesses state-wide – fromshops to tradies to travel to financial and professional servicesReciprocal rights in other states – just show your card and askSpecial offers, competitions and more – from our generous SeniorsCard business partners | Apply online, by phone or in person at a service centre To apply online for your local Seniors Card go to:NSW:Click here NSW Seniors CardVIC:Click here Vic Seniors CardACT: Click here ACT Seniors CardWA: Click here WA Seniors CardQLD:Click here QLD Seniors CardTAS:Click here TAS Seniors CardSA: Click here SA Seniors Card |
It can be tricky to understand what you’re entitled to – and that’s where it helps to speak to a specialist in this area. Reach out to us to find out more at 08 8231 4709
Article courtesy of retirementessentials