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News for Seniors

humanservices.gov.auIssue 89 | December 2012

Volunteering for life • Financial management program

Let’s get physical • Find and connect this festive season

Holiday hours and reporting • Dance away dementiaCHEERS TO THE ONLINE PUB Mike Jones, blogger

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News for Seniors—Issue 89

Other key websitesDepartment of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs: fahcsia.gov.au

Department of Veterans’ Affairs: dva.gov.au

Aged Care Australia: agedcareaustralia.gov.au

Key phone contacts Older Australians Line 132 300 Age Pension, deeming, income and assets tests, Financial Information Service, Pension Bonus Scheme, Pension Loans Scheme and Commonwealth Seniors Health Card.

International Services 131 673 Pensions paid outside Australia, claiming pensions from other countries, pensions paid under International Agreements.

Call 131 202 for information about Centrelink services and products in languages other than English.

Disabilities, Sickness and Carers Line 132 717

TTY* enquiries Freecall™ 1800 810 586

TTY* Customer Relations Freecall™ 1800 000 567 To provide compliments, suggestions or complaints

*TTY is only for people who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment. A TTY phone is required to use this service.

Customer Relations Unit Freecall™ 1800 050 004 Comment, complain or provide compliments about our customer service.

Department of Veterans’ Affairs 133 254 from regional Australia Freecall™ 1800 555 254

Aged care Freecall™ 1800 200 422

Note: calls from your home phone to our ‘13’ numbers from anywhere in Australia are charged at a fixed rate. That rate may vary from the price of a local call and may also vary between telephone service providers. Calls to ‘1800’ numbers from your home phone are free. Calls from public and mobile phones may be timed and charged at a higher rate.

The Department of Human Services now offers you one convenient location for Medicare, Centrelink and Child Support information, payments and services—humanservices.gov.au

You can also access your Online Services for Medicare, Centrelink and Child Support with one user ID and password, when and where it suits you.

Find out more about Online Services at humanservices.gov.au/onlineservices

Self Service options for youOnline ServicesYou can access Online Services for Medicare and Centrelink with one user ID and password. You can do things like:• claim a payment or concession card• receive online letters• update your details• lodge a Medicare claim online, and• view your Medicare claims history.

For tax purposes you can go online to print your Medicare benefit tax statement or Centrelink payment summary.

Self Service terminals So, what if you don’t have a computer at home? You can skip the queue and use a Self Service computer terminal at a Service Centre. You can do things like:• look for Department information, payments

and services• access your Online Services accounts for

Medicare and Centrelink• print your documents• view government, community and higher

education websites, and• search for a job.

Register or find out more about Online Services at humanservices.gov.au/onlineservices

DISCLAIMER The Australian Government has attempted to ensure the information in this publication is accurate. However, the Government does not warrant that the information is accurate or complete nor will it be liable for any loss suffered by any person because they rely in any way on it. You should contact your local Department of Human Services office or Department of Veterans’ Affairs state office for full details of any entitlements and services to which you may be eligible, or how any pending changes in legislation, programs or services may affect you.

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Receiving News for SeniorsIf you would like to:• receive a copy of News for Seniors• change your address• cancel your copy of News for Seniors, or• discuss distribution problems

call the Older Australians Line on 132 300. Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) customers who wish to make the above changes please call 133 254 or from regional Australia call Freecall™ 1800 555 254.

Message from the Minister ....................................4It’s holiday time ..........................................................5Tackling the maturity blues ....................................6

Feature storyVolunteering for life ...................................................7

Health and wealthSeniors gain from Work Bonus..............................8Financial Management Program ....................... 10Dance away dementia ........................................... 12Tell us about changes in your assets .............. 13Meet you at the pub ............................................... 14

Advice and updatesFamily tax benefit eligibility ................................ 15Medicare claim history—online ......................... 15Social security agreement between Australia and Hungary ........................................... 16Upcoming public holiday reporting and payment arrangements ......................................... 17Essential Medical Equipment Payment ........... 18

LifestyleFind and connect this Christmas ....................... 21Finding the light ...................................................... 22Listen up this festive season .............................. 25Let’s get physical—the 30 minutes that can change your life ........................................................ 26

Your paymentsForeign payments and your pension ................ 27Are you planning to travel outside Australia? .................................................... 27

Letters to the Editor......................................................................................... 28

Rates and ThresholdsPension and Rent Assistance Rates and Thresholds ............................................. 30Pension Bonus Scheme Maximum Rates ....... 30Pension Reform Transitional Arrangements Rates and Thresholds............... 31

Contents

Other versions available News for Seniors is published in 16 community languages.

If you would like to receive News for Seniors in a language other than English, call 131 202.

If you have a vision impairment and would prefer to receive an audio version of News for Seniors call 132 300.

To view English and non-English versions visit humanservices.gov.au

News for Seniors editorial enquiriesEmail: [email protected] Mail: Editor, News for Seniors, PO Box 7788, Canberra BC, ACT 2610News for Seniors incorporates information for service pensioners, war widows and widowers.

News for Seniors advertising enquiriesContact: CouchCreative Email: [email protected] Department of Human Services and the Commonwealth of Australia do not endorse and are not responsible for the views, products or services offered or provided by advertisers.

mailto:mailto:editornfs%40centrelink.gov.au?subject=


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Message from the Minister

What does it mean to be a senior in Australia? I could ask two million readers and get two million answers. Such is the diversity of Australian life today.

Seniors live in every town, in every region, in every state. They are wealthy, and poor, and everything in between. They will spend the holiday season in churches, synagogues, mosques and temples—or perhaps they’ll choose the beach.

Whoever they are, they have the same right to service. And it must be a service that works for them.

This is the great challenge for the Department of Human Services, and everyone on the frontline of our changing society. It is one thing to process two million different claims. It is something else entirely to help two million people.

When we forget that difference, it is the vulnerable who lose out—those with no money, or no education, or too many troubles to bear alone. These are the people who need Human Services to be more than just a post-box. They need the time and attention of the professional staff.

It is not easy to ask for help, or accept it when it’s offered.

But my message to all who hesitate is that service is your entitlement. It is not a privilege, to be requested—it is a right, to be respected.

We ought never be ashamed to draw on that support.

So I encourage all readers to look seriously at the services profiled in this edition of News for Seniors. I hope you will take the opportunity to visit the Human Services website, or speak to the staff at your nearest service centre. Whether it’s financial information, an emergency payment or simply a friendly face, the officers are there for you.

I wish you all the best for the holiday season and the year ahead.

Senator the Hon Kim Carr Minister for Human Services

Go to the Minister’s website mhs.gov.au for more information on the work of the

Department. Follow the Minister on Twitter: @SenKimCarr

DID YOU KNOW......that you can now request a call-back

when calling from a landline to any Centrelink number?

Go about your business while your call moves up in the queue! Call 136 240

or visit humanservices.gov.au/register to register.

Minister Kim Carr with community member Antanina Poulton at the official opening of the Baylink

community hub in Batemans Bay earlier this year.

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Raising the topic in a light-hearted way can, in fact, have positive benefits. Take for instance, a group of people in Canada who use comedy as a form of therapy for their mental health issues.

Eight years ago, mental health counsellor, author and stand-up comic David Granirer founded Stand Up for Mental Health, an organisation which teaches people stand-up comedy skills as a way of dealing with their mental illness.

Diagnosed with clinical depression himself in his 30s, David believes people can be happy and productive while “remaining as neurotic as ever”.

As actor and comedian Chris Rock says, “Comedy is the blues for people who can’t sing.”

In Australia, it’s estimated that nearly 800,000 adults suffer from depression each year (Australian Bureau of Statistics).

This debilitating illness has become a huge public health challenge in Australia. For most, the hardest part is recognising its presence and then taking the necessary steps to tackle it head on.

And, with a large percentage of us spending more than we can afford during the holiday season, the pressures may leave us feeling less able to manage our health—both mental and physical.

“Christmas is a costly time of year but it’s not just your wallet that could be hurt by excessive spending. Financial worries can have a devastating impact on mental health and can lead to serious problems such as depression and stress.”

Paul Farmer, CEO, Mind— UK mental health charity.

It’s holiday time

According to beyondblue, the Australian Government-funded national mental health organisation, older Australians are not necessarily more prone to depression than other age groups, but there are certain risk factors in later life that can increase people’s chances of developing depression. These include: • an increase in physical health problems or

conditions, such as heart disease, stroke and Alzheimer’s disease

• chronic pain • side-effects from medications• life events, for example, loss of relationships,

independence, work and income, mobility and flexibility, or significant change in living arrangements, such as a move from living independently to aged care, and

• social isolation.

The most important message from beyondblue is that depression is not a normal part of ageing. It is a health problem that can be treated.

Health and wealth

Some might think it a faux pas to talk about mental health issues at this time of the year, but others would say it’s highly relevant and needn’t put a dampener on the festive spirit.

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Tackling the maturity blues The beyond maturityblues program is an educational program run in partnership with the Council on the Ageing (COTA) to help raise awareness of depression and anxiety in older Australians.

More than 46,000 older people from all around Australia have attended a beyond maturityblues session since it was introduced in 2006.

The sessions focus on treatments, ways to identify and prevent depression and anxiety, and supporting others in need.

Education sessions are delivered by “peer” educators working with COTA. The peer educators are volunteers over the age of 50 who have been trained by COTA to talk with groups about depression and its effects. These groups include carers, veterans, rural communities and chronic disease groups.

COTA also provides sessions for culturally and linguistically diverse communities and has bilingual Italian, Greek, Vietnamese and Chinese peer educators who deliver sessions to non-English-speaking groups.

To book a session, contact COTA in your state or territory:

ACT 02 6282 3777

NSW 02 9286 3868

NT 08 8941 1004

QLD 07 3316 2999 or 1300 738 348

SA 08 8232 0422

TAS 03 6231 3265

VIC 03 9654 4443

WA 08 9321 2133

Stay aheadThere are several different treatments available for depression that are often used in combination. Counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy and antidepressant drugs, as well as various self-help treatments such as regular exercise, a balanced diet and sufficient rest, are all effective means of tackling depression (more advice on page 22).

Managing your finances is another simple way to make sure you don’t let circumstances get on top of you at any time of the year. There are helpful tips, publications and calculators on budgeting and planning at the moneysmart.gov.au website. Our Department of Human Services’ Financial Information Service can provide information on investments, retirement villages and aged care so that you can make the right decisions for yourself.

Our article Financial Management Program, on page 10–11, has information on other services, such as financial counsellors, that may be able to help you.

More informationFor more information about the beyondblue initiatives to tackle depression in older Australians call their info line on 1300 224 636.

If you need to talk to someone straight away about a mental health issue or emergency, call Lifeline on 131 114.

For more information about the Department’s Financial Information Service go to humanservices.gov.au/fis or call 132 300.

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Volunteering for life Retired school principal John Wiley put up his hand to be a volunteer co-ordinator for the Telecross service until someone else was found to fill the position. Four years later he is still in the role and doesn’t plan on going anywhere.

“I’ll probably keep going until I need the calls myself,” he laughs.

The Red Cross provides a free daily telephone call to people who are isolated and at risk of an accident or illness that may go unnoticed. The calls provide reassurance, help maintain independence and allow people to live with confidence in their own homes.

John, 72, co-ordinates a group of volunteers at a Telecross base in Adelaide’s suburbs. In addition to making calls every Monday morning, he makes sure that a volunteer is at the base every day of the year to call up to 45 clients who eagerly await their daily call.

“You receive a lot of gratitude from the people you call. They are often lonely and you realise that the Telecross call is the high point of their day.”

Around the country, trained and friendly volunteers call more than 5,000 clients every morning, 365 days a year. In the event of three calls going unanswered in one day, Red Cross starts an emergency activation procedure to make sure the client is OK. Between June 2010 and June 2011, the Red Cross service had 749 emergency activations where the client was found to be ill or injured, and 37 instances where the client had passed away.

John says he has a real concern for people, and volunteering brings him personal satisfaction.

“I’m starting their day off. Sometimes I’ll give them a comment about the weather, or the football, or something they have told me previously. We make a point of remembering their birthdays.”

As a Telecross volunteer, John offers a listening ear and appropriate words.

“Sometimes clients need someone to talk to about something personal they are going through, so I give them a bit of time. They say, ‘Thank you, you’ve really helped me with that’.”

In 2012 Telecross is celebrating 40 years of service. It started as a pilot program in South Australia and has grown to be offered Australia-wide. An evaluation of Telecross by Price Waterhouse Coopers in 2011 reported that people found the service provided them with peace of mind, greater confidence to live in their own home, support to maintain their independence and a better connection to the community.

“Volunteers are the backbone of Telecross,” Red Cross National Manager for Social Inclusion Ian Coverdale says.

Continued next page

Feature story

John Wiley, Telecross volunteer


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From previous page

“It’s their voices on the end of the line that provide reassurance to clients and connect them to the outside world.

“Something as simple as a daily phone call can give people who live alone confidence to remain independent. That daily human contact for some is the only conversation they’ll have all day.”

John is also heavily involved with the Kiwanis Service Club and says he enjoys volunteering in his retirement because it keeps him active and young. When asked what has kept him volunteering with Telecross, the answer comes quickly.

“The clients,” he says, “their gratitude, warmth, and humour. It’s the clients that keep me coming back.”

Telecross operates around Australia offering flexible volunteer arrangements, which can vary in each state and territory. To learn more about becoming a Red Cross volunteer or client, or to make a donation to support Red Cross programs like Telecross, contact 1800 811 700* or visit redcross.org.au

Each year, more than six million Australians contribute their time, energy and experience to volunteering activities. To see the range of volunteering opportunities visit govolunteer.com.au This free volunteer matching service is a joint initiative of Volunteering Australia and recruitment firm Seek, with support from the Australian Government.

*Calls to this number from public phones/mobile phones may be timed and charged at a higher rate.

Seniors gain from Work BonusIf you are thinking about taking up a part-time job over the holidays but are worried about it affecting your Age Pension then read on!

Since July 2011, the Work Bonus has helped about 135,000 pensioners who decided to keep working or take up some paid work. The Work Bonus allows people who receive Age Pension to keep more of their pension when they work.

Under the Work Bonus, the first $250 of employment income you earn each fortnight is disregarded and not counted as income for pension purposes. If your wages are less than $250 in a fortnight, the unused part of the concession builds up in your Work Bonus balance (up to a maximum of $6,500).

Your Work Bonus balance is then used to offset any future employment income you earn that exceeds $250 in a fortnight.

For more information on the Work Bonus visit humanservices.gov.au or call 132 300.

Note: the Work Bonus does not apply to income from self-employment or to people paid the transitional rate of pension. It should not be confused with the Pension Bonus Scheme, which is closed to new entrants unless you qualified for Age Pension before 20 September 2009.

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Financial Management Program—at your service these holidaysManaging your finances can be stressful at any time of the year. Throw in a few extras like Christmas presents and holiday travel and you could find yourself in strife.

The Australian Government’s Financial Management Program can help you manage your money, overcome financial adversity, plan ahead and enjoy the festive season.

Commonwealth Financial Counselling Commonwealth Financial Counselling services help people in personal financial difficulty to address their financial problems and make informed choices. These services are delivered by financial counsellors with specialist training and qualifications.

Complex financial issues such as debts, fines, mortgage arrears or bankruptcy can result from unemployment, sickness, credit card debt, mortgage stress or family breakdown. This free service is available to any Australians who believe they might be facing even the smallest financial hardship.

For a directory of organisations that provide free financial counselling go to fahcsia.gov.au/cfcp or use the Find a Financial Counsellor map by going to moneysmart.gov.au searching for “counsellor”, then clicking on the Financial Counselling MoneySmart link.

Access to financial counselling services is also available through the national telephone financial counselling helpline on 1800 007 007*.


MicrofinanceThe Australian Government funds a number of community organisations to provide no- and low-interest loans to people on low incomes across Australia. Loans can be used for a range of purposes, including purchasing essential household items such as a fridge, washing machine, bed, TV, clothes dryer and health aids.

No Interest Loan Scheme loans up to $1,200 and low-interest loans (StepUP) ranging from $800 to $3,000 are available for eligible recipients, through Good Shepherd Microfinance in partnership with the National Australia Bank. For more information go to goodshepherdmicrofinance.org.au

Home Energy Saver Scheme The Home Energy Saver Scheme began on 1 July 2012 to support low-income households experiencing difficulty meeting and paying for their energy needs.

The scheme is delivered through 19 not-for-profit organisations across Australia, with assistance from national co-ordinator, Kildonan Uniting Care.

Staff in these organisations are trained to provide tailor-made advice to individuals, either through home visits or at one of the organisations’ offices. A trained worker will talk about steps that can be taken around the home to reduce energy costs. These might include:• information about easy and affordable ways

to use less energy in the home• one-on-one budgeting assistance• information on whether you are getting the

right rebates and assistance


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• help to understand your energy bills and the energy market

• advice, advocacy and support• links to other services that may be able to

assist you, and• help to access no- or low-interest loans to

purchase energy-efficient appliances.

These services can be accessed through the national Home Energy Saver Scheme Helpline on 1800 007 001*.

To help low-income households make the switch to more energy-efficient appliances, no-interest loans and subsidies to reduce the cost of these appliances will be available under No Interest Loan Scheme.

These subsidies will be available in 2013 for household goods and appliances meeting the minimum energy-efficiency rating, including refrigerators and freezers, washing machines, air-conditioners and heaters, dishwashers, clothes dryers and hot water systems.

More information on the scheme can be found at fahcsia.gov.au and at cleanenergyfuture.gov.au


National Information Centre on Retirement Investments The National Information Centre on Retirement Investments is an Australian Government-funded, independent consumer agency providing free information on:• planning and saving for retirement• investment options, and • effective use of financial resources

in retirement.

You can access services at nicri.org.au or through the toll-free telephone enquiry service on 1800 020 110*. You can find out about Moneymap, a financial toolkit,

Health and wealth

including calculators to help you work out loan, investment and saving scenarios at moneymap.nicri.org.au


Financial Information Service The Financial Information Service, provided by the Department of Human Services, is an education and information service available to everyone in the community. It helps people to make informed decisions about investment and financial issues for their current and future financial needs. The service is independent, free and confidential and provides services through seminars, by phone and appointment.

For more information about the Financial Information Service go to humanservices.gov.au/fis or call 132 300.

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Dance away dementia

Feel like dancing? Well get up and boogie because there is research that shows getting your groove on may help reduce the incidence of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.

Research published in the New England Journal of Medicine rated dancing, along with playing a musical instrument and playing board games, as activities that can help reduce the risk of developing dementia.

Alzheimer’s Australia’s Dr Chris Hatherly says the research offers some hope.

“We know that regularly exercising the brain is an important way of reducing the risk of dementia,” he says.

“Brain exercise is basically anything that challenges your brain, and the best ways to do this are to learn new hobbies and to spend time with people in social situations.”

The cost of care for those with dementia in Australia is about $6 billion a year (Alzheimer’s Australia Consumer Dementia Research Network), not to mention the emotional impact it has on the families and friends of people living with the disease.

“We know that there are lots of lifestyle changes people can make to help reduce their risk of dementia,” Dr Hatherly says.

“The brain is just an organ of the body after all, so everything we know is good for our physical health is also going to be good for our brain health—things like not smoking, eating healthy foods and generally staying fit and healthy.

“Dancing is great in that it combines physical and mental activity in one: staying physically active, socialising and challenging the brain to learn new steps and moves.”

A group of women in Brisbane have already taken the information on board and have strapped their ballet shoes back on after years away from the dance floor.

It’s fun, it’s popular and you can do it anywhere. It can’t hurt, can it?

For more information about tackling dementia and Alzheimer’s disease go to fightdementia.org.au or call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500*.

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On 20 April 2012, the Government announced the Living Longer, Living Better aged care reform package which includes $268.4 million over five years to tackle dementia, from the early signs of dementia through to a very high level of aged care. Information on the reform package can be found at livinglongerlivingbetter.gov.au

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Health and wealth

Tell us about changes in your assetsIf you receive a payment from the Department of Human Services you need to tell us when your circumstances change. For example, you should tell us when your financial assets change. Financial assets include bank accounts, shares and other investments.

Recently, the point at which you need to tell us of a change in these assets increased from $1,000 to $2,000.

This means that, if you receive a pension from the Department and your financial assets change by $2,000 or more, you must tell us about this change.

If there have been any other changes in your circumstances, perhaps a change in your other assets, and you are not sure if it will affect your pension, tell us anyway and we will advise you.

For more information visit humanservices.gov.au or call 132 300.

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News for Seniors—Issue 89News for Seniors—Issue 89

Meet you at the pubThe social ritual of catching up with friends at your local pub can be traced back to ancient Roman times when taverns were introduced and it remains a popular choice for communal gatherings today.

Follow our editor Hank Jongen on Twitter @HankJongen or visit his Facebook page at facebook.com/officialhankjongen

You can also follow the Department on Twitter @HumanServicesAU or subscribe to our YouTube channel at youtube.com/user/HumanServicesGovAU

As we get older though, our regular get-togethers may become fewer and further between. We may find ourselves struggling to make the effort to keep in touch with old friends, let alone make new ones.

Unless of course your local is the Window Dresser’s Arms, Pig and Whistle—or the Pig’s Arms for short.

The Pig’s Arms is an online blogging community of about 40 people from all over Australia and overseas. Founder Mike Jones (cover image) says his online pub is a great way to stay in touch.

“We regard it as a great way to stay connected and support each other during the tough times that occur at our ages,” he says.

“We also share the joys of great events such as marriages, grandchildren being born – even recipes, music, nostalgia and poetry. Our country friends find it very helpful when they are isolated in the bush. It’s a bit of an irreverent hoot!”

Mike created the blogging community three years ago, using the metaphor of a local pub. Since then they’ve published well over 1,200 articles, received 300,000 views and accepted more than 40,000 comments.

“We write articles for fun, to help us keep sharp ... as a vehicle for communicating with others,” Mike says.

“By and large we do this with very little technical skill, but sometimes we do

enlist one or two of our members to help out in this regard—or perhaps their techno-savvy children!”

You can learn how to get started in the digital world at Broadband for Seniors kiosks located in places like libraries and community centres across Australia. For more information, or to find out where your nearest kiosk is located, call the Broadband for Seniors Helpline on 1300 795 897 or visit necseniors.com.au

Mike Jones, Pig’s Arms founder

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Advice and updates

Please send me a copy of the 2013 Holiday BrochureFull Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pcode: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Medicare claim history—online You can now keep track of all your business with Medicare online. Using Medicare Online Services you can obtain a statement of all claims you have made and rebates you have received in the past 12 months.

You can also see your current Medicare Safety Net balance to see how close you are to reaching the threshold.

The Medicare Safety Net gives families and individuals financial assistance for high costs for out-of-hospital medical services that attract a Medicare benefit.

If you see a doctor often or have tests regularly, your medical costs could be high. Once you reach a Medicare Safety Net threshold, visits to your doctor or having tests could cost you less for the rest of the calendar year.

Medicare claims history is available through Medicare Online Services at humanservices.gov.au/online

Family Tax Benefit eligibilityAre you getting Family Tax Benefit Part A for someone who is 18 years or older?

From 1 January 2013, you may no longer be able to get Family Tax Benefit Part A for them, but they may still be able to get other assistance, such as Youth Allowance, ABSTUDY, or a Health Care Card.

You can check their eligibility and read more about the changes to Family Tax Benefit Part A at humanservices.gov.au/ftb

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Unlimited overseas medical expenses cover (Plans A & B only) Covers domestic and overseas travel Competitive prices: low-premium policies from $49 for

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Seniors travel insurance products are issued and underwritten by ACE Insurance Limited ABN 23 001 642 020, AFSL No. 239687 (ACE), and promoted by Australian Seniors Insurance Agency Pty Ltd (ABN 48 097 746 391) Authorised Representative No. 270983 (Seniors). ACE and Seniors only provide general advice, and do not consider your objectives, financial situation or needs. To decide if the product is right for you, read the Seniors Travel Insurance Policy Wording and Product Disclosure Statement available by calling 13 76 76. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply.

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Social security agreement— Australia and Hungary On 1 October 2012, the social security agreement between Australia and Hungary commenced. If you have lived in Australia and Hungary, you may be able to receive an Australian Age Pension as well as one or both of the following Hungarian pensions:• Old-Age pension• Survivors’ pensions. The agreement allows you to combine your periods of residence in Australia and creditable periods of insurance in Hungary, to help you qualify for benefits from both countries.In October, we sent Hungarian claim forms to people whose records indicated they might be able to receive a benefit. If you received a claim form and have not yet returned it to the Australian Department of Human Services, please contact us to discuss your circumstances.

If you think you may be eligible to receive a Hungarian pension, but you have not received claim forms, please call us to arrange for the forms to be sent to you. We provide a free service to help you fill in forms, and can photocopy and certify original documents needed for your claim. We will verify your periods of residence in Australia and send the claim documents to Hungary.For more information, you can:• go to humanservices.gov.au and download

the Social Security Agreement between Australia and Hungary factsheet, available in English and Hungarian

• call the Department of Human Services International Services line on 131 673, or

• call 131 202 to speak to someone in your language.

17

Advice and updates

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Upcoming public holiday reporting and payment arrangementsDuring the Christmas, New Year and Australia Day public holiday period, Centrelink, Medicare and Child Support offices will be closed. Centrelink will not make any payments on these dates*.If you are due to be paid on a national public holiday, you will be paid before the public holiday.An early payment is not an extra payment, so you may have to prepare for a longer period between payment dates.If you are due to report on one of these days you will be given an earlier day to report to avoid a delay of your payment. You can check your new reporting date on your reporting statement or from your Online Services or Phone Self Service account. When you report, you must include estimates of earnings or other changes for your normal 14-day assessment period. While your reporting date is different, the assessment period remains the same. You can wait to lodge your report until after the end of your reporting period, if you want to be sure of your earnings or other changes, but if you do, you will not be paid until you report.

Centrelink, Medicare and Child Support servicesAll offices will be closed on:• Christmas Day Public Holiday—

Tuesday, 25 December 2012*• Boxing Day Public Holiday—

Wednesday, 26 December 2012*• Thursday, 27 December 2012*• New Year’s Day Public Holiday—

Tuesday, 1 January 2013*• Australia Day—Monday, 28 January 2013*

More information about public holiday closures and payment and service arrangements can be found at humanservices.gov.au or call 132 300.

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Free Delivery 7 Day Refund if not Fully SatisfiedAustralian Designed

newsforseniors.indd 1 1/11/12 6:05 PM

Essential Medical Equipment PaymentThe Household Assistance Package is continuing to help millions of Australians with ongoing assistance and tax cuts. There are payments under the Household Assistance Package to help families, seniors and individuals with their everyday expenses.

The Essential Medical Equipment Payment has been rolled out to Australians with higher than average energy costs because they rely on essential medical equipment, or medically required heating/cooling at home, to manage a disability or medical condition.

You may be eligible for this payment if you or someone you care for is: • covered by a Commonwealth Government

concession card or a Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold or White Card, and

• using specified essential medical equipment and/or has certain medical conditions that require the use of additional heating/cooling in your home, and

• responsible for or contributes to the energy costs associated with running the equipment or additional heating/cooling.

Medical equipment that is considered eligible for an Essential Medical Equipment Payment includes: • home dialysis machine • home ventilator

• home respirator • home parenteral or enteral feeding device • oxygen concentrator • heart pump • suction pump • infant apnoea monitor—when prescribed

by a medical practitioner following apnoeic episodes

• nebuliser—used daily • positive airways pressure device • phototherapy equipment • airbed vibrator • electric wheelchair • insulin pump.

To be eligible, the equipment must be powered by a form of energy where costs will increase under a carbon price, i.e. electricity, natural gas, liquid petroleum gas, diesel, heating oil, petrol or kerosene.

Equipment not listed will not receive an Essential Medical Equipment Payment.

The specified medical conditions which may attract a heating/cooling payment are:• spinal cord injury at or above the T7 level • stroke• brain injury• a neurodegenerative disorder

19

Advice and updates

WorkVentures has supplied over 40,000 computers to Centrelink cardholders since 2002.

Our $299 Seniors Pack includes:

• Quality corporate refurbished computer –MinimumspecificationCore2Duowith17-inch LCDmonitor,keyboardandmouse

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• Special offer –TakeTheTeacherHome-aneasytofollow computerandinternettrainingpack,freewhenyou mentionNewsForSeniors(save$40!).Thisofferis availablewithSeniorsPackordersplacedbefore 31/3/13.

Call us to ask about laptop availability.

Hop online at a low cost!

You can also go to workventures.com.au/seniors, or pick upabrochureatyourlocalCentrelinkoffice.

Call WorkVentures now on 1800 112 205

“My computer has made an enormous difference to my life. IcannowemailfamilyandfriendsinHolland,whichIreally love.AndasthesecretaryofanartgroupIcansendmeeting requests and the minutes of meetings via email.” – Maria from NSW.

• the muscular dystrophies• full thickness burns covering more than

20 per cent of the body surface area• rare disorders of sweating, including

congenital absence or mal-development of sweat glands, or

• chronic erythrodermas.

If you are eligible for the Essential Medical Equipment Payment, you will receive an annual payment of $140 that will be indexed annually in line with the Consumer Price Index.

You can apply for the payment online at humanservices.gov.au

Alternatively, paper claim forms are also available at your nearest Centrelink Service Centre.

For information on all of the payments available under the Household Assistance Package visit humanservices.gov.au/householdassistance or call 132 468.

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20


* Age-based premium providing $5,000 benefi t under a single plan for a person aged 50.This is general advice only. Please consider the PDS to ensure the product suits your needs. This information is provided by Australian Seniors Insurance Agency Pty Ltd (AR 270983), an authorised representative of Hollard Financial Services Pty Ltd, AFSL 343079. The Australian Seniors Funeral Plan is issued by Hannover Life Re of Australasia Ltd, ABN 37 062 395 484. Terms and conditions apply.

Call 1300 738 573 for a quote or visit seniors.com.auLines are open Monday to Friday 8:00am – 8:00pm (EST)

Applying is simple Apply over the phone, in minutes No medical exam and no blood tests required No intrusive health questions

Australian residents aged 50 – 79 are guaranteed acceptance

Choose the cover that suits you From $3,000 up to $15,000 Up to $45,000 paid in the event of accidental death Optional Accidental Serious Injury Immediate cover for accidental death, cover for death

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Complete peace of mind Thousands of Australians are choosing to protect their family with a Seniors Funeral Plan.

Request a FREE Info PackIf you are aged 50 to 79, simply complete and return this coupon to: Seniors Funeral Plan, Reply Paid 7186, Baulkham Hills NSW 2153. No stamp required.

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21

Find and connect this Christmas

Lifestyle

* Age-based premium providing $5,000 benefi t under a single plan for a person aged 50.This is general advice only. Please consider the PDS to ensure the product suits your needs. This information is provided by Australian Seniors Insurance Agency Pty Ltd (AR 270983), an authorised representative of Hollard Financial Services Pty Ltd, AFSL 343079. The Australian Seniors Funeral Plan is issued by Hannover Life Re of Australasia Ltd, ABN 37 062 395 484. Terms and conditions apply.

Call 1300 738 573 for a quote or visit seniors.com.auLines are open Monday to Friday 8:00am – 8:00pm (EST)

Applying is simple Apply over the phone, in minutes No medical exam and no blood tests required No intrusive health questions

Australian residents aged 50 – 79 are guaranteed acceptance

Choose the cover that suits you From $3,000 up to $15,000 Up to $45,000 paid in the event of accidental death Optional Accidental Serious Injury Immediate cover for accidental death, cover for death

by any cause after 12 months

Complete peace of mind Thousands of Australians are choosing to protect their family with a Seniors Funeral Plan.

Request a FREE Info PackIf you are aged 50 to 79, simply complete and return this coupon to: Seniors Funeral Plan, Reply Paid 7186, Baulkham Hills NSW 2153. No stamp required.

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As chosen by Australians from all walks of life

Title Mr Mrs Miss Ms Other

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State Postcode

Home phone ( )

Mobile phone

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We would like to keep you informed. However, if you would prefer that we do not keep in touch with you regarding our products and services, please tick here.

Seniors Funeral Plan

Plan ahead so you can enjoy your retirement Aff ordable funeral insurance to help protect your family from $5.68* per fortnight.

As seen on TV

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Forgotten Australians and Former Child Migrants are now able to access new Find and Connect support services in their state or territory, helping them along the path to restore their own identity and family relationships and gain access to mainstream services.

Forgotten Australians and Former Child Migrants are people who, as children, experienced life in institutions, children’s homes, orphanages, foster homes and other forms of out-of-home care in Australia from the 1920s to 1989.

These new services include support with records tracing and family restoration; specialist counselling services; information, advice and referral to mainstream services; and peer support and social programs.

The story of brothers David and Gary, who were reunited with two sisters after more than 50 years apart, illustrates how Find and Connect support services can assist Forgotten Australians and Former Child Migrants to trace their histories and, in some cases, reconnect and renew their relationships with family*.

Siblings who grew up in orphanages often grew apart as they lost the opportunity to build close family bonds. Sadly, this was the case for David and Gary, who were placed in different orphanages. Over the years, as their adult lives led them to separate parts of Australia, the brothers struggled to maintain contact. These new support services helped them trace and become reunited with their sisters Angela and Ellen, who were also placed in different orphanages.

These reconnections can help Forgotten Australians and Former Child Migrants reclaim their identities, build relationships with their families and come to terms with their past.

Find and Connect support services are available through the Find and Connect hotline 1800 16 11 09** and the Find and Connect web resource findandconnect.gov.au

*The names of the people in this story have been changed to protect their privacy.

**Calls to this number from mobiles may incur additional costs. Phones are open between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Christmas can be a particularly difficult time of year for many Forgotten Australians and Former Child Migrants who have not been able to establish connections with their family. The Government’s investment in new services to deliver coordinated Australia-wide family tracing and professional support is particularly important for them at this time.


22

Finding the lightStaying socially connected, volunteering and regular exercise in your later years can help protect and promote good mental health.

Patricia Coe, 87, from Melbourne is a great example of how to stay socially active and connected. She began an Arts degree in her 60s, completed her PhD at 70 and taught French literary analysis and linguistics at university until aged 75.

“Currently, I’m getting out of the house and going to three activities a week—a Feldenkrais exercise class, an advanced French conversation group and a watercolour painting lesson,” she says.

“I only started watercolour painting last year, but it’s a wonderful new thing in my life and I’m working towards improving my abstract painting skills.”

Previously, Patricia volunteered as a teacher at an immigration detention centre and later was a tutor working one on one to help people improve their English.

“I derived a lot of happiness from seeing something good happen to the refugees I’d volunteered to help.”

Patricia has experienced depression throughout her life but sought help, and also found that intellectual challenges and her focus on tertiary study helped her through some of her darker days.

“I had to find ways to handle it. I realised it was important to fill my brain, keep busy and have a sense of purpose about what I was doing,” she says.

beyondblue CEO Kate Carnell AO says depression and anxiety are common—affecting hundreds of thousands of Australians every year.

“It’s great to see older people like Patricia remaining involved with their communities,” she says.

Patricia Coe, staying socialy active and connected

23

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“Unfortunately, some people wrongly believe that when they become a senior, depression and anxiety go with the territory. It doesn’t have to.

“Lots of older people have health problems and sometimes they may attribute physical symptoms, like headaches or lethargy, to a physical condition when it could be depression or anxiety. If that’s the case, they shouldn’t feel embarrassed or ashamed to talk to their doctor, who can prescribe treatments that do work. The good news is, with the right treatment, most people recover, regardless of their age.”

Try to stay fit and connected to people in your communityMs Carnell says research shows that regular exercise is helpful in preventing and alleviating depression.

“You could contact your local council to find a walking group, or choose another activity that doesn’t cost anything but keeps you fit and in touch with other people.” (See page 26)

To read more about Patricia and other inspiring stories, order beyondblue’s free booklet OBE … Our stories.

beyondblue also has a booklet about depression and anxiety in older people, and a series of factsheets that discuss depression linked to chronic illnesses such as diabetes, coronary heart disease, arthritis and stroke.

To find out more:

• go to beyondblue.org.au and click on “Older People” on the home page

• call the beyondblue infoline 1300 224 636 to order FREE printed resources or order online beyondblue.org.au/resources

24


25

Listen up this festive season

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The festive season is a great time to catch up with family and friends, but many Australians will struggle with social events because of hearing loss.

In Australia, one in six people experiences hearing loss. Early warning signs of hearing loss include difficulty hearing conversations (especially when there is background noise or groups of people), turning the television or radio louder than others in the room prefer, and difficulty hearing on the telephone.

According to a recent survey by Australian Hearing, one in three people (36%) were not able to participate in social situations because of hearing loss.

“Many grandparents miss out on the family’s conversation during Christmas get-togethers,” principal audiologist at Australian Hearing Janette Thorburn says.

“Hearing loss is more common than people think. It’s a natural part of the ageing process, but because of its gradual onset many older people don’t realise they have a problem.”

However, with the right hearing solution, most people with a hearing loss will find their overall hearing improves. This holiday season is a good time for a hearing check-up.

The Department of Health and Ageing administers the Australian Government Hearing Services Program, which provides a range of hearing services to ensure people get the most out of life, and has helped more than 600,000, mostly older Australians.

If you or a family member is experiencing hearing loss, then a simple hearing check can make all the difference and, if eligible for the Hearing Services Program, you will have access to a range of quality hearing products and services.

A hearing aid can open up communication channels that may have been previously closed and greatly improve your lifestyle and your relationship with families and friends.

“Hearing aid technology is constantly evolving, just like mobile phones. They are now small, discreet and use sophisticated digital technology,” Janette says.

“Hearing aids offer a great opportunity for older people to stay connected to their loved ones.

“A 15-minute hearing check is all it takes to give you peace of mind. And if you are having hearing problems, there are many products and services available to help you.”

There are 1,500 service providers at more than 2,300 locations around Australia, providing services under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program. To find out if you are eligible or to find your nearest service provider, visit health.gov.au/hear or call Freecall™ 1800 500 725.


26


Let’s get physical—the 30 minutes that can change your life

Tips for success• Ifyoucan’tdo30minutesnow,startwith10minutesonceortwiceaweek.Aftertwoweeks,

make it 15 minutes twice a day and you will have reached your goal of 30 minutes a day.• Dosomestretchingexercisesafteryouractivitytohelpavoidmusclesorenessandinjury.• Wearlooseclothesandsupportiveshoes.Thiswillmakeyouractivitysaferand

more enjoyable.• Remembertodrinklotsofwaterbefore,duringandafteryouractivity.• Exercisewithafriend,neighbourorrelativetohelpyoustaycommitted.• Theoldsaying“nopain,nogain”isnottrue.Ifyoufeelanypain,slowdownorstop.

No matter your age, weight, health or physical abilities, doing some form of regular physical activity can lead to better health and well-being. All it takes is just 30 minutes on most, preferably all, days.

What are the benefits of getting physically active for the over-65s?It is good for your body. Not only does it help control weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, type 2 diabetes and bone and joint problems, it also reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke and some cancers. Exercise helps manage pain and increase joint movement which, in turn, helps prevent falls and injury.

It is good for the mind. Regular exercise will help reduce stress and anxiety, improve your concentration and improve your self-confidence.

It helps you look and feel better. You will gain more energy, tone your body, sleep and relax better, and meet new people. Not to mention, it’s fun!

What kind of activities should I do? Take every chance you can to be active, even if it’s only for a few minutes a day. You could try a few

exercises while waiting for the kettle to boil or watching TV. You can even include the mopping and vacuuming towards your 30 minutes a day. If it’s too hot, cold or raining, walk in an air-conditioned shopping centre with a friend.

REMEMBER: most importantly, you should always see your GP before you begin a new fitness regime.

Try to be active every day in as many ways as possible, doing a range of activities that incorporate fitness, strength, flexibility and balance. To help get you started, you can download Choose Health: Be Active – A physical activity guide for older Australians from the Department of Health and Ageing website health.gov.au or call 1800 200 422 for more information.

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Your payments

Foreign payments and your pensionIf you or your partner have lived or worked outside Australia you may be asked to apply for a pension from that country, or perhaps you are already receiving one.

You are required to tell us if you start to receive a foreign pension or other income from overseas or if that income changes, as it may affect your rate of Australian pension.

While we do exchange information with some foreign pension authorities, we can’t rely on them to provide all the details we need at the right time. That is why you still have to tell us of any changes which might affect your pension.

For example, Effie, an elderly customer, travels to Greece to visit family after recently being widowed. While in Greece, Effie applies for a Greek survivor’s payment and it is granted. Effie must inform the Australian Department of Human Services of the new foreign payment to ensure she is receiving her correct rate of Australian pension.

If you don’t tell us about changes that might affect your pension, you may be paid the wrong amount and you will have to pay money back.

If you’re unsure about whether to tell us about an event in your life, please contact us to find out. For more information go to humanservices.gov.au or call 132 300.

Are you planning to travel outside Australia? From 1 January 2013, the length of time many payments and concession cards can continue while you are temporarily outside Australia will be shortened from 13 to six weeks.

You may be affected by this if you receive Pension Supplement, Disability Support Pension (DSP), Carer Payment, Wife Pension or Widow B Pension, or you are a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holder, and depart Australia on or after 1 January 2013.

The following payments will continue to be payable indefinitely; however, the rate of payment will be reduced after six weeks temporary absence (due to the reduction in the Pension Supplement):• Age Pension• payments made under the terms of an

international social security agreement, and

• Disability Support Pension, Wife Pension and Widow B Pension (under certain limited conditions).

Your rate may change again if you remain outside Australia for more than 26 weeks.

For more information go to humanservices.gov.au or call 132 300.

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Letters to the EditorThis year has flown—I can’t believe this is the last edition for 2012.

I hope you enjoyed reading this edition, featuring a profile on retired school principal John Wiley. At 72, Mr Wiley volunteers for the

Red Cross Telecross program which reaches out to 5,000 Australians every morning. You also got to know beyondblue volunteer Patricia Coe, who sought her way out of depression by keeping her mind and body active.

While the festive season is a joyful one for many older Australians who get to spend time with family and friends, it can also be a sad and lonely time for

others. This is why we wanted to share the stories of volunteers and the services they provide, in case you are one of those who needs a listening ear and a kind word this Christmas or are interested in volunteering yourself.

We regularly receive interesting suggestions for articles from our readers; we have included a couple of those suggestions in this edition.

Have a safe and happy holiday season. Thanks for reading—until next edition.

Hank Jongen—Editor News for Seniors.

Mail: PO Box 7788 Canberra BC ACT 2610

Email: [email protected] for feedback on the magazine

To the Editor,

Could you please publish in our seniors magazine that the Fire Brigade will come to seniors’ homes and check or replace smoke alarms free of charge and then service once a year.

You phone your local fire brigade and they make an appointment to call. I don’t know if it’s only in NSW. Few seniors know of their great service so please publish an article about it.

Mrs M.

Dear Mrs M,

Thank you for your letter about the NSW Fire Brigades Smoke Alarm Battery Replacement for the Elderly program.

It appears that such services also exist in other states and territories.

In Tasmania, go to fire.tas.gov.au or call 1800 000 699 for information about Project Wake Up! In South Australia the Guide Dogs organisation run a Specialised Smoke Alarm Scheme for people who are deaf or hearing impaired. Go to guidedogs.org.au or call 08 8203 8390 for an application pack.WA seniors may be eligible for safety and security rebates. Claim forms are available from Australia Post outlets or by telephoning the Seniors Card Centre on 08 6551 8800 or 1800 671 233 (country callers) or you can go to seniorscard.wa.gov.auThe Queensland Fire Service runs a Safehome initiative. To book a free visit call 1300 369 003.Also, try your local council to find out what programs may be available in your community. Yours sincerely, Ed.


29

What you’re writing to us about Centrelink call centre delaysA number of new measures have been put in place to manage the increased traffic to our call centres, including extra staff and technology to speed up processing times. We have a call-back service available so that you can leave us a message and someone will call you back. Once you have registered with phone services you can take advantage of our call-back function. There is also SpeakFreely—a great service that uses Interactive Voice Response (IVR) technology to provide you with a self-service option so you don’t need to stay on the line waiting for a Customer Service Officer.

Accessing your Centrelink Statement on the road We are no longer mailing statements to you unless requested. For more information check the inside cover of this issue of News for Seniors for details about our Online Services or call 132 468.

The Digital Television SwitchoverWhile Centrelink is assisting with the Household Assistance Scheme to help eligible households to receive digital free-to-air signals, we are not responsible for the set top box supply or installation. Please phone the Digital Television Switchover Taskforce team on 1800 201 013 for more information.

Dear Sir,

I hold a DSS Aged Pensioner Card (Victoria) and, as someone who travels interstate relatively frequently, would like to know what cover I have, should I become ill or be injured while interstate and require ambulance transportation within that state.

I am aware that I am covered whilst in Victoria, but enquiries at various government departments as well as Ambulance Victoria have resulted in conflicting answers that have left me more perplexed than ever.

Perhaps you could clarify the situation for me and I am certain that there will be countless others who would like to know.

Yours truly Mr W

Dear Mr W,

The Ambulance Victoria website gives the following information:

Are Health Care cardholders or Pension Concession cardholders covered for ambulance transport?

All holders of Victorian Health Care cards and Pensioner Concession cards are entitled to free ambulance and air ambulance travel anywhere in Australia. This covers all emergency transport treatment and non-emergency transport on the recommendation of a doctor and approval by Ambulance Victoria. Dependants listed on these cards are also covered.

Concession cardholders in other states and territories can go to the following websites for more information: ACT: esa.act.gov.au/actasNSW: ambulance.nsw.gov.auNT: stjohnnt.org.auQLD: ambulance.qld.gov.auSA: saambulance.com.auTAS: dhhs.tas.gov.au/ambulanceVIC: ambulance.vic.gov.au/WA: ambulance.net.au

Yours sincerely, Ed.

30


Pension and Rent Assistance Rates and Thresholds

SINGLE COUPLE combined

COUPLE one eligible

partner

COUPLE separated due

to ill health

How much pension Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight each

Maximum basic rate 1 $712.00 $1,073.40 $536.70 $712.00

Maximum pension supplement 2, 4 $60.60 $91.40 $45.70 $60.60

TOTAL4 $772.60 $1,164.80 $582.40 $772.60

Rent Assistance 3 Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight each

Maximum rate Rent Assistance $121.00 $113.80 $113.80 $121.00

Maximum payment if rent above $268.73 $326.53 $326.53 $268.73

No payment if rent below $107.40 $174.80 $174.80 $107.40

Allowable Income 1a Per fortnight Combined Combined Combined

Full pension up to $152.00

up to $268.00

up to $268.00

up to $268.00

Part pension 4 less than $1,697.20

less than $2,597.60

less than $2,597.60

less than $3,358.40

Allowable Assets 5 Single Combined Combined Combined

Full pension—Home owner $192,500 $273,000 $273,000 $273,000

Full pension—Non-home owner $332,000 $412,500 $412,500 $412,500

Part pension—Home owner 4 less than $707,750

less than $1,050,000



Part pension—Non-home owner 4 less than $847,250




Deeming Rates and Thresholds Single Combined Combined Combined

Threshold $45,400 $75,600 $75,600 $75,600

Rate below threshold 3.0% 3.0% 3.0% 3.0%

Rate above threshold 4.5% 4.5% 4.5% 4.5%

Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) Single Combined Combined Combined

Income limit (per annum) 6 $50,000 $80,000 $80,000 $100,000

Seniors Supplement (per annum) 4, 7 $845.00 $1,274.00 $637.00 $845.00 each

Pension Bonus Scheme Maximum Rates Effective 20 September to 31 December 2012

SINGLE PARTNERED (each)

Registration in the Pension Bonus Scheme* is limited to those who met the age and residence requirements for Age Pension before 20 September 2009. Registered members with unregistered partners may wish to contact the Financial Information Service on 132 300 to discuss how this change might affect them.

*If you are receiving or have received Age Pension, you are not eligible for a Pension Bonus.

Maximum Bonus after Year 1 $1,791.70 $1,354.70





31

Pension Reform Transitional Arrangements Rates and Thresholds

SINGLE COUPLE combined

COUPLE one eligible

partner

COUPLE separated due

to ill health

How much pension Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight each

Maximum rate $675.20 $1,090.60 $545.30 $675.20

Allowable Income Per fortnight Combined Combined Combined

Full pension up to $152.00 up to $268.00 up to $268.00 up to $268.00

Part pension less than $1,840.00 less than $2,994.50 less than $2,994.50 less than $3,644.00

Allowable Assets Single Combined Combined Combined

Full pension—Home owner $192,500 $273,000 $273,000 $273,000

Full Pension—Non-home owner $332,000 $412,500 $412,500 $412,500

Part Pension—Home owner less than $642,750 less than $1,000,500 less than $1,000,500 less than $1,173,500

Part Pension—Non-home owner less than $782,250 less than $1,140,000 less than $1,140,000 less than $1,313,000

These figures are a guide only. Effective 20 September to 31 December 2012.1. Rate of payment is calculated under both the income and

assets tests. The test that results in the lower rate (or nil rate) is the one that is applied. There is no income or assets test for customers who are permanently blind, unless they wish to apply for Rent Assistance. Some assets are deemed to earn income and there are special rules for other types of income. a) Income over allowable amounts for full pension reduces

pension by 50 cents in the dollar for singles and 25 cents in the dollar each for couples; for those paid under the transitional arrangements, the pension reduces by 40 cents in the dollar for singles and 20 cents in the dollar each for couples. Contact the Department of Human Services on 132 300 for information on transitional arrangements.

b) Each fortnight, the Work Bonus disregards up to $250 of employment income earned by eligible pensioners over age pension age (unless paid Parenting Payment Single).

If employment income is less than $250, the unused Work Bonus accrues up to a maximum amount of $6500.

This bank then discounts future employment income that exceeds $250 per fortnight. If eligible for a transitional rate, we will compare the transitional rate (which has no Work Bonus) to the new rate (which has the Work Bonus). The transitional rate will continue until it no longer pays a higher rate.

2. Pension Supplement Basic Amount per fortnight ($21.10 single, $17.60 partnered, each) is paid for temporary absences after 13 weeks and all permanent departures overseas. (As of 1 January 2013 the maximum amount of time a pensioner can be continuously absent from Australia is reducing from 13 weeks to 6 weeks).

3. Rent Assistance is not payable to people paying rent to a government housing authority. Special rules apply to single sharers, people who pay board and lodging or live in a retirement village. There are additional rates for those who have dependent children. Rent Assistance is generally paid with Family Tax Benefit if there are dependent children or with the pension if there are no children. For temporarily separated rates, call 132 300.

4. These amounts only apply to pensioners in Australia or absent for a continuous period not exceeding 13 weeks. (As of 1 January 2013 the maximum amount of time a pensioner can be continuously absent from Australia is reducing from 13 weeks to 6 weeks).

5. Single and combined couple rates are reduced by $1.50 per fortnight for every $1000 of additional assets above the allowable assets limits for full pension. Certain assets, including a person’s home, are not included in the assets test.

6. Income test for the CSHC is annual adjusted taxable income.

7. To obtain the daily rate of Seniors Supplement, divide the annual amount by 364. The quarterly amount is then calculated by multiplying the daily rate by the number of days Seniors Supplement is payable in that quarter.

Note: absences from Australia may affect your payments. If you are planning on travelling outside Australia please contact the Department of Human Services for more information on 132 300.

For more information visit humanservices.gov.au

Pensioners receiving payments at 19 September 2009 who would have received a lesser payment because of the changes made to the pension system were instead paid a transitional rate based on the income test rules that applied before 20 September 2009.

It only applies until the pensioner would get an equal or higher pension rate from the new rules after which the new rules apply permanently. It is indexed to the CPI only.

Rates and Thresholds

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Travel Insurance - Seniors travel insurance products are issued and underwritten by ACE Insurance Limited ABN 23 001 642 020, AFSL No. 239687 (ACE), and promoted by Australian Seniors Insurance Agency Pty Ltd (ABN 48 097 746 391) Authorised Representative No. 270983 (Seniors). ACE and Seniors only provide general advice, and do not consider your objectives, financial situation or needs. To decide if the product is right for you, read the Seniors Travel Insurance Policy Wording and Product Disclosure Statement available by calling 13 76 76. Home & Contents and Motor Vehicle Insurance - Australian Seniors Insurance Agency Pty Ltd (ABN 48 097 746 391) Authorised Representative No. 270983 (Seniors), policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd (ABN 78 090 584 473) AFS Licence number 241436. To decide if it is right for you please carefully read the Product Disclosure Statement which is available by phoning 13 13 43. Hollard is an Australian Prudential Regulation Authority authorised insurer. Quotations may not be available in some limited areas. NFS/August2012

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RT010.1211

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