Independent MP calls on Govt to defer changes affecting eligibility for Seniors Health Card

Independent for Lyne, Robert Oakeshott, has called on the Federal Government to consider deferring proposed changes that would restrict access to the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card.

Under changes announced in the 2008 budget, from 1 July 2009 the tax-free component of retirement income streams will be counted in the income assessment for the Commonwealth Seniors Health card.

Mr Oakeshott said the timing of the change was unfortunate and should be reviewed in light of the rapidly changing economic circumstances.

“This change, announced in the much rosier 2008 budget, will see a lot of people lose access to the benefits this card provides,” he said.

“As is clear from Government policy of the past three months, now is not the time for tough medicine or tough policy.

“Now is the time for Government to give, and limiting access to the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card at this time will significantly hurt a large section of the aged community.”

Recipients of the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card are entitled to a range of benefits, including discounted prescription medicines, bulk-billed GP appointments (at the GP’s discretion – the Government offers financial incentives for GPs to bulk-bill card holders), and in some instances, additional health, household, transport, education and recreation concessions.

Card holders may also be entitled to the Seniors Concession Allowance, a non-taxable payment made every six months to help with regular bills, such as rates and energy.

Mr Oakeshott said the financial environment of mid-year 2008 was “a world away” from the current economic circumstances of the country and policy needed to reflect this.

“We are dealing with different times, and maintaining access to this health card would be an act of grace by the Government in what are broadly regarded as increasingly difficult times,“ he said.

“It would also further recognise that those living off savings are living with the triple whammy of low interest rates, a significant fall in share market investments, and a focus in the stimulus package on borrowing strategies rather than saving strategies.

“Relief is therefore quite rightly sought by sections of the community such as independent retirees, and the suspension of the tougher rules in regard accessing the Commonwealth Seniors Health card would be a welcome gesture from Government.”