NT Concessions scheme remains the best in the country

14 Nov 2017

Minister for Territory Families, the Hon Dale Wakefield MLA

Well – as they say, the cat is out of the bag with the revamped NT Concessions Scheme, the most generous scheme of its kind in Australia. The NT Government has increased the budget by 15% and it is the most money the scheme has seen from any Government.

The Gunner government has kept its election commitment with the review, plus an increase from the original $350 pa, which was also an election commitment for seniors disenfranchised by the CLP’s decision in 2014. We now see the amount increased to $500 which can be used for travel or utilities by all seniors, including self-funded retirees and pensioners. This amount is receivable each year and part of the NT Seniors Recognition Scheme for seniors who are over 65.

I believe that this is a very strategic move by the Gunner government, as this money will go into the local economy via local businesses. Businesses that we know are struggling in a slow economic climate.

COTA NT also supports the capping of the Power and Water concession in the revamped Scheme. I would also remind seniors or carers who have this concession and have higher consumption levels due to various machines, that there are also hardship provisions in place, so if you are in doubt about your entitlements, contact the Office of Territory Families.

The grandfathering provision remains, which means seniors who were already on the scheme in 2014, but who were not recipients of the Federal Aged or Carers Pension, will still be grandfathered. Plus, they will receive the $500 Seniors Recognition fund payment.

Whilst we congratulate the NT Government and Minister Wakefield, COTA NT would still like to see equality for all seniors with the NT Concession scheme and we will keep lobbying on behalf of Territory seniors.

For more information on the scheme visit ntconcessions.nt.gov.au

Sue Shearer, CEO COTA NT

Tags: Seniors Voice