Self-funded retirees in New South Wales will be able to get $200 off their power bills from July.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian made the announcement on Monday and said about 130,000 people aged 65 or older who hold a seniors' health card will be able to apply for the annual rebate from July.
“We understand that energy costs are putting pressure on those with fixed incomes and this new policy will ensure that self-funded retirees receive the support they deserve,” Ms Berejilklian said, adding the measure was about helping take the pressure of households, “particularly our seniors”.
This rebate is in addition to current energy rebates, which includes the $285 Low Income Household Rebate and the $110 Gas Rebate to help pensioners and veterans with their electricity and gas bills.
“The Government will deliver this new rebate for eligible self-funded retirees across NSW in addition to the help we already provide to families, pensioners and other low income households,” added the Premier.
Pensioners and veterans already benefit from other government refunds including the $285 low income household rebate but this new program will support self-funded retirees for the first time.
Minister for Ageing Tanya Davies said the new program “will ensure seniors across NSW who have worked hard for their retirement will have much-needed hip-pocket relief now too”.
The Commonwealth Seniors Health Card applies to Australians aged 65 and over, with an income of up to $54,929 a year for singles and $87,884 a year for couples.
Read more: Pensioners, families may get budget bonus
Geraldine Cardozo
Features Editor at The Senior.
Features Editor at The Senior.
