News for Seniors 091

Read about Ita Buttrose’s personal experience with macular degeneration

SeniorsNewsFOR

Issue 91 | JULY 2013

A publication offering information, guidance and inspiration to Australian senior citizens

• Federal Budget 2013–14• myGov—new online service• Tax time tips for seniors• Investment scams• Superannuation investments

News for seNiors | Issue 912

INTRODUCTION

In this issue

FeaTURes

Message from the Minister 4

Mature aged workers 5

Unreal deals 10

Macular degeneration 18

Your money 24

Letters to the Editor 26

Contacts 31

Budget bumperIt’s that time of year again!

The 2013–14 Federal Budget follows through on allocations from last year to address aged care reform in Australia.

Read more about what’s in this year’s budget for you on pages 8 and 9.

scammers and saversScammers aren’t just becoming more prolific, they’re becoming more sophisticated. This means it has become even harder to discern whether or not you’re looking at the ‘real deal’. Read about Malcolm’s near miss with an ‘unreal deal’ on page 11 and learn how to protect yourself against these scammers. DISCLAIMER The Australian

Government has attempted to ensure the information in this publication is accurate. However, the government does not warrant that the information is accurate or complete nor will it be liable for any loss suffered by any person because they rely in any way on it. You should contact your local Department of Human Services office or Department of Veterans’ Affairs state office for full details of any entitlements and services to which you may be eligible, or how any pending changes in legislation, programs or services may affect you.

News for Seniors advertising enquiries Contact: CouchCreative

Email: [email protected]

The Department of Human Services and the Commonwealth of Australia do not endorse and are not responsible for the views, products or services offered or provided by advertisers.

20

Cover image 2013 Australian of the Year, Ita Buttrose.

humanservices.gov.au 3

TECHNOLOGY

14

HEALTH

18

If it’s financial information you’re after—tax time tips (page 7), understanding your superannuation (page 22) or helpful tips for retirement (page 24)—this is the issue for you.

Retirement and beyondTo work or not to work... for some it’s an option, for others, a necessity.

Whatever the reason, it can be easier said than done for those at the more mature end of the spectrum. However, there is a range of resources available to you if you wish to remain in or re-enter the workforce.

Read The golden age of employment article on page 6 to find out more about your rights as an older person in the workforce.

september rates This issue of News for Seniors contains payment rates that were announced in March this year (see pages 28 and 29).

Please note that we will not be producing a September 2013 issue. However, you will be able to access the new payment rates on our website at humanservices.gov.au from 20 September.

The latest rates figures will be published in the next printed issue of News for Seniors.

LIFESTYLE

20

NEWS

7

CONCESSIONS

25

News for Seniors subscriptionIf you would like to receive a copy of News for Seniors call 132 300. You can also change your address by writing to: Seniors Hub, PO Box 7808, Canberra BC, ACT 2610.

DVA customers should call 133 254 or Freecall™ 1800 555 254.

If you would like to receive News for Seniors in a language other than English call 131 202. If you have a vision impairment and would prefer to receive an audio version call 132 300.

To view English and non-English versions go to humanservices.gov.au/newsforseniors


INTRODUCTION

Message from the Minister

Experts predict our population will hit 40 million by 2050, and we are currently ranked fifth in the world for life expectancy.

Australians are living longer and that is a good thing. We need to make sure that we are also living better.

The 2013–14 Federal Budget has been framed with this goal at its core. Our Budget is about building a stronger, smarter and fairer future for all Australians.

We continue our strong commitment to supporting older Australians with a number of initiatives in this year’s budget. It includes a program to support pensioners over age pension age who want to downsize their home, without it immediately affecting their pension.

We are continuing to support senior Australians by providing a further $9.9 million to help them participate in the digital economy, ensuring they are able to access the latest information and stay connected to family and

friends. This funding will provide a significant boost to the popular Broadband for Seniors kiosks, giving them access to the latest computing technology to prepare senior Australians for the National Broadband Network.

Initiatives like these build upon our government’s record of improving the lives of older Australians. We have delivered the biggest ever increase to the pension. We introduced the Work Bonus to make sure pensioners can keep more of their income while working and we have delivered another pension increase as part of the Household Assistance Package.

We’re also now making it easier for older Australians to connect with Centrelink through the Express Plus Seniors smart phone app. I’ve been travelling across the country meeting with older Australians and have been impressed at the uptake of people using their smart phones and tablets to do their Centrelink business.

My Department is also here to help you in your times of financial stress.

Our very own financial officers are on hand to offer you expert information through the government’s free and confidential Financial Information Service.

This edition of News for Seniors features a range of tips, ideas and services to help support you in making decisions for your financial future.

I trust you will find no shortage of useful information in this edition. Enjoy reading.

senator the Hon Jan McLucas Minister for Human Services

On 23 April this year Australia celebrated a major milestone—our population hit 23 million.

Minister Jan McLucas (L) and Nan Bosler, President of the Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association (ASCCA) at the Older Australians Working Group meeting in May.


Peter Spyker gets up at 4 am. He then walks 10 kilometres. He feeds the animals on his property on the Mornington Peninsula and then drives to the Oakleigh Centrelink Service Centre to begin a full work day.

And the fact that he’s 70 years old?

“That’s irrelevant!” Peter says. His colleagues at Oakleigh agree.

“Peter joined us as a Multicultural Service Officer in 1997,” says Melissa Young, Region Manager for Eastern Victorian. “Put simply, he’s a gem.”

“When Peter speaks to people, he deals from the heart. He is wise, fair, and makes everyone feel at home.”

“It’s not so much his age as his manner,” adds Chris Cahill, Program Manager. “All our officers look up to his example.”

That’s not to say that Peter’s experience doesn’t come in handy.

Born in the Netherlands, Peter came to Australia on a

troop ship with his family in 1955. He worked as a fitter and turner for 20 years before standing for the Victorian Parliament in 1979—an election he assured his wife he simply couldn’t win.

A few months later, he bought the suit for his swearing-in.

Peter went on to serve as a Minister for several portfolios over the next 10 years, meeting the Pope, Princess Diana and the Queen along the way. He was honoured in 1986 with the Order of Australia for his services to the community.

It comes as no surprise that the thought of a quiet retirement held no appeal.

“At my job interview with Centrelink they asked me how I would adjust to working for a boss. I told them that a Minister in Victoria answers to about four million bosses. One would be easy to handle!”

Peter is often asked to share his story with new arrivals, like the students at the nearby multicultural

services centre. He’s always proud to do so.

“I don’t make judgments about people. Whether they come by boat, plane or ship, it doesn’t matter. If you treat a person with respect, that respect will be returned.”

And as for retirement plans? Peter is ‘dead-set against them’. But he’ll think about it… in another 30 years.

Dealing from the heart

FeaTURe | MAtuRe Aged wORkeRs—PeteR sPykeR PROFIle

“When Peter speaks to people, he deals from the heart. He is wise, fair, and

makes everyone feel at home.”


FeaTURe | MAtuRe Aged wORkeRs—PROductIve AgeIng centRe

The golden age of employmentMore and more Australians are working on into their golden years. The reasons are complex, as Dr Tim Adair explains.

“The changing workforce is a mark of our changing society,” says Dr Adair. “We’re living longer and having children later. We’re also more likely to be supporting grown-up children or elderly parents at home. For purely financial reasons, it often makes sense to stay in work.

“It’s also becoming easier for many of us to make that choice. These days our jobs tend to be more desk-based and less physically demanding. The experience of an older person may well give them the edge over a younger candidate.”

Dr Adair is leading new Australian research into these trends, as the Director of the Productive Ageing Centre (PAC) in Melbourne. The mission of the Centre is to emphasise the positives of ageing, while flagging some of the barriers that older Australians face.

Age discrimination in the workforce remains a significant concern according to two-thirds of older workers in a recent PAC survey. Care-giving responsibilities, inflexible workplaces and

a lack of access to training can also exclude senior workers. This has smart employers thinking.

“Attitudes don’t change overnight, but there is definitely a solid business case for recruiting or retaining older workers,” says Dr Adair.

“Employers value their reliability, work ethic, skills and experience. Simple steps such as flexible hours and negotiating a sensible transition plan can benefit all sides.”

The PAC was jointly established by National

Seniors Australia, one of the world’s largest advocacy groups for seniors, and the Department of Health and Ageing. For more information visit productiveageing.com.au or nationalseniors.com.au

To find out more about your rights as an older person in the workforce, visit the Australian Human Rights Commission at humanrights.gov.au/our-work/age-discrimination or call 1300 656 419. You can also visit the Fairwork Ombudsman at fairwork.gov.au or call 131 394.

File

pho

togr

aph


Tax time tips for seniors

NeWs | tAx tIMe

The Department of Human Services has changed the way you will receive your annual payment summary showing Centrelink payment details. You will no longer receive one automatically in the mail as you don’t need a paper copy to lodge your income tax return if you use e-tax or lodge via an agent. Improved self service channels offer a quick and easy way to access your payment summary from home or from your local service centre.

Visit humanservices.gov.au/selfservice or call your usual payment line for more information.

New for Tax Time 2013✔ The tax-free threshold has increased from $6000

to $18 200. ✔ Private health insurance rebate and the Medicare

levy surcharge are now income tested. ✔ This year you may be asked to provide

information in your income tax return in relation to these income tests**.

For more information on these and other changes this tax time visit ato.gov.au

You will need to lodge a tax return if, during 2012–13:✔ You paid tax, or had tax withheld.✔ Your taxable income was greater than $18 200

and you were an Australian resident for taxation purposes for the full year.

✔ You were eligible for the seniors and pensioners tax offset and your rebate income exceeded the threshold amount.

The online tool ‘Do I need to lodge a tax return?’ can help you work out whether you need to lodge a tax return.

Visit ato.gov.au/doineedtolodge

The Australian Taxation Office provides a free service to low-income earners called Tax Help, with trained and accredited volunteers on hand to assist individuals with fairly straightforward tax affairs.

Garry McIntosh, a Tax Help program volunteer for eight years, says many seniors are confused about whether they should lodge an income tax return.

“Tax Help volunteers are on hand to assist seniors to find out if they need to lodge an income tax return and can help them lodge their return for free if they earn $50 000 or less a year,” says Garry.

“Also, many seniors who have shares are unaware they are entitled to a refund of the franking credits* from any dividends that are paid to them. Volunteers are able to assist seniors who do not need to lodge an income tax return but who are claiming franking credits to lodge an Application for refund of franking credits for individuals form.”

Volunteers operate from 1 July until 31 October in all capital cities and many regional areas across Australia from convenient locations in the community. For more information about Tax Help, visit ato.gov.au/taxhelp

* Franking credits are amounts of tax paid by the company that are allocated to your dividend. If you have had franking credits distributed to you, this will be recorded on your dividend statement.

** Income tests are used to determine your eligibility for a number of tax concessions.


NeWs | Budget BRIeFs

Organisations hosting a Broadband for seniors kiosk will be able to apply for a new computer with a touchscreen monitor, as well as a $2000 training grant. Kiosk host organisations will be able to apply from July 2013.

Who it affects: Senior Australians who want to learn how to use the internet or improve their internet skills will benefit from the new technology and enhanced training. The training will also address concerns raised by seniors about cyber security and cyber safety—how to identify fraud and scams online. It will also ensure that seniors will have more opportunities to benefit from the National Broadband Network and other services that are coming online.

More info: The Broadband for Seniors initiative has established about 2000 free internet kiosks located across Australia for seniors to surf the web and learn computer skills. Over 250 000 seniors have been assisted and many, who started as students, have gone on to become volunteer tutors.

For more information go to necseniors.net.au or call 1300 795 897.

Normal deeming rules will be extended to new superannuation account-based income streams assessed by Centrelink. Starts 1 January 2015.

Who it affects: Pensioners, allowees or Low Income Health Care Card holders granted from 1 January 2015 with account-based income streams. Such products held by pensioners before 1 January 2015 will be ‘grandfathered’ and the existing rules will apply to the products unless the product is changed on or after that date.

More info: This change will make the system fairer as people with similar levels of financial assets will be treated equally. Under the new rules, the deeming rates are applied to the combined value of a person’s financial assets, including account-based income streams. Pensioners with account-based income streams will only need to tell Centrelink their account balance every six months, rather than every time their withdrawal amount changes.

Overview for seniors


Showrooms in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Canberra and regional centres in all states. Call 1300 622 633 or visit www.scootersaus.com.au for more information.

If you value your independence and need safe, low cost transport for local trips, call us for a free home demonstration.

+ INDEPENDENCE+ ECONOMY+ CONVENIENCE+ SAFETY √

From $1390*

footpath freedom

*excludes models shown

TGA Quality Approved

The introduction of a three-year trial to support older australians who want to downsize their home. Starts 1 July 2014 and finishes on 30 June 2017.

Who it affects: About 30 000 pensioners of age pension age who downsize their home.

More info: To be eligible, pensioners of age pension age must downsize their home and invest a minimum of 80 per cent of the excess proceeds from the sale of their former home in a special account during this period. They will need to have lived in their former home for 25 years prior to the sale.

The funds invested in the special account (up to a capped amount of $200 000) and any returns will not be counted under the pension income and assets test for up to 10 years, providing no withdrawals of the balance or interest are made from the account.

No new registrations will be taken for the Pension Bonus scheme. Starts 1 March 2014.

Who it affects: Older Australians—not registered in the Pension Bonus Scheme who:

• turned age pension age before 20 September 2009

• continued to work since turning pension age, and

• deferred receiving the Age Pension.

More info: Applications from eligible older Australians to register in the Pension Bonus Scheme will be accepted up to 1 March 2014. Older Australians who are registered in the Pension Bonus Scheme at 1 March 2014 will be eligible to apply for a Pension Bonus payment under the existing rules. Existing members of the Pension Bonus Scheme are not affected by these changes.

Information about the Department of Human Services Budget can be found in the Budget statements on our website humanservices.gov.au


NeWs | InvestMent scAMs

Unreal dealsInvestment scams are often so professional, slick and believable that it’s hard to tell them apart from genuine investment opportunities.Investment scams can come to you via a phone call, letter or email. It may even be an offer from someone you trust.

There are three main types of investment scams.• The offer is totally fictitious and does

not exist.

• The offer exists but the money you give the scammer is not going towards that investment.

• The offer is falsely representative of a well-known investment company.

In all cases your money goes straight into the scammer’s bank account and not towards any real investment.

Scammers will try to tempt you by using phrases like ‘tax free benefits’, ‘inside information’ and ‘guaranteed returns’. Don’t buy into this. Do your own research.

always ask the person offering you an investment opportunity these questions to check their legitimacy:• What is your name and what company do

you represent?• Who owns your company?• Does your company have an Australian

Financial Services licence and what is the licence number?

• What is your address?

If they try to avoid answering these questions, it is probably a scam. Hang up the phone, do not respond to the email or stop dealing with the person.

If they answer these questions, you can check if their company name is on the Australian Securities and Investment Commission’s (ASIC) list of unlicensed overseas companies at moneysmart.gov.au or call 1300 300 630.

If you’re worried about the authenticity or nature of any call from the Department of Human Services or if you require any further information, go to humanservices.gov.au or call 132 300.

Please be assured that we respect your privacy and will only ask questions directly relevant to your payments and benefits.


Why compromise your lifestyle and freedom because of diffi culty getting up and down the stairs?

• Direct from the manufacturer• For straight or curved staircases• Indoor and outdoor lifts• Free home assessment• Fast installation• Safe & reliable

An Acorn Stairlift could be the key to retaining your independence, while still being able to enjoy the beauty and space of the home you love.

CALL US NOW FREE ON1800 284 204FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE

Best Price

Guaranteed

Malcolm’s true storyI received a call from a man claiming he was a broker from the ‘Kensington Group’. He offered me a great investment opportunity for a stock called Interglobal Waste Management, which was soon to be listed on the stock market.The broker spent an hour establishing his credentials and the expected rise in stock value. He then emailed me information on the company and directed me to some websites.

The broker continued to call me over the next few days until I finally agreed to buy $10 000 worth of stock. The caller promised the paperwork would be sent to me and said the deal had to be settled within 48 hours.

After a sleepless night worrying about what I had agreed to, I emailed the company to tell them I did not want the stock and was not going to transfer the money. The broker kept calling and pressured me further, even telling me that I was doing the wrong thing by my kids by not taking up the investment.

I was called again by various people in the Kensington Group over the next six weeks asking me why I had not invested. I knew after this amount of harassment that they were definitely scammers.

I was very glad I had not signed up to a deal with the Kensington Group as I found their name on ASIC’s list of companies you should not deal with. The company was an overseas business not licensed by ASIC and was operating illegally in Australia. I reported the company to ASIC.

See the Great South East● Brisbane● GoldCoast● SurfersParadise,Coolangatta● SunshineCoast● Noosa,Mooloolaba● NorthStradbrokeIsland● MtTamborine● andmuchmore!Includes● Accommodation● Allbreakfasts,lunches&dinners● Morning&afternoonteas● Fulldaytripseveryday

KOALA RESORT BRISBANE•FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED

5 Days 4 nightsPER PERSON

TWIN SHAREEX BRISBANE

$692

FREECALL 1800 156 252OR (07) 3245 6555

AB

N6

606

561

129

8

Seniors and over 40s

NOT ANOTHER PENNY TO PAY

Staying at

Phone Lyn now for your full colour brochure


NeWs | cHAnges

Help to get ready for digital TV By the end of 2013 analog TV signals will be switched off around Australia.

The Household Assistance Scheme has been created to help some Australians make the switch to digital TV. It is designed to provide practical assistance to older Australians, veterans and people with disability (or their carers).

Assistance may include:

• a high definition digital set-top box• installation of the box by a government

contracted installer• a demonstration of how it works • 12-month warranty, service and technical

support free of charge.

We will send you a letter if you may be eligible for this assistance.

Please read the letter carefully and if you think you are eligible, apply as soon as possible to receive assistance so that you don’t miss out.

To apply for the Household Assistance Scheme, call us on 1800 556 443.

If you are registered for Centrelink Online Services you can also apply online at humanservices.gov.au/online

For more information about getting ready for digital TV go to digitalready.gov.au or call 1800 201 013.

If you’re not eligible for the Household Assistance Scheme, you can convert your current TV to digital by either using a set-top box or a digital recording device or you can buy a TV with a built-in digital tuner.

The original and the best

PHONE 7 DAYS ON FREECALL 1800 111 811 www.mrspeggs.com.au

The original and the best

DISCOUNT

FOR SENIORS

It holds a full wash load, is lightweight (3kg), and being portable, can be placed near the house, or inside where household heating can be used.

Having lower levels, the Handy Line is easy to reach and helps with balance which can prevent falls. It’s fully assembled and folds � at.

(+P&H)

Large

$199Small $189

Queen sheet pictured

Small (8 lines) L 145 W 60 H130cm

Mobility problems? Arthritis? You need a Mrs Pegg’s Handy Line!

Large (10 lines) L 171 W 75 H143cm

Standard

Trusts and companies annual reviewThe way we conduct reviews for trusts and companies has recently changed.

Reviews of trusts and companies are no longer always carried out annually. These reviews will now occur if there is a change in your circumstances, if we think you are at risk of being paid incorrectly or if you request a review.

If you are selected for a review, we will contact you. You must tell us if there are any changes in your circumstances relating to your trust and/or company.

For more information about trusts and companies go to humanservices.gov.au or call 132 300.


Australian Seniors Travel Insurance provides you with the cover and protection you require including*:Unlimited overseas medical expenses cover

(Worldwide plans only)Domestic and International cover, choose

from one trip or annual policiesSelected pre-existing medical conditions

cover for 75 years and under

It pays to be prepared, should the worst occur and you suffer an accidental injury. The Seniors Accident Cash Plan can help to maintain your Independence, by providing financial support when you might need it most.No medical tests or questions to apply – acceptance is guaranteed*. And best of all – your premiums are not linked with your age.

An everyday accident can affect your lifestyle!

Save on your travel insurance

Get a FREE Travel Insurance Quote today at: www.seniors.com.au/news or call

13 76 76

Get a FREE quote today by calling 1800 764 292

Extra cash with the Seniors Accident Cash Plan

Easy to apply. Get cover in minutes! Visit www.seniors.com.au/accident today.

Apply by 30th June 2013 and get your first month’s premium FREE.

FREE Travel Neck WalletWhen you purchase online^

News for Seniors readers save 10% when you use this link: www.seniors.com.au/news

COVER UP TO THE AGE OF 89

YEARS!10%

OFF

Not Ready To Purchase Yet? Keep this page and add it to your holiday planning folder.

General Advice Warning: ACE Insurance Limited ABN 23 001 642 020, AFSL No. 23 9687 (ACE) is the insurer and underwriter of this product (Seniors Accident Cash Plan) while Australian Seniors Insurance Agency Pty Ltd, AR No. 270983 (Seniors) is the promoter. Any advice provided by ACE and Seniors is general only and does not consider your objectives, financial situation or needs. Please carefully read the Seniors Accident Cash Plan Policy Wording Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Financial Services Guide (FSG) before deciding if the product is right for you. For a full detailed view of the premiums, benefits, terms, conditions and exclusions that may apply, please read the Seniors Accident Cash Plan Policy Wording and Product Disclosure Statement. *Acceptance guaranteed for Australian residents aged between 18 and 84.

Please refer to our advertisement on the back page for all applicable disclaimer, terms and conditions. ^While stocks last.

Premiums start from $8.95 month and we pay in addition to any other cover you may have. Benefits include: Serious Accident benefit - $75,000Broken Bones benefit – up to $15,000Dislocation benefit – up to $3,000 for a range of bone dislocationsHome Assistance benefit – up to $300 per week for up to 13 weeksExtra Cash benefit – up to $125 per day for up to 30 daysBag Snatching benefit – $500 for any level of coverEmergency Transport benefit – $250 for any level of coverAccess to the Family Care SOS 24/7 referral service


TeCHNOLOgY | AustRAlIAn gOveRnMent OnlIne seRvIces

Whether you’re still working or just enjoying retirement, you can use express Plus to keep connected with Centrelink.Technological beginners and tech savvy seniors alike are discovering how helpful the Express Plus Seniors app is.

“I think an app is so much easier to operate than going online,” says Peter Thomas who is a long-time computer user. “You put a pin number in and away you go.”

“I looked at the app and I could access things like my personal information and my profile,” he says, “I found that very useful.”

Peter isn’t alone in thinking that the apps are easy for

people on the go. Lionel and Mary Jacobson are among the growing number of grey nomads using the apps as they travel in their retirement.

“I really thought it would be just a big holiday,” says Mary when describing their travel. “I thought it would be like an extension of my six weeks leave I was used to at Christmas time.

“But I’ve never been so busy, never been so short of time to do the basics.”

Keeping their payment up-to-date has become much

easier since downloading Express Plus Seniors.

“With the Seniors app only needing a four digit pin, it is so quick, so easy,” says Mary. “It’s like having your pin numbers for the bank.” “I think it’s up there with banking online,” says Lionel. “You can just find out in a moment how things are going.”

For more information about Express Plus apps, visit humanservices.gov.au/expressplus

℡

�

Computers made Easy& Affordable!Connecting with grandkids, shopping online, or just having fun – there are so many reasons why you should get online. WorkVentures is a non-profit organisation that has helped over 40,000 people get started with computers, and we’d love to help you.

Call 1800 112 205 or go to

www.workventures.com.au/seniorsFor just $269, our Seniors Pack includes:l Quality corporate refurbished computer - Including 17” LCD monitor, keyboard & mouse l Plenty of support - Free & unlimited telephone support - 6 month warrantyl Easy to follow video tutorials - Includes lessons on computer basics, using the internet, Facebook & Skype, designed by seniors for seniors (normally $45). l Delivery to your door (excludes very remote locations)l Valuable and user-friendly software - Microsoft Windows 7 Professional and Office 2007 (Word, Excel, Outlook)Call us to ask about laptop availability.

“My computer has changed my world. Instead of visiting my grandkids every 6 or 8 months, I use Skype to make a video call to them every week. My family now feels so much closer.” Shirley from Tasmania.


Using australian government online services just got easier with the launch of mygov

The Australian Government is committed to improving the delivery of online services to all Australians and has launched its new online service myGov, available at my.gov.au

It’s simple and easy to use and gives you access to a range of government online services in one secure place, with one username and one password.Once you have created an account you’ll be able to personalise your account by selecting the online services you want to link to, including:

• Medicare—lodge a claim, request a card, update your bank and personal details and view your information

• National eHealth Record System—get your personal eHealth record to help better manage your health

• Centrelink—claim a payment, report and update your details, view your information, request a document, replacement card and more

• Child Support—check when your payments are due, view your payment history, update your details and more

• Department of Veterans’ Affairs—view your payments and claims, apply for entitlements, update your details and more

Every time you sign in, you’ll have all of your linked services at your fingertips.

If you have an australia.gov.au account you can sign in with your ID and password.

Sign in regularly as new features and more member services will be added in the future—saving you time for the important things.

Create an account at my.gov.au

nbn.gov.au

New to the internet or know someone who is? Visit our free website

and discover that the internet can be:

• easy to learn• safe to use• and fun to explore.

SAVE UP TO 30%

✔ NO excess download charges✔ NO hidden fees✔ NO confusing fine print✔ Just affordable, easy to understand plans and good old-fashioned customer service!

Special offer FOR OVER 50’s

*Internet connection may not be available in all areas.

INTERNET PLANS MADE SIMPLE!

Go online now to find the best plan for you:

www.MisterInternet.com.auOr contact us with any questions you may have:

Telephone: 1300 74 74 88

Mister

InternetInternet


ASK FOR

BRANDTHE

1250$1250$Scootersfrom

FREE

IN-HOME

DEMO

FREE CALL 1800 672 633For a free in-home demo, brochure or for more information

T.G.A. registered product with full Parts and Service Backup

Over 15 Models to choose from

TeCHNOLOgY | sOcIAl netwORkIng

a Finerday for social media Social networking is kind of like going to book club or joining a community group. This get-together just happens to have a global network of information technology infrastructures, telecommunications networks and computer processing systems—otherwise known as cyberspace—working away in the background to make it possible.

Finerday is a UK-founded social networking site similar to Facebook, specifically catering to older Australians who like to keep in touch with family and ‘genuine’ friends. It’s unpretentious, secure and simple to use and has really taken off in Australia since its launch a couple of years ago.

Benetas Colton Close in Victoria was the first aged-care facility in Australia to introduce the new social media platform for its residents in 2011.

Sandra Hills, CEO of Benetas Colton Close, says it’s been a great way for their residents to stay in touch with friends and family.

“Since the introduction of Finerday at Benetas Colton Close, a number of residents now regularly go online,” she says. “It really has improved their lives.”

Connecting with family and their community is so important for older people to reduce social isolation.

In November last year, Finerday launched its free, secure video messaging service at the Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association Conference in Sydney.

Currently usable on all major browsers and devices with further applications to be launched for the iPad, this function allows Finerday users to record video messages and send them to a recipient’s secure inbox.

To sign up, go to finerday.com/register

File

pho

togr

aph


FREE* Hearing Aids for Pensioners.AudioClinic is accredited to provide FREE* hearing aids to eligible Pensioners and Veterans. Special benefits may also be available for self-funded retirees and people still working.

We offer FREE^ hearing check-ups at over 230 convenient locations.

Don’t wait, fill out and post the form or freecall 1800 043 502 and reconnect with the sounds you love.

^Free hearing check-ups are only available to adults. *Conditions apply to clients under the Commonwealth Hearing Services Voucher System. ‡ PRIVACY STATEMENT: The information you provide is collected by AudioClinic Australia in compliance with the Privacy Act (Cth) 1988. You can view AudioClinic Australia’s full privacy policy by visiting www.audioclinic.com.au/privacy-policy. By providing your contact details, you agree to be contacted by AudioClinic Australia on hearing health for an indefinite period. AudioClinic Australia may share your information with affiliates, contractors or service providers who act on our behalf, are subject to confidentiality agreements and will only use that information for the purposes for which we provide it. Except where you are otherwise notified, AudioClinic Australia will not make your personal details available to unrelated third parties. AudioClinic Australia does not sell or rent the personal information it collects. You can opt out of receiving information at any time by calling 1800 057 220. AC10035 05/13

Title

First name

Last name

Address

Suburb

State Postcode

Date of Birth / /

Phone ( )

Mobile

Email

@

YES, please contact me to make an appointment for a FREE hearing test at my nearest AudioClinic.‡

Please complete and mail postage-free to: AudioClinic, Reply Paid 509, North Ryde BC NSW 1670

www.audioclinic.com.au

227209 0513 AC10035 News For Seniors Ad.indd 1 9/05/13 3:46 PM


HeaLTH | ItA ButtROse tAlks MAculAR degeneRAtIOn

“As a journalist and author, dad always started the day reading a couple of newspapers. Suddenly this was no longer possible. I couldn’t imagine not being able to read again.”

Three of her father’s siblings—Ita’s aunt and two of her uncles—were also affected by macular degeneration (MD).

“One thing I’ve noticed is how few people know that a direct family history of MD brings a 50 per cent greater chance of developing it,” she says.

MD causes loss of central vision which is vital to your ability to read, drive and see colours clearly. Smoking increases a person’s risk of MD by three to four times and can cause blindness.

Julie Heraghty, Chief Executive Officer of the Macular Disease Foundation Australia, says “You can’t do much about the risk factors of age and family history, but you can about smoking. The key message is seeking help from your doctor to quit and save your sight.”

One in seven people over the age of 50 in Australia (one million people) show some evidence of MD¹.

If you notice any sudden changes in your vision, see your optometrist or ophthalmologist immediately.

Don’t think you’re just getting older, experiencing eye strain or feeling tired.

It’s important to note that in the early stages there may be no visual symptoms.

You can check for changes in your vision at home using a simple Amsler grid. This doesn’t replace an eye test by an eye care professional.

To order a free Amsler grid and information kit visit www.mdfoundation.com.au or Freecall™ 1800 111 709.

Macular degeneration2013 Australian of the Year, Ita Buttrose AO OBE, wants to stop Australians going blind.

“For me it’s personal. I was terribly upset when my late father told me he had macular degeneration,” says Ita.

¹ ‘Eyes on the future – A clear outlook on age-related macular degeneration’. Report by Deloitte Access Economics & Macular Degeneration Foundation, 2011.

Symptoms of MD can include:

• difficulty with reading• straight lines appearing wavy or bent• dark patches or empty spaces in the centre of your vision • difficulty distinguishing faces.


No more excuses for putting off a hearing check-upSince he started wearing a hearing aid, Dr John D’Arcy is hearing better than he has in years.

“It’s taken away the fatigue of listening. I don’t have to struggle hard to appreciate what people are saying. That’s the biggest thing!” says Dr John, the Ambassador for Australian Hearing.

“Consider your hearing as you do having your blood pressure checked—as a priority”. Doing something about your hearing is easy. The Australian Government Hearing Services Program

provides a range of hearing services and makes it affordable for eligible seniors.

“People should also remember that having a hearing check isn’t just about finding out if you need a hearing aid,” says Dr John. “There are many other ways to help you hear better. Your audiologist will work with you to find the best strategy to help improve your overall hearing.”

To find out if you’re eligible for the Hearing Services Program, visit health.gov.au/hear or call Freecall™ 1800 500 726.

For more information about Australian Hearing visit hearing.com.au or call your local hearing centre on 131 797 to find out contact details of your nearest Australian Hearing centre.

Please send me a copy of Destination Tasmania 2013-2014Full Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pcode: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .TAL32076

Phone 1800 815 906

www.seniorscoachtours.com.au

COACH TOURS

www.seniorscoachtours.com.au

Email: [email protected]

Please send me a copy of Destination Tasmania 2013-2014

Place coupon in an envelope and post to: Seniors Coach ToursReply Paid 62885, Forest Hill 3131 NO STAMP REQUIRED Is

sue

91 N

ews

for

Seni

ors

June

201

3

� Airfares from nearest capital city to and from Tasmania� Cooked breakfasts, all dinners, most lunches� 2 person crew with coach captain and hostess� All admittances also included� Most morning and afternoon teas� No single supplement if willing to share

A tantalising holiday experience

Our 2013-2014 Destination Tasmania program offers 7 to 12 day holidays designed specifically for ‘mature age’ travellers. Easy paced travelling, great attractions, stunning scenery, rich cultural history, in the company of others of similar age and interests led by two person experienced crew. Travel in modern 2 door coaches as you sit back and enjoy an armchair ride around this beautiful island.

Stay in comfortable motels, enjoy excellent food, all breakfasts and dinners plus most lunches and morning/afternoon teas with no hidden additional costs. Phone, email or send coupon provided for your copy of the Destination Tasmania brochure. Also available now from our website Departures October 2013 to April 2014.

Discover enchanting Tasmania

Please send me a copy of Destination Tasmania 2013-2014Please send me a copy of Destination Tasmania 2013-2014Please send me a copy of Destination Tasmania 2013-2014Please send me a copy of Destination Tasmania 2013-2014

Airfares from nearest capital city to and from Tasmania

Please send me a copy of Destination Tasmania 2013-2014Please send me a copy of Destination Tasmania 2013-2014Please send me a copy of Destination Tasmania 2013-2014

Airfares from nearest capital city to and from TasmaniaAirfares from nearest capital city to and from Tasmania2013-14brochure availablenow!AMAZING VALUE: from $265 per day

including airfares

Your fare includes:Tu

lloch

Adv

202

1


LIFesTYLe | yOuR RetIReMent exPeRIence

Malcolm Browna long walk down memory lane

Malcolm Brown is an unlikely candidate for living out his retirement on a golf course.

You would be more likely to run into the former Sydney Morning Herald journalist wandering down the Great Western Highway in New South Wales—where he recently hoofed it from Sydney to his home town of Dubbo.The 400 kilometre trail Malcolm blazed was something he has always wanted to do and last year he was afforded the time to do it, thanks to a voluntary redundancy taken from the Sydney newspaper where he had worked for 40 years.

The 65-year-old tells his tales of the road from a historical perspective—as he describes it, “following the explorers, gold-seekers, pastoralists, bushrangers, convicts and soldiers in the first penetration into the interior.”

Along the way, Malcolm raised more than $10 000 for two Sydney children’s hospitals.

“It all began when a good friend, Franca Arena, said she would give me a dollar a kilometre for the Children’s Hospital, Westmead,” explains Malcolm.

“Once that was publicised I had people donating money all along the way. It was an extraordinary response.”


Here are some excerpts from Malcolm’s online blog...

a long walk down memory lanePublished: December 24, 2012

For myself, having done 40 years in metropolitan journalism, it is to the bush I must return, back to the goldfields where as a very young reporter I wrote about the attempts to extract value from the tailings, back to the sheep yards and the country towns, the eucalypts and the cypress pines, the dry creeks and the rivers and the endless, endless space.

The road is like myriad others: a strip of bitumen.

I was born beside that road in 1947 as it snaked its way through Dubbo streets on its way to the far west. For most of my life I have lived and worked beside it or a matter of blocks away, including more than 20 years at the Herald’s Broadway building. It is on that road that I have slaved and wept.

Wandering in explorers’ footsteps Published: December 30, 2012

It’s easy to feel the exhilaration of the explorers when they reached the top of Mount York and saw Hartley Valley below.

Getting up the mountains has been a solid slog but without drama. I took the back roads through Wentworth Falls in company with Daniel Lewis, one of the legion of redundant former Fairfax employees seeking a new direction in life.

Dubbo or bust: Bathurst Published: January 3, 2013

With half the pilgrimage to Dubbo completed and having acquired my first blister, I am sitting on the top of the Rocks Mountain above Bathurst, having gone through the city and seen the site on the banks of the Macquarie River where Governor Macquarie pronounced the settlement in 1815.

Dubbo or bust: the road to Orange Published: January 4, 2013

I’m now about 15 kilometres out of Orange, way ahead of schedule, my progress hastened by publicity and goodwill, including that of a couple who drove all the way to Lithgow and back to bring me a cup of takeaway coffee.

Dubbo or bust: the road to Cabonne shire Published: January 7, 2013

I am out of Orange and now into Cabonne Shire, which a sign says is the home of the Wiradjuri people. The land is very dry. A temperature of 43 degrees has been forecast. The dry heat was a welcome relief from the humidity as I came down from the mountains but now it is harder to take. It is the dry heat which explorer Charles Sturt once said sucks the life out of anything. But, unlike Sturt, I now have a road crew, comprising my sister Jill, a Canberra GP, who stops every five kilometres or so and gives me an iced lemon drink. It is not quite in the pioneering spirit but Sturt would undoubtedly have partaken of it.

I have told people I am doing the walk to raise money for the two Sydney children’s hospitals and people have reached for their wallets. Dennis, a truck driver, gave me a $100 note.


LIFesTYLe | yOuR RetIReMent exPeRIence (cOntInued)

Dubbo or bust: the road to Wellington Published: January 7, 2013

The further I am from Sydney, the friendlier everyone has become. A couple had me in their farmhouse for lunch. Terry Jones, former editor of The Area News in Griffith, stopped for a chat, a lemonade and recollections of the Don Mackay case.

Dubbo or bust: the Wellington Valley Published: January 8, 2013

I am on the 12th day of walking on my trek from Sydney to Dubbo and making good time down the Wellington Valley.

I have walked down the valley with reasonable ease. My sister Meredith, having taken over road crew duties, insists on spraying me with misty water every five kilometres. I have protested that John Oxley—and Charles Sturt who followed him—never had such luxuries. “But they would have enjoyed it had it been available,” she said.

Dubbo or bust: the Mitchell Highway Published: January 9, 2013

On the last stages of my Sydney to Dubbo trek, I am on the Mitchell Highway, 40 kilometres from Dubbo, in tinder-dry conditions with a fierce north-westerly wind cooling my face but spelling potential disaster for others.

Dubbo or bust: the final stretch Published: January 10, 2013

On my last day of trekking from Sydney to Dubbo, I am now in the rolling slopes of NSW with the country given over to the beautiful kurrajong, Cyprus pines and sturdy box gums.

I am going down memory lane, passing the stretches of bush I once wandered, but my blistered right foot tells me that all good things must come to an end.

Dubbo or bust: mission accomplished Published: January 11, 2013

Journey over, I arrived at the Dubbo cenotaph at 2.45 pm on Wednesday after covering what one odometer reading calculated as 409 kilometres from Martin Place.

Search for ‘Malcolm Brown’ on smh.com.au to read Malcolm’s blog.

superannuation investments and turning age pension ageWhen you turn age pension age your superannuation investments will be included in the assets test and deemed under the income test.

If you’re receiving a pension or allowance that can be paid past age pension age, you may choose to remain on this payment rather than transfer to Age Pension once eligible.

Even if you choose not to receive Age Pension, your superannuation investments will still be counted, as it’s your age and not your payment type that determines this. Superannuation investments aren’t included in the means test if they’re held by someone under age pension age and have not been converted to an income stream.

If you have reached age pension age and your partner has not, your superannuation will be included in your combined assets. However, your partner’s will not be counted until they reach age pension age.

Our Financial Information Service (FIS) can help you understand superannuation investments. FIS officers are available to assist you make informed financial decisions.

For more information go to humanservices.gov.au/fis or call 132 300.


Cairns& Great Barrier Reef*

$999pp$999pp

Airlie BeachResort Relaxation* $899pp$899pp

$749pp$749ppfromfrom

fromfrom

Sunshine Coast & Mooloolaba*

Adelaide& Barossa* $899pp$899pp

fromfrom

fromfrom

Alice & The Rock* $1149pp$1149pp

fromfrom

Brisbane& Gold Coast* $1199pp$1199pp

fromfrom

Sydney& Harbour* $1099pp$1099pp

fromfrom

P: 1300 30 55 33P: 1300 30 55 33

There are more great value holidays in our

brochure.Order yours today!

E: [email protected]: [email protected]

Package Inclusions:

• Return airport transfers • 5 nights quality accommodation• Breakfast daily • 3 x lunches or dinners • 3 or 4 x day tours* Bonus Offer: Buy one extra night, get another night free (including breakfast)

Thinking of your next getaway?

We’ve got plenty of holiday options

for you!

Thinking of your next getaway?

We’ve got plentyof holiday options

for you!

Airfares not included, Prices are in $AUD and include GST, pp = Price per person twin share, Conditions apply.

www.hsptravel.com.auwww.hsptravel.com.au

Australia’s Best Value Senior 5 Night Holidays!Australia’s Best Value Senior 5 Night Holidays!


Tips to keep your finances on track

LIFesTYLe | yOuR MOney

Here are some helpful financial tips to help you plan for a better retirement.Look at your current financial situation. Determine your income, expenditure, assets and liabilities with a budget and balance sheet. This will help you prioritise and determine what you need to achieve your goals. Do this regularly to ensure your finances are on track and make adjustments where necessary.

Look at both short and long-term goals and put strategies in place to achieve them. Make use of available government, industry and consumer resources to help you achieve these goals and maintain your investments.

For details on resources for consumers, investment information, useful tools and calculators, go to National Information Centre on Retirement Investments website nicri.org.au or call 1800 020 110.

Retirement for many is a time in life when the stress of work and managing family life usually eases. However, the stress of managing finances can remain.

situations to avoid• Accepting credit card increase invitations and not keeping limits to a minimum.• Selling growth assets such as shares

when markets are down without considering longer term aspects.

• Making decisions based on what other people are doing or what they say (seek professional advice and information that is best for you).

• Falling for scams. This is easier said than done, but research all offers and check Scamwatch scamwatch.gov.au and/or your state/territory Office of Fair Trading.

• Not doing anything—failing to plan is planning to fail.

File

pho

togr

aph


CONCessIONs | senIORs HeAltH cARd

w w w . b o m b o r a r e s o r t . c o m . a u

FREE CALL 1800 074 363 Call today for a FREE Tour Brochure | Australian Family Owned & Operated

Bombora is 100% Australian, family owned and operated for over 40 years. We pride ourselves in maintaining our 5 star service to all of our clients.

l Gold Coast Explorer (7 nights)l Scenic Sunshine Coast (7 nights)l Tweed Coast Escape (7 nights)l Outback Queensland Adventure (13 nights)l Cairns & Cooktown (7 nights)l The Gulf Of Carpentaria (8 nights)l Incredible East Coast of Queensland (10 nights)l Darwin & Kakadu Top End Special (6 nights)l Real Red Centre Tour (8 nights)l Kimberley Coast WA(9 nights)l Port Stephens & Hunter Valley (7 nights)l Cape York Expedition (9 Nights) and so much more....

Bombora has its own resort in Coolangatta,

Queensland. From here guests can

participate in some of our fantastic tour

packages. Other tour packages are

operated from other incredible

destinations through out Australia.

BOMBORA’S ALL INCLUSIVE TOUR PACKAGES INCLUDE

BOMBORA’S ALL INCLUSIVE TOUR PACKAGES INCLUDE

Gold Coast Explorer

from

$849per person twin sharefor 8 Days!!

WINTERSALEFREE BROCHURE

WINTERSALEFREE BROCHURE

Income thresholds for concession card holders If you hold a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) you should let us know about any changes in your income which may take you over the income thresholds.

To qualify for a CSHC your annual adjusted taxable income must be less than $50 000 for singles; $80 000 for couples (combined income); and $100 000 combined for couples who are separated (for example, by illness or respite care).

If your income goes above these amounts you should call us on 132 300.

It’s important that you tell us about changes to avoid being overpaid or incurring a debt.

To ensure that customers receive their correct entitlement, the Department of Human Services undertakes data matching with the Australian Taxation Office.

CS

CSHC C

C CSHC CSHC C

C CSHC CSHC CSHC

HC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSHC

HC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSH

SHC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSH

SHC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSHC

C CSHC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSH


HC CSHC CSHC CSHC CS

HC CSHC CSHC CSH

CSHC CSHC C

CSHC

In August you will receive your new Commonwealth Seniors Health Card.The appearance of the card has changed but the concessions will remain the same, so you can be assured that your entitlements will not be affected.

For more information visit humanservices.gov.au/seniorshealthcard

CS

CSHC C

C CSHC CSHC C

C CSHC CSHC CSHC

HC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSHC


SHC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSH

SHC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSHC

C CSHC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSHC CSH


HC CSHC CSHC CSHC CS

HC CSHC CSHC CSH

CSHC CSHC C

CSHC


NeWs | letteRs

Hank Jongen—editor News for SeniorsMail: PO Box 7788 Canberra BC ACT 2610Email: [email protected]

Letter from the editor Dear readers,

Your comments, suggestions and feedback help us plan the content of News for Seniors and this edition is no different.

From tax time tips to information about scams and superannuation—we’ve tried to pack as much in here as possible to tackle the issues that mean the most to you.

It’s a busy time of year for our call centres with Federal Budget initiatives being rolled out along with

the end of the financial year, so I hope you haven’t been kept waiting too long.

Are you one of the 21 000 customers that has downloaded our Express Plus Seniors app? It really is a great way to connect with us without having to pick up the phone or go to a service centre.

I’ve been getting a lot of mail about concession cards and their offerings interstate. It can be very confusing figuring out what

cards can be used where and for what concessions. There is no short answer, as the states/territories are vastly different. I suggest you download our A guide to concession cards booklet from our website for more information about state and territory concessions.

Go to humanservices.gov.au/customer/publications/co153

Keep your input coming—this is your magazine and we love to hear from you. Until the next edition...

Letters to the editorDear Editor,

I would like some information regarding gifting rules for age pensioners.

Perhaps the rules have changed along with pension rates? I am sure other pensioners would like this information, especially new pensioners coming into the system.

Would it be possible for you to include this information in your next issue?

Thank you.

Ms A.


Dear Ms A,

You or your partner can give away money or other assets to any value you choose at any time, but the rate of income support payment you receive may be affected if you gift assets worth more than the allowable gifting amount.

The gifting rules are:

• thereisanallowablegiftingamount for a single person or a couple of $10 000 in a single financial year, and

• thereisanallowablegiftingamount for a single person or a couple of $30 000 over a five year rolling period. The rolling five year period is the current financial year plus the previous four financial years.

You can go to our website humanservices.gov.au/customer/enablers/assets to read more about disposing of assets or call 132 300 to speak to a Financial Information Service officer.

I trust this information will be of help to you. If there are any changes to these rules we will endeavour to include the details in a future edition of News for Seniors.

Regards,

Ed.

Dear Editor,

I am very pleased to see that you are publishing articles on the huge benefits of physical activity for seniors.

I am a recently retired 73 year-old physiotherapist and ex-Armed Forces physical training instructor, with over 50 years experience in physical therapy, exercise and rehabilitation.

I recently wrote an article about the importance of strengthening in ageing to avoid muscle wasting and weakness.

I work-out at my home three times a week and I don’t have expensive machines but still maintain a high standard of muscular strength and fitness despite debilitating arthritis in my shoulders, knees and spine.

My fitness and strength have enabled me to comfortably carry out my daily tasks and avoid expensive joint replacement surgery.

Hopefully, this might motivate your readers into a healthier lifestyle.

Kind regards,

B.G.

Dear B.G,

Evidently your extensive experience is certainly paying dividends as you look much younger than your physical age in the photo that you sent with your letter.

I hope you enjoyed reading about Malcolm Brown in this issue; the retired Sydney journalist who walked more than 400 kilometres from Sydney to his home town of Dubbo.

Also, our mature-aged worker Peter Spyker who walks 10 kilometres a day! If that doesn’t make people want to get up out of their chairs then who knows what will!

Here at News for Seniors we are well aware of the benefits of physical exercise for seniors and will continue to convey that to our readers as much as we can.

Thanks for your informative and inspiring words to keep us on our toes.

Yours sincerely,

Ed.


RaTes | VAlID FROM 1 JulY 2013 TO 19 SEPTEMBER 2013

Pension and Rent assistance Rates and Thresholds

sINgLe COUPLe combined

COUPLe one eligible partner

COUPLe separated due to ill health

How much pension Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight eachMaximum basic rate1 $733.70 $1,106.20 $553.10 $733.70Maximum pension supplement $61.20 $92.20 $46.10 $61.20clean energy supplement $13.50 $20.40 $10.20 $13.50TOTaL $808.40 $1,218.80 $609.40 $808.40Rent assistance2 Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight eachMaximum rate Rent Assistance $123.00 $115.60 $115.60 $123.00Maximum payment if rent above $273.20 $331.73 $331.73 $273.20no payment if rent below $109.20 $177.60 $177.60 $109.20allowable Income1a Per fortnight Combined Combined CombinedFull pension up to $156.00 up to $276.00 up to $276.00 up to $276.00Part pension less than

$1,772.80less than $2,713.60

less than $2,713.60

less than $3,509.60

allowable assets3 single Combined Combined CombinedFull pension—Home owner $196,750 $279,000 $279,000 $279,000Full pension—non-home owner $339,250 $421,500 $421,500 $421,500Part pension—Home owner less than

$735,750less than $1,092,000

less than $1,092,000


Part pension—non-home owner less than $878,250




Deeming Rates and Thresholds single Combined Combined Combinedthreshold $46,600 $77,400 $77,400 $77,400Rate below threshold 2.5% 2.5% 2.5% 2.5%Rate above threshold 4% 4% 4% 4%Commonwealth seniors Health Card (CsHC)

single Combined Combined Combined

Income limit (per annum)4 $50,000 $80,000 $80,000 $100,000

seniors supplement (per annum)5 $852.80 $1,284.40 $642.20 $852.80 eachclean energy supplement (per annum)5, 6 $351.00 $530.40 $265.20 $351.00 each

Pension Bonus scheme Maximum Rates Indexed 20 March and 20 september

sINgLe PaRTNeReD (each)

Registration in the Pension Bonus scheme* is limited to those who met the age and residence requirements for Age Pension before 20 september 2009. Registered members with unregistered partners may wish to contact the Financial Information service on 132 300 to discuss how this change might affect them. *If you are receiving or have received Age Pension, you are not eligible for a Pension Bonus.

Maximum Bonus after year 1 $1,845.20 $1,395.30






Pension Reform Transitional arrangements Rates and Thresholds

sINgLe COUPLe combined

COUPLe one eligible partner

COUPLe separated due to ill health

How much pension Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight eachMaximum rate $681.30 $1,100.40 $550.20 $681.30clean energy supplement $13.50 $20.40 $10.20 $13.50Total $694.80 $1,120.80 $560.40 $694.80allowable Income Per fortnight Combined Combined CombinedFull pension up to $156.00 up to $276.00 up to $276.00 up to $276.00Part pension less than

$1,893.00less than $3,078.00

less than $3,078.00

less than $3,750.00

allowable assets single Combined Combined CombinedFull pension—Home owner $196,750 $279,000 $279,000 $279,000Full Pension—non-home owner $339,250 $421,500 $421,500 $421,500Part Pension—Home owner less than

$660,000less than $1,026,500



Part Pension—non-home owner

less than $802,500




These figures are a guide only. Effective 1 July 2013 unless otherwise stated.

1. Rate of payment is calculated under both the income and assets tests. The test that results in the lower rate (or nil rate) is the one that is applied. There is no income or assets test for customers who are permanently blind, unless they wish to apply for Rent Assistance. Some assets are deemed to earn income and there are special rules for other types of income.a) Income over allowable amounts for full pension

reduces pension by 50 cents in the dollar for singles and 25 cents in the dollar each for couples; for those paid under the transitional arrangements, the pension reduces by 40 cents in the dollar for singles and 20 cents in the dollar each for couples. Contact the Department of Human Services on 132 300 for information on transitional arrangements.

b) Each fortnight, the Work Bonus disregards up to $250 of employment income earned by eligible pensioners over age pension age (unless paid Parenting Payment Single).

If employment income is less than $250, the unused Work Bonus accrues up to a maximum amount of $6,500. This bank then discounts future employment income that exceeds $250 per fortnight. If eligible for a transitional rate, we will compare the transitional rate (which has no Work Bonus) to the new rate (which has the Work Bonus). The transitional rate will continue until it no longer pays a higher rate.

2. Rent Assistance not payable to people paying rent to a government housing authority. Special rules apply to single sharers, people who pay board and lodging or live in a retirement village. There are additional rates for those who have dependent children. Rent Assistance is generally paid with Family Tax Benefit if there are dependent children, or with the pension if there are no children. For temporarily separated rates, call 132 300.

3. Single and combined couple rates are reduced by $1.50 per fortnight for every $1,000 of additional assets above the allowable assets limits for full pension. Certain assets, including a person’s home, are not included in the assets test.

4. Income test for the CSHC is adjusted taxable income.5. The Seniors Supplement and Clean Energy Supplement

are each paid quarterly. To calculate the quarterly amount, obtain the daily rate of each supplement by dividing the annual amount by 364. The quarterly amount is then calculated by multiplying the daily rate by the number of days each supplement is payable in that quarter.

6. CSHC holders will only receive Clean Energy Supplement if they also receive the Seniors Supplement.

Note: Absences from Australia may affect your payments. If you are planning on travelling outside Australia and would like information on how this may affect your payment, contact the Department of Human Services on 132 300.For more information call 132 300.

The transitional arrangements apply to certain pensioners who were receiving part pensions as at 19 September 2009 and only applies until they would get an equal or higher rate under the new rules. Rates are indexed by CPI only.


News | LETTERS

1 Age based premium providing $3,000 benefi t for a single person aged 50.2 Immediate cover for Accidental Death, cover for death by any cause after 12 months.Please note, if you hold your Policy for an extended period of time you may pay more in premiums than the Benefi t Amount. If cover ends, no benefi t is payable and there is no refund of premiums after the cooling off period. This is general advice only. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement to ensure the product suits your needs available by calling 1300 738 573. This information is provided by Australian Seniors Insurance Agency Pty Ltd ABN 48 097 746 391 (AR 270983), an authorised representative of Hollard Financial Services Pty Ltd ABN 53 128 692 884, AFSL 343079. Australian Seniors Final Expenses Insurance is issued by Hannover Life Re of Australasia Ltd, ABN 37 062 395 484. Terms and conditions apply.

Call 1300 738 573 for an obligation free quoteLines are open Monday to Friday 8am – 10pm (EST)

Applying is simple Apply over the phone, in minutes No medical exam and no blood tests required No intrusive health questions

Australian residents aged 50 – 79 are guaranteed acceptance

Choose the cover that suits you From $3,000 up to $15,0002

Up to $45,000 paid in the event of Accidental Death Optional Accidental Serious Injury cover Immediate cover for Accidental Death, cover for death

by any cause after 12 months

Complete peace of mind Thousands of Australians are choosing to protect their family with Seniors Final Expenses Insurance.

Request a FREE info packIf you are aged 50 to 79, simply complete and return this coupon to: Seniors Final Expenses Insurance, Reply Paid 7186, Baulkham Hills NSW 2153. No stamp required.

✁

Plus! FREE Will Kit with your Policy!

H08

65_A

SIA

_Cen

trel

ink_

07/1

3

As chosen by Australians from all walks of life

Title Mr Mrs Miss Ms Other

First name(s)

Last name

Date of birth D

D /

M

M /

Y

Y

Y

Y

Address

Suburb

State Postcode

Home phone ( )

Mobile phone

Call me regarding Seniors Final Expenses Insurance

We would like to keep you informed. However, if you would prefer that we do not keep in touch with you regarding our products and services, please tick here.

Seniors Final Expenses Insurance

Plan for the future, live for todayWith Final Expenses Insurance from $3.41 per fortnight1 you can relax and concentrate on getting the most out of your retirement.

As seen on TV

H0865_ASIA_Centrelink Ad_Jul13_Print.indd 1 19/04/13 9:49 AM


CONTaCTs | OnlIne seRvIces

self service options for you

There are several ways you can manage your business with us, including:

• Medicare and Centrelink Online Services—create a myGov account at my.gov.au with one username and password to do things like claim a payment or concession card, view your Medicare claims history and receive online letters.

• Express Plus Seniors app—if you are registered for Centrelink Online Services and have level 3 access, you can use the Express Plus Seniors app. You can update your details, receive online letters, read News for Seniors and much more.

• Phone self service—call 136 240 to request a replacement card, Income Statement or have other documents sent to you in the mail.

If you prefer to visit us, skip the queue at a service centre and use our self service computers. You can access your Medicare and Centrelink Online Services accounts or view other government and community websites. You can also print your documents, look for payments and services or search for a job.

Register or find out more about online services at humanservices.gov.au/selfservice

Key Human services contacts

Older Australians ..................................................132 300Age Pension, deeming, income and assets tests, Financial Information Service, Pension Bonus Scheme and Commonwealth Seniors Health Card.

International Services ..........................................131 673Pensions paid outside Australia, claiming pensions from other countries, pensions paid under International Agreements.

To speak to us in languages other than English ................................................131 202

Disabilities, Sickness and Carers .......................132 717

Feedback and complaints .........Freecall 1800 132 468To give feedback, suggestions or make a complaint.

TTY* enquiries ..............................Freecall 1800 810 586

TTY* Customer Relations ...........Freecall 1800 000 567*TTY is only for people who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment. A TTY phone is required to use this service.

Other key contacts

Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) Call 133 254 or Freecall™ 1800 555 254 from regional Australia. Go to dva.gov.au

Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs Call 1300 653 227 (calls are charged at a local rate except from mobile phones which are charged at mobile rates). Go to fahcsia.gov.au

Aged Care Australia Freecall™ 1800 200 422. Go to agedcareaustralia.gov.au

Note: calls from your home phone to our ‘13’ numbers from anywhere in Australia are charged at a fixed rate. That rate may vary from the price of a local call and may also vary between telephone service providers. Calls to ‘1800’ numbers from your home may be timed and charged at a higher rate.

At Australian Seniors we provide real value for money without compromising your protection—we make it our business to o� er you bene� ts that really matter.

ASK FOR YOUR FREE QUOTE TODAY!

or visit our website www.seniors.com.au* Condition Apply. Home & Contents and Motor Vehicle Insurance - Australian Seniors Insurance Agency Pty Ltd (ABN 48 097 746 391) is acting as an Authorised Representative No. 270983 (Seniors), and policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd (ABN 78 090 584 473) AFS Licence number 241436. Hollard is an Australian Prudential Regulation Authority authorised insurer. Quotations may not be available in some limited areas. Travel Insurance - Seniors travel insurance products are issued and underwritten by ACE Insurance Limited ABN 23 001 642 020, AFSL No. 239687 (ACE), and promoted b y Australian Seniors Insurance Agency Pty Ltd (ABN 48 097 746 391) Authorised Representative No. 270983 (Seniors). ACE and Seniors only provide general advice, and do not consider your objectives, � nancial situation or needs. Australian Seniors Funeral Plan is issued by Hannover Life Re of Australasia Ltd ABN 37 062 395 484 and promoted by Australian Seniors Insurance Agency Pty Ltd (ABN 48 097 746 391). Australian Seniors Insurance Agency is acting as the authorised representative of Hollard Financial Services Pty Ltd, ABN 53 128 692 884, AFSL 343079. Important Note: To decide if any of these products are right for you please carefully read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement which is available at seniors.com.au or by phoning the relevant customer service contact number. **Example based on 1 adult aged 50, travelling 5 days to New Zealand.

We o� er low-premium travel insurance o� ering worldwide protection (both domestic and overseas) 24/7.*

• Unlimited overseas medical expenses cover (Worldwide Plans)• Automatic inclusions: such as cover for loss of luggage, cancellation

charges, replacement of money and more• Competitive policies starting from $49**

for international One Trip travellers

Travel Insurance 10%discount for

all onlinepurchases.

13 76 76

Our policies aim to provide all the necessary cover and protection you would expect at a competitive price.

• Genuine savings of up to 40% off our standard premiums*• Monthly payments at no additional charge*• Combined policy 10% discount*

Home & ContentsSave

up to 40%* on your home

& contents insurance.

13 13 43

Our car insurance policies are easy to understand. We off er a great range of benefi ts and savings, including:

• Lower car insurance premiums, means savings for you• Monthly premiums at no extra charge• No forms to fi ll in, ever

Motor Vehicle Insurance Up to 10% discount when

you combine with home &/or

contents.

8180

couchcreative

.com

.au

• Savings of up to 40% off our standard premiums*• Monthly payments at no additional charge*• Combined policy 10% discountPlus many more bene� ts including competitive premiums for Landlords Insurance.

SAVE with the Over 50’s Insurance Specialist.

13 13 43

ASIA 8010 NFS PressAd_275x150mm_02.indd 1 27/11/12 9:55 AM

RT01

0.13

07

News for Seniors 091

Documents

Transcript of News for Seniors 091