![Minister Don Punch](https://dpcmedia.azureedge.net/photos/Cook Labor Government/Don-Punch-@2.jpg)
Rebate to assist with cost-of-living pressures available to pensioners
- Concessions to assist pensioners and seniors with cost-of-living pressures
- Eligible applicants save on local government rates and charges
Western Australian pensioners and seniors are encouraged to apply for a rebate which provides concessions for local government rates and other services.
As part of the Pensioners and Seniors Concessions Scheme, eligible applicants can receive concessions on their local government rates charges, water service charges, emergency services levy and underground electricity connection charges. Rebates of up to 50 per cent can be made available and different caps apply, but rebates can be as high as $750.
- Applicants must have at least one of the following eligible concession cards:
- Pensioner Concession Card; or
- State Concession Card; or
- Commonwealth Seniors Health Card together with a WA Seniors Card; or
- WA Seniors Card.
The rates rebate is on top of the Cook Government's Cost of Living Rebate for seniors, which provides $104 for singles and $156 for couples. In addition, the value of the Regional Pensioner Travel Card recently increased to $675 a year, providing further relief for seniors living in regional Western Australia.
An applicant should register as soon as they receive their concession card to receive the greatest possible concession. To apply, visit https://www.watercorporation.com.au/Bill-and-account/Apply-for-a-concession or contact Water Corporation on 1300 659 951. Water Corporation will notify your local government authority of the registration so the concession can be applied to local government rates and charges.
More information is available by visiting https://www.wa.gov.au/government/publications/apply-pensioners-or-seniors-rebate or phoning Water Corporation on 1300 659 951.
Comments attributed to Acting Finance Minister John Quigley:
"The Cook Labor Government is committed to easing financial hardships for Western Australians and the Pensioners and Seniors Concessions Scheme is an example of the relief we are offering.
"We want to see as many eligible pensioners and seniors across the State apply as we continue to support Western Australians."
Comments attributed to Seniors and Ageing Minister Don Punch:
"Seniors and pensioners with eligible concession cards such as the Seniors Card should apply as these concessions can make a big difference in easing cost-of-living pressures.
"I urge those who think they may be eligible to apply today."