Pensioner supporters seek election action
A new coalition of groups has launched the Fair Go for Pensioners campaign in Canberra to advocate for a 10% increase for the old age pension.
The Fair Go for Pensioners Coalition includes the Ethnic Communities’ Council Victoria, the Council on the Ageing (Victoria) and retired members divisions of the Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union and Maritime Union of Australia.
The Coalition is advocating Federal Parliamentarians to improve the standard of living for pensioners. The Coalition’s Statement of Claims includes:
1. That the Federal Government increases the pension rate from 25% of average male weekly earnings to 35% of average male weekly earnings.
2. That proper and improved culturally appropriate healthcare measures for pensioners are prioritised, including medical, dental, optical, hearing and pharmaceutical services. The Pharmaceutical Benefits for pensioners also needs to be increased.
3. That the level of funding for aged care services including culturally appropriate services, is significantly increased and extended to meet the growing demand in this area.
4. That our pensions are not restricted due to overseas travel to visit loved ones.
5. That a thorough review of the means test and GST impact for pensioners and concessions should be undertaken to ensure that pensioners are not losing out.
