Low marks for ACT, medium for WA but big tick for Victoria from National Seniors

A scheme exempting pensioners from stamp duty on median-priced housing was the one bright light in an ACT Budget seriously lacking initiatives for older Australians, according to National Seniors’ Canberra-based policy manager, Peter Brady.

“This stamp duty exemption will provide much needed financial relief to those older Canberrans looking to downsize their homes to more suitable accommodation.

“Also noteworthy are the free public bus services for seniors who no longer drive.

“But what are clearly lacking in the ACT budget are initiatives for seniors around mature age employment, oral health and aged care,” he said.

National Seniors welcomed the increase in health spending in the WA budget, especially the  $100 million over four years for mental health.

While the stamp duty concessions are an improvement, NSA feels they do not adequately address the needs of seniors downsizing their homes.

National Seniors saved its warmest support for the  Victorian Budget’s aged care and health initiatives.

National Seniors Victorian Policy Group chair, Jean Wilkinson, said the budget initiatives would help senior Victorians lead healthier, happier and more independent lives.

“We’re especially pleased with the $75.1 million aged care package, as it will help seniors in residential care as well as those living in their own homes.

“National Seniors has been lobbying for mental health programs for older people, and we welcome the initiative to increase mental health information and referral services for Victorians,” she said.

“The announcement of initiatives to prevent chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and poor oral health are particularly welcomed, given our key recommendation around chronic disease management.”