News For Seniors
ISSUE 94 | APRIL 2015
A publication offering information, guidance and inspiration to Australian senior citizens
News for Seniors subscription
If 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.
Department of Veterans’ Affairs 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
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 on it in any way.
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.
© Commonwealth of Australia 2015. ISSN 1033-8365
A message from the Prime Minister
I’m pleased to be able to update you on some important government actions to protect your savings and to support
seniors.
You may recall that in 2012 the period of time for inactive bank accounts to be declared unclaimed was reduced
from seven years to three years. As a result, millions of dollars held in thousands of active savings accounts were
transferred to the government. In 2012–13 more than 156 000 accounts worth about $550 million disappeared into
the government’s coffers. People had to go through the time-consuming and costly process of reclaiming their
money. In some cases this took six months. This caused real financial distress, especially for older Australians and
community groups, who were not able to access their own funds when they needed them.
Recently, I announced that the government would deliver on our commitment to restore the time bank accounts and
life insurance policies can be inactive before they are transferred to the government to seven years. Children’s bank
accounts will be exempt to ensure funds put aside in these accounts will never be transferred to the government.
This recognises that many people choose to put money aside for their children’s future.
We are also making changes to protect the privacy of individuals who have genuinely inactive accounts transferred
to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission to address concerns around identity theft and to stop
unscrupulous people from preying on vulnerable Australians. Some unscrupulous businesses have been using this
information to charge fees as high as 25 per cent to reunite people with their own money.
I am also pleased to confirm that Australia’s age pensioners receiving the maximum rate of payment are $51.80 per
fortnight better off for singles and $78 per fortnight for couples since the government was elected. The recent
indexing of the Age Pension provides single age pensioners a $5.90 boost to their fortnightly payment or $153.40 a
year while couples will receive an extra $8.80 a fortnight or $228.80 a year.
Electricity bills are also lower as a result of the abolition of the carbon tax. The carbon tax is gone and the government
is continuing to pay the Energy Supplement—that’s an additional $14.10 per fortnight for single pensioners and $21.20
for couples.
There is also good news for part pensioners. Income tested part-pensioners will receive a double boost to their
payments as a result of the recent change to lower deeming rates. More than 770 000 Australians will receive, on
average, an extra $83.20 a year as a result of this government decision.
My government wants to do the right thing by Australian seniors—and especially to help pensioners keep up with
the cost of living.
A message from the Minister
Welcome to the first 2015 edition of News for Seniors.
In the previous edition of News for Seniors, we included a special supplement outlining the growing range of
digital services the department has to offer. I hope you found this useful and perhaps were inspired to start using
the department’s digital services. In this edition, some of our Service Officers have shared their stories about
helping enthusiastic older Australians use our digital options, like the Express Plus mobile apps and myGov.
Earlier this year I was pleased to officially open a myGov shopfront in Sydney. The government is committed to
making it easier to access services you need and the new shopfront is a key part of that goal, bringing together the
Department of Human Services and the Australian Taxation Office into one place.
The opening of the Sydney myGov shopfront follows the success of the Brisbane shopfront, which opened in June
2014. The public response to the Brisbane myGov has been extremely positive. Older Australians who attended the
Brisbane opening told me learning how to use the range of online options was a
positive experience.
If you don’t live close to a myGov shopfront, staff at all our service centres are happy to show you how to use our
mobile apps and self service computers. They can show you how to create a myGov account if you haven’t done so
already. The service now has over 6 million active users and you can read more about the new features and
enhancements to the service on page 12.
While we are meeting the demand for seamless and efficient technological services, the department continues to offer
phone and face-to-face services to help Australians through different phases of their lives. Our Multicultural Service
Officers (MSOs) are a prime example of this.
For 25 years, MSOs have helped millions of customers access government programs and services.
The relationship the MSOs have with groups and organisations in culturally and linguistically diverse communiti es
is invaluable. I know our dedicated MSOs are proud to be out amongst the multicultural communities, helping
people understand their options and the services available to them. There are a range of translated publications
available on the Human Services website—including News for Seniors. Visit
humanservices.gov.au/yourlanguage or to speak to someone in your language about Centrelink payments and
services, call our Multilingual Phone Service on 131 202.
Lastly, I want to reflect with you on the enormous sacrifice our parents and grandparents undertook for us. In
April, I will join you in remembering the sacrifice made by Australian and New Zealand troops who landed and
fought at Gallipoli 100 years ago. Lest we forget.
Reporting your employment income
Changes to your income may affect your payment. We need to know how much you have earned each fortnight so
you’re paid the right amount. You need to tell us if your circumstances change, including any changes to your
income. If you do not tell us about changes to your circumstances within 14 days, your payment may be affected.
You can report your employment income by:
• logging on to your Centrelink online account through myGov and selecting ‘Report employment income’
• using an Express Plus mobile app, or
• calling 133 276 on your reporting day.
If you tell us the wrong amount, you need to call or visit us as soon as possible to fix the mistake. This will ensure we
pay you the right amount. You cannot use self service to change an amount you have already reported.
For more information visit humanservices.gov.au and search for ‘income reporting’.
Income Stream Reviews are now quicker
Each year in August and February, we review certain types of income streams. When it’s time for you to complete an
Income Stream Review, we will let you know.
A quick and easy way to complete an Income Stream Review is online using your myGov account.
To use your myGov account:
1. Log on to your Centrelink online account through my.gov.au
2. Select your ‘Income Stream Review reminder’ and be guided through the process step-by-step.
If you can’t complete the review using your myGov account, a unique One Time Access Code is provided in your Income
Stream Review letter. The One Time Access Code is secure, simple and easy to use. It will allow you, or your nominee, to
complete the review online at humanservices.gov.au/incomestreamreviews
If you cannot complete the review online, call us on 132 300. Make sure you have the information about your Income
Stream Review products ready.
Our website has a range of support tools including videos and guides to help you use our online services. Visit
humanservices.gov.au/onlineguides
If you don’t have a myGov account, you can create one at my.gov.au
With a myGov account you can claim a range of payments, request income statements, update personal details and
more.
It’s easy to set up your Centrelink online account through myGov—select ‘Services’ and then the ‘link’ icon.
For more information about myGov, see page 12.
Champion marathon swimmer living life to the full...
It was a decades-old promise to his former local swimming coach, Des Renford, and a personal pledge to raise funds for
cancer research at the Melanoma Institute, which motivated Cyril Baldock to swim across the English Channel to France at
the age of 70 years and 9 months. Cyril’s first swim across the English Channel was in 1985 when he was 41 years old.
Completing the gruelling 34 km marathon swim in 12 hours and 45 minutes on 20 August 2014, Cyril broke the Guinness
World Record as the oldest man in history to do so.
With a support crew in the boat offering encouragement and sustenance, he arrived at Cap Gris Nez in France, exhausted but
exhilarated. ‘I haven’t had that much fun in years,’ Cyril said after his marathon swim. ‘At the 10 hour mark I felt like I was
going nowhere but my support crew was fantastic in their encouragement and inspired me to make it to the finish.’
A life member of Bondi Surf Club, with a patrol named after him for his dedication and commitment to the club, Cyril is still
very active as he works to motivate and inspire younger swimmers. His passion and love for the ocean date back to his
childhood. Cyril joined the surf club in 1958 at the age of 15. His grandchildren have followed his love of the ocean and are
training as Nippers at their local Eastern Suburbs beach.
His efforts and achievements have been noted by many near and far. Cyril was honoured to be nominated for Performance of
the Year in 2014 by the World Open Swimming Association. He has raised over $13 000 for charity, and those who have
donated to Cyril’s fundraising efforts describe him as an inspiring champion who makes them feel proud to be an Australian.
Cyril acknowledges his swim would not have been possible without the sponsorship of an aged care facility in Bondi. The
Director of the facility, Laurie Kresner, is also a former schoolmate of Cyril’s and said his old friend is a man who represents
positive ageing and achievement. ‘Cyril and I go way back, so having an opportunity to support him in this endeavour is an
honour. Cyril is a first class athlete and a proud Australian. We strive for excellence in aged care and Cyril strives to excel not
only in his sporting field but by gracefully ‘ageing well’ and setting goals when naysayers say we [seniors] may be past our
prime!,’ said Laurie.
As a motivational speaker, Cyril gives talks to residents, staff and guests at aged care facilities in Bondi, Sutherland and
Bankstown. He inspires them with tales of his dedicated training regime and the gruelling isolation of marathon swimming.
Cyril’s advice is that age should not restrict living life to the fullest and that it can often be mind over matter. Ageing does not
dampen the enthusiasm to live well and be positive!
Cyril’s outlook on life and overcoming challenges is an inspiration to all.
If you have a Twitter account, you can follow Cyril @BaldockCyril
Anzac Day
The Anzac Centenary, 2014 to 2018, is one of Australia’s most important periods of national commemoration. It’s a time
for all Australians to remember and commemorate the service and sacrifice of those who have served in the Australian
Defence Force over the last 100 years.
Anzac Day 2015 marks the centenary of the Anzac landings on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey. This battle was one
of many significant battles fought by Australian and New Zealand troops during the First World War.
As a nation, we pause on Anzac Day to remember the contribution of all Australians who served in the First World War,
and those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. We also honour the contributions made by Australian service men and women
from all wars, conflicts and peace-keeping operations over the last 100 years, and reflect on the families and communities
that support them.
There are lots of ways you can commemorate the Anzac Centenary, including:
Attending a Dawn Service
You can join in a local Dawn Service or watch the television broadcast of the Gallipoli and Villers-Bretonneux
services on the ABC.
Watching an Anzac Day March
You can find out about marches in your area by contacting your local Returned and Services League (RSL).
Anzac Centenary Photo App
Experience how local communities are marking this significant milestone in our history by viewing and sharing
images of commemorations from Australia and around the world using the Anzac Centenary Photo App at
spirit.anzaccentenary.gov.au
The assessment of account-based income streams has
changed
On 1 January 2015, the following changes to the assessment of account-based income streams took
effect.
Customers receiving income support payments
The assessment of income from account-based income streams (also called account-based pensions or allocated
pensions) for customers receiving pensions and allowances has changed. If you used superannuation to purchase
account-based income stream products, the balance of these products is now assessed as if they are returning a certain
percentage of income, regardless of the actual income being earned or drawn down.
This is known as ‘deeming’, which is how we assess income from other financial investments for income support
payments. Deeming means you do not have to advise actual returns and may reduce the extent to which your
payments vary.
For more information about deeming and the changes to the deeming rules for income support payments visit the
Department of Social Services (DSS) website, dss.gov.au and go to the Seniors section, select ‘Benefits and
payments’ and search for ‘Age Pension’. An e-Booklet is also available from the DSS website on the ‘Deeming
Information’ page.
Customers holding a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
The assessment for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) has changed:
• Account-based income streams will be assessed using the deeming rules. The deeming rules assume your financial
assets are earning a certain amount of income, regardless of the income they actually earn. If these financial assets
earn more than these amounts, the extra income is not assessed.
• Account-based income streams you held before 1 January 2015 will not be assessed using the deeming rules,
providing you remain eligible for the CSHC from 31 December 2014.
• If you change products, or buy a new account-based income stream from 1 January 2015, the new product will be
assessed using the deeming rules.
• If you have a partner who is aged 60 or more and not the holder of a CSHC, any account-based income streams they hold,
regardless of when they purchased the product, will be assessed under the deeming rules and may affect your entitlement to
the CSHC.
• If you’re no longer eligible for the CSHC from 1 January 2015, any account-based income streams you hold will
be assessed under the deeming rules if you reapply for a CSHC.
• If you’re a Low Income Health Care Card holder, the deemed income from your account-based income stream will
be used to assess your entitlement.
For more information about the CSHC, visit humanservices.gov.au/seniorshealthcard
Greater control over your aged care services
Freda Bishop has always been fiercely independent. At 101 years of age, she has overcome
numerous obstacles over her lifetime and losing her independence has always been one of her
greatest concerns.
With her daughter, Helen, as her full time carer and with additional assistance through a home care package, Freda has been
able to remain at home.
‘I became mum’s full time carer when mum was diagnosed with macular degeneration about 15 years ago,’ says Helen.
‘This was a difficult time for all of us, because mum had always enjoyed her independence.’
Over the last few years, Helen has taken on a greater carer role. Freda fell and broke her femur nine years ago, and
Helen had to do most tasks for her.
In 2013, Freda had another fall and broke her hip. At the time, Helen and her husband, Graham, were away on holiday.
While they were away, Graham broke his ankle—leaving Helen with two people to care for.
Aged 72 herself, Helen recognised the need for additional help. She called My Aged Care to find out what help was
available.
An Aged Care Assessment Team visited Freda and told her she would benefit from a home care package.
Freda’s home care package was delivered under consumer directed care, which meant there was an allocated budget for
the package, and Freda and Helen had more choice over the type of care and services they received.
‘I was so pleased that mum could choose the services she needed, such as help getting into bed four nights a week and
having someone come to shower her twice a week,’ says Helen.
‘When my husband and I went to India last year, my mum went to stay with my brother in Sydney and had her provider
broker services in Sydney to help her while she was there.
‘Just having this help has changed my mother’s life. It is wonderful to know that my mother can live a more
independent and active life with just a little extra help.’
Because of their experience, Freda and Helen’s advice is to not wait until the last minute, such as a serious fall or
emergency, to find out what aged care options are available. Visit myagedcare.gov.au or phone 1800 200 422 for more
information.
Important changes to consumer directed care
Consumer directed care has been progressively introduced into home care packages since August last year.
From 1 July 2015, consumer directed care will apply to all home care packages.
With consumer directed care, your home care service provider holds on to your home care budget on your behalf and
works with you and your carer to coordinate the services you want.
You can make choices about the types of care and services you want, including how care is delivered, who delivers it to
you, and when. Services include, but are not limited to, nursing, social support and domestic assistance. These can be
provided as part of your package to help you stay independent in your own home for longer.
You can also see how much funding is available for services and how the money is being spent.
Planning ahead ensures help and support will be there when you need it.
While they can be difficult conversations, the sooner you get to know what your options are, and can talk about them
and begin planning, the better the outcomes will be.
You can call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to talk to someone about your personal circumstances.
Telling us about your overseas travel is now quicker
and easier
If you receive an Age Pension or hold a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) you no longer need to tell us
you’re going overseas unless you:
• will be away for longer than six weeks
• are paid under the terms of a social security agreement with another country, or
• were previously living overseas and have returned to live in Australia within the last two years and you started
being paid Age Pension during this period.
If you have a partner in receipt of Disability Support Pension, different portability rules apply to this payment. Visit
humanservices.gov.au/paymentsoverseas to read about how travel affects Disability Support Pension payments.
You can now also use your Centrelink online account, through myGov, to tell us about your overseas travel when and
where it suits you.
If you hold a CSHC you can also now travel overseas for up to 19 weeks before your card is cancelled.
The Seniors Supplement and Energy Supplement can be paid for up to six weeks from the date of departure, provided
your CSHC remains current.
If you plan to travel outside Australia, visit humanservices.gov.au/paymentsoverseas to read about how travel affects
all payments and cards.
For more information about the CSHC, visit humanservices.gov.au/seniorshealthcard
myGov enhancements
Last issue, we gave you some handy tips and a step-by-step guide to help you sign up to myGov,
which now has more than six million active accounts. Since then, new features and account
enhancements have been added.
Update your address
myGov is trialling a new way for you to manage your home and/or postal address details using the Update Your
Details trial. It allows you to quickly and easily update your home and/or postal addresses with Medicare, Centrelink
and the Australian Taxation Office in one easy transaction.
Enhance your account security
You now have the option to enhance your account security by having a security code sent to your mobile phone each
time you sign in to myGov.
You need to have access to your mobile phone to use the security code feature. If you use the feature, you won’t have
to answer secret questions when you sign in.
Get mail from the Australian Taxation Office
In your myGov Inbox, you can now receive, view, print and save mail from the Australian Taxation Office, as well as
from Medicare, Centrelink and Child Support.
When you create a myGov account, you automatically get access to your Inbox so you can get all your mail faster, in
one secure place.
Important information
Soon, myGov will be the only way you can access your Centrelink online account. If you haven’t already, create a
myGov account at my.gov.au and link your Centrelink online account.
Connect with us using social media
Did you know you can follow us on social media to keep up-to-date on important updates and
information?
You’ll find us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Google+, with dedicated accounts for general information,
students, families and myGov. You’ll even find Hank Jongen on Facebook and Twitter!
Contrary to popular belief, social media is not only for teenagers. The number of older Australians joining social
media continues to grow. About 58 per cent of internet users aged 50–64, and almost one third of users aged 65 years
or over, use social media on a regular basis.
Facebook is the most popular social media platform, but there are many different types, and new platforms are being
developed all the time. Social media is not difficult to use and, following some simple tips, is a safe and secure way
to interact with your friends, family, the wider community and us.
Keen to get involved? Keep an eye out at local libraries and community centres for classes, or ask a friend or family
member to run you through the basics.
You can find out more about how the department uses social media, as well as links to our accounts, at
humanservices.gov.au/socialmedia
Hank’s top tips for using social media safely
1. PASSWORDS
Have a different password for each of your social networking accounts and never use the same password that you
have used for your bank or email.
2. FRIEND REQUESTS AND LINKS
Don’t accept a ‘friend request’ from strangers and don’t click links in ‘friend request’ emails you receive—always
type the social network’s website address into your browser. Genuine friend requests will appear on your home page
on your social networking site. It is easy to create a fake profile online and people aren’t always who they say they
are.
3. SHARING AND PRIVACY
Be careful about how much personal information you reveal online. There are privacy settings you can use to control
who has access to your information, so make sure you set your online profile to ‘private’. If you’re posting a question
to the social media account of a business or organisation, keep it general and never share personal or identifying
information such as your phone number, address or Customer Reference Number. We’ll never ask you to provide
personal information via our social media accounts.
4. POSTS
Before you write a message or post pictures, ask yourself if the information you’re sharing is something you want your
friends or family to see. Even deleted posts can remain on the internet for years.
5. VERIFICATION
Look for signs that you’re following and engaging with the official social media account for a business or
organisation. Many business and government profiles will display a ‘verified’ checkmark—on Facebook and Twitter
this will show as a tick in a blue circle. If you’re not sure if the page is official, check the website—most websites
now include links to official social media accounts.
Start your digital journey with us
Reaching retirement can mean different things and different challenges for older Australians—it can
be the time for making a sea change, learning something new or taking up a new hobby, travelling
overseas or even just enjoying a less hectic time in your life.
In this phase of your life, visiting one of our service centres to do something simple, like update your details, may not
fit in with your new-found freedom. This is why the Department of Human Services continues to improve our
services and transform the way we do business with you to suit your changing needs. We are delivering high quality,
flexible and efficient services, such as myGov, Express Plus mobile apps and other online services.
Using our online services gives you the freedom to do your business with us when and where it suits you. In the
previous issue of News for Seniors we included a digital supplement about these online services. In this issue we want
to share some experiences our Service Officers have had with customers who recently started their digital journey
with us.
Digitally capable
An 82-year-old customer told Basil*, from the Morayfield Service Centre in Queensland, she was keen to ‘go
digital’ after learning about the department’s online services. The customer said that she had been using computers
longer than Basil had been alive! ‘Her pet hate was people (especially younger people) assuming she isn’t digitally
capable. She was pleased at the ease with which she could do different things on the Express Plus mobile app like
updating her details,’ says Basil.
Six minutes to get started
Paula*, from the Pagewood Medicare Service Centre in New South Wales, noticed a customer in her 80s had her
mobile phone with her when she visited the service centre. She explained the benefits of using the Express Plus
mobile app to the customer. ‘I helped the customer create a myGov account and then downloaded the Express Plus
app,’ says Paula. ‘The customer was impressed that it only took about six minutes and said she would tell all her
friends at the club about it!’
All set and ready to go
Kate*, from the Townsville Willows Service Centre in Queensland, assisted an independent 89 year old who had not
been in contact with Centrelink for years. The customer called the department to update her details, but was advised
that there was a wait. ‘She decided to visit her local service centre, accompanied by her son,’ says Kate.
‘After I updated her records, the customer then asked for a phone self service PIN because she had read information
about getting a return call if she had a PIN. I issued a temporary PIN and told the customer she could update her
details and do other things through the department’s online accounts, like receiving online letters for example,’ she
says. The customer left happy—Kate thinks she will now do her business quickly and easily using phone self service
or an online channel.
Benefits to setting up a myGov account
Anna* from the Taree Service Centre in New South Wales, says they’re helping customers to set up email addresses
as well as myGov accounts. ‘I assisted one customer with creating an email account, a myGov account, and linked
their Medicare and eHealth online accounts—all in the one visit,’ says Anna. ‘The customer was very pleased and
appreciative because the new email account will help her keep in touch with her daughter who had recently moved
overseas.’
If you have a mobile phone or computer with internet access then you can give our online services a go—there is a
range of things you can do including looking for lost super by linking the Australian Taxation Office, viewing your
Medicare or Personally Controlled eHealth Record and much more! Even if you don’t feel confident navigating your
way through the internet, you can pop into your local service centre and a Service Officer will be happy to help get
you started—so that you have more time to spend on the things you enjoy in life.
*Names have been changed.
Marcia Hines—keeps an eye on her diabetes
Popular singer Marcia Hines knows all about diabetes and the damage this disease can cause the
body, including the eyes.
Marcia has lived with type 1 diabetes for over 27 years. At the age of 60 she says managing her diabetes, which
includes a healthy lifestyle and regular eye tests, is vital to maintaining good health and sight.
Marcia is just one of almost 1.1 million Australians currently diagnosed with diabetes1. Of those diagnosed, one in
three (over 300 000) will develop some form of diabetic eye disease2. Currently up to 50 per cent of Australians with
diabetes do not have eye tests every two years as recommended2, 3. If you have diabetes, it’s important to have regular
eye tests to avoid irreversible vision loss.
A healthy lifestyle is important in maintaining your health. ‘For me to feel my best, a balanced, healthy diet is
essential,’ says Marcia. ‘Oats, fruit and vegetables are some of my favourite healthy foods.’ Regular exercise is also a
priority for Marcia. ‘Like most people, I have days where I have to motivate myself to exercise, but once I’m out and
about, I feel absolutely fantastic,’ she says.
Julie Heraghty, CEO of the Macular Disease Foundation Australia, says early detection of diabetic eye disease is
critical. ‘There may be no symptoms, and damage can occur before there is any change to vision. Sometimes disease
progression can be rapid, so early diagnosis and, if necessary, treatment, is critical to saving sight.’
Early diagnosis, management and treatment of diabetic eye disease can prevent over 90 per cent of vision loss2.
‘I cannot stress enough how important it is for all those living with diabetes to have a comprehensive eye examination
at least every two years, or more often if recommended, and to follow your optometrist or ophthalmologist’s advice
to reduce the risks of vision loss from diabetic eye disease,’ says Julie.
Everyone with diabetes is at risk of developing diabetic eye disease. The longer you have diabetes, the more likely it
is to develop.
A free information booklet Diabetic Eye Disease is available from the Macular Disease Foundation Australia. Visit
www.mdfoundation.com.au or freecall 1800 111 709.
Three simple rules to follow:
1. If you have diabetes, visit an optometrist or ophthalmologist at least every two years for a comprehensive eye
exam.
2. If you have existing diabetic eye disease, more regular checks may be required, even if vision appears to be
perfect.
3. Be guided by your optometrist or ophthalmologist and do not cancel or delay appointments.
References:
1. diabetesaustralia.com.au/Understanding-Diabetes
2. Guidelines for the management of diabetic retinopathy, 2008, National Health and Medical Research Council
3. Larizza M, Medical Journal of Australia 2013;198:97
Missed an important moment due to hearing loss?
You’re not alone.
While more people than ever are getting their hearing checked, research by Australian Hearing has
revealed that thousands of Australians are still leaving their hearing loss untreated.
Around 87 per cent of Australians with untreated hearing loss struggle to follow conversations and are missing out on
special moments with family and friends. Almost a quarter of family and friends who have loved ones with hearing
difficulties admit they choose not to confide in them.
The research also found that around one third of sufferers have never had a hearing test, despite acknowledging that
they have poor hearing.
Principal Audiologist at Australian Hearing, Emma Scanlan, says hearing loss can be managed effectively with
proper diagnosis and treatment.
‘Hearing is an essential element to communication and taking action can lead to an improvement in your overall
quality of life,’ says Emma.
And doing something about your hearing is easy. The Australian Government Hearing Services Program provides a
range of hearing services for eligible seniors.
‘We support thousands of people with varying degrees of hearing loss, who continue to enjoy sound, despite their
hearing loss,’ says Emma.
Australian Hearing is one of over 230 providers that offer services through the Hearing Services Program nationally.
To find out if you’re eligible, visit health.gov.au/hear or Freecall™ 1800 500 726. For more information about
Australian Hearing visit hearing.com.au or call 1300 348 952.
Scooting across the Nullarbor Plain
Crossing Australia’s iconic Nullarbor Plain on a motor scooter is no easy ride, but a group of seniors
from across Australia have proven that they’re up to the challenge.
The 20 seniors travelled 2400 km on scooters from Port Augusta, South Australia to Fremantle, Western Australia in
September 2014 to raise awareness of depression and anxiety, and raised more than $50 000 for beyondblue.
The idea for the two-week ride, named the Scootabor Challenge, came from 73 year old Queenslander Ian ‘Jake’
Jacobsen, a former pilot and Antarctic explorer.
Jake is passionate about encouraging other seniors to live an active lifestyle to help maintain their mental health, and
to seek support when they may be struggling.
It’s thought that between 10 and 15 per cent of older people experience depression and approximately 10 per cent
experience anxiety.
While extreme activities might not be suitable for everyone, maintaining good health can also be achieved through
measures like eating well, exercising regularly and being involved in community activities.
‘The Scootabor Challenge was about inspiring Aussie seniors to get the most out of their lives, by keeping active and
tapping in to their sense of adventure,’ says Jake.
‘It was also about promoting the value of older people to the broader community. Our age makes us an asset, not a
liability.
‘All of the Scootabor Challenge riders have been affected by depression or anxiety, either because we have
experienced these conditions personally or someone close to us has, so we’re thrilled to support beyondblue,’ he says.
For information on the signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety, available treatments, and details of where to
get help, go to beyondblue.org.au
Trained mental health counsellors are available via the beyondblue Support Service on 1300 224 636 or webchat or
email at beyondblue.org.au/get-support
BreastScreen Australia program
Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women and getting older is the
biggest risk factor for developing the disease.
Research shows that early detection through regular screening can reduce the rates of illness and death from breast
cancer. Early detection allows women to access a wider range of treatment options before the symptoms progress.
The BreastScreen Australia program invites women aged between 50–74 to have free screening mammograms.
If you’re aged 50–74 you’ll receive a reminder from BreastScreen Australia every two years to book an appointment.
You can find out more at cancerscreening.gov.au or call 132 050 to book a mammogram at your nearest
BreastScreen Australia service.
Donating dos and don’ts
Supporting different charities through donations is a great thing to do but you should always do
some research about the charity before you donate. It’s also important to make sure that the charity is
actually receiving your donation.
Here are some things to think about before you donate.
Check the charity
Even if you’ve heard of the charity, you should check that the person who contacts you is authorised to represent that
charity.
If you’ve been approached face-to-face, ask to see some identification and a copy of the charity’s pledge form. These
should contain the:
• full name of the organisation
• corporate registration number such as an Australian Business Number
• business address, and
• organisation’s logo.
You should also call the charity directly to verify their contact details. Be sure to cross-check their phone number in
the telephone directory.
You can visit acnc.gov.au to see if the charity is registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits
Commission.
Be wary of giving credit card details
If you’ve been contacted by phone, don’t give out your credit card or banking details. If it’s a reputable charity,
there’ll be other ways to donate.
Ask about these options and make sure you check the validity of any website or social media page you’re directed to.
To find out about the latest charity scams, visit scamwatch.gov.au/charityscams
Check if it’s tax deductible
A donation is only tax deductible if it’s given to a charity that has been endorsed by the Australian Taxation Office
(ATO) as a deductible gift recipient (DGR) organisation.
You can check if an organisation is a DGR by visiting abr.business.gov.au or calling the ATO on 132 861.
To receive a deduction, the donation must be $2 or more and must be claimed in your tax return for the income year
in which the donation was made. In some circumstances, you can choose to spread the tax deduction over five income
years. For more information visit ato.gov.au and search for ‘gifts and donations’.
Visit the Australian Securities and Investments Commission’s MoneySmart website at moneysmart.gov.au for more
tips and information that will help you make informed financial decisions.
Donating may affect your payment
You or your partner can make a donation in the form of money or other assets to any value you choose at any time.
Before you make a donation, you should carefully consider how it may affect your payment.
If you donate or make gifts of more than $10 000 in one financial year or $30 000 in any five financial year period,
we’ll assess the excess as a deemed asset as if you still owned it for the next five years. Your pension may not
increase, and in some circumstances may decrease, even though you now own less.
You must tell us about any donations or gifts within 14 days of when they have been made. More information is
available by searching for ‘gifting’ at humanservices.gov.au
The Financial Information Service is celebrating 25
years
For 25 years, the Financial Information Service (FIS) has been helping customers understand their finances. The FIS
provides free, confidential information about investment and financial issues and can help you to learn more about
preparing for retirement as well as understanding your pension and the options you may have.
It’s estimated the service has helped 6.8 million customers since it was established in 1989 by the Department of Social
Security. It started with 20 FIS officers and now has 120 officers around Australia. Their role was, and still is, to
provide information and education services to the community. Today FIS is also providing help to an increasing number
of customers under 55 years of age.
In 2013–14, FIS officers:
• responded to over 82 500 phone calls
• conducted more than 67 900 interviews, and
• held 2600 seminars for over 77 800 participants.
Kathleen and Robyn are two of our longest serving FIS officers, each with over 20 years of experience.
They both became FIS officers in 1993 and have been helping people ever since.
‘I like being able to provide people with information for the best financial outcome. Sometimes if people don’t
understand the options available to them they can make choices that give them less income than they might have
otherwise. No two situations are ever the same,’ says Kathleen.
‘I love helping people to understand complex concepts. So many people benefit from hearing about their financial
options in plain English, and with some humour. It helps things make sense,’ says Robyn.
A typical day for Kathleen and Robyn includes customer interviews, presenting FIS Seminars or answering calls to
the FIS phone service.
‘Being a FIS officer is interesting and challenging. It’s so rewarding helping people to understand their financial
options. I have never wanted to do anything else,’ says Robyn.
‘It’s the best job in the department,’ says Kathleen.
FIS officers like Kathleen and Robyn can help you to:
• increase your confidence in dealing with investments
• understand your own financial affairs and options
• understand the levels of risk for each financial product type
• understand the roles of financial industry professionals and show you how to use expert information
• use credit in a sensible way
• plan for your retirement, and
• understand the financial implications when you, or someone close to you, is considering moving into residential
care.
You can speak with one of our FIS officers by calling 132 300. Or, for a list of upcoming seminars in your area, visit
humanservices.gov.au/fis
Booking is essential and can be made by calling 136 357 or emailing fis.seminar.bookings@humanservices.gov.au
Centrepay and the Deduction Statement helps you
manage your money
Centrepay is a free service where we can deduct regular amounts from your Centrelink payments to pay bills and
meet ongoing expenses such as rent, utilities, nursing home fees and medical expenses. These deductions are made
directly from your Centrelink payments so you don’t need to do anything. You can also keep track of your Centrepay
deductions through your Deduction Statement.
On your Deduction Statement you can view your next regular payment, all the amounts being deducted from your
payment and the money you’ll have remaining. The statement can include some or all of the following:
• weekly payments (if you receive your payments weekly)
• Centrepay deductions
• participation penalty amounts and non-payment periods
• urgent and advance repayment amounts
• debt repayments
•
•
•
•
child support payments
tax deductions
amounts directed to your Income Management account
rent deductions as part of the Rent Deduction Scheme.
The easiest and quickest way to get your Deduction Statement is to view and print it using the ‘Request a Document’
service from your Centrelink online account through myGov, or you can request it using phone self service by calling
136 240.
If you don’t have a Centrelink online account or a myGov account, visit humanservices.gov.au/register
If you’re unable to access your online account, our staff will be able to assist you with your Deduction Statement.
Call us on 132 300 or visit your local service centre.
It’s a good idea to check your Deduction Statement regularly to track deductions and make sure your financial
arrangements are correct. Visit humanservices.gov.au/deductionstatement for more information and a step-by-step
tutorial on how to request a Deduction Statement using your Centrelink online account.
Letter from the General Manager
Dear readers,
The 25th of April 2015 marks the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings and it’s estimated that 10 500 people
will attend the Anzac Day Dawn Service in Turkey.
More than four times that number applied for a place at the Dawn Service ceremony to pay respect to our soldiers
who fought so valiantly. If you were one of the people selected in the ballot, you have a rare opportunity to
participate in an important moment in Australia’s history.
Thinking about this anniversary and Australians travelling to Turkey, reminded me about the changes we have made
to simplify what you need to do if planning a trip overseas.
You can now travel outside Australia for up to 19 weeks before your Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) is
cancelled. Remember to contact us if you’re planning on travelling for longer than six weeks though so we can
discuss how your quarterly supplements might be affected.
There’s more information about travelling overseas, including tips on what to do before you travel, on our website at
humanservices.gov.au/goingoverseas and also at humanservices.gov.au/paymentsoverseas
While you’re there, it’s also a good idea to register for our online services (if you don’t already have an account) so you
can quickly and easily manage your business. Registering an online account means you can take advantage of our
Express Plus mobile apps, which is great if like me you prefer using a tablet or mobile device. You can read more about
registering online at humanservices.gov.au/register
Several other changes to the CSHC have come into effect, including rules around account-based income streams. I
encourage you to read the article on page 9 and visit humanservices.gov.au/seniorshealthcard
I also want to remind you that several Budget changes also come into effect this year. One of the main changes that
could affect you is that from 1 January 2015, the Energy Supplement (formerly the Clean Energy Supplement) will be
paid and remain fixed at the 20 September 2014 payment rate.
I hope this information helps to clarify some of the recent and upcoming changes.
All the best,
P.S. It would be great to keep in touch via my Facebook page at facebook.com/officialhankjongen
RATES
VALID FROM 20 MARCH TO 30 JUNE 2015
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 each
$782.20
$1,179.20
$589.60
$782.20
$63.90
$96.40
$48.20
$63.90
Maximum basic rate
1
Maximum pension supplement
Energy Supplement
$14.10
$21.20
$10.60
$14.10
TOTAL
$860.20
$1,296.80
$648.40
$860.20
Rent Assistance2
Per fortnight
Per fortnight
Per fortnight
Per fortnight each
Maximum rate
$128.40
$120.80
$120.80
$128.40
You will be eligible for the maximum rate of
rent assistance if your fortnightly rent is more
than
$285.20
$346.47
$346.47
$285.20
You will not be eligible for rent assistance if
your fortnightly rent is less than
$114.00
$185.40
$185.40
$114.00
Allowable Income1a
Per fortnight
Combined
Combined
Combined
Full pension
up to $160.00
up to $284.00
up to $284.00
up to $284.00
Part pension
less than
$1,880.40
less than
$2,877.60
less than $2,877.60
less than
$3,724.80
Allowable Assets3
Single
Combined
Combined
Combined
Full pension—Home owner
$202,000
$286,500
$286,500
$286,500
Full pension—Non-home owner
$348,500
$433,000
$433,000
$433,000
Part pension—Home owner
less than $775,500
less than $922,000
less than
$1,151,500
less than
$1,298,000
less than $1,433,500
Part pension—Non-home owner
less than
$1,151,500
less than
$1,298,000
Deeming Rates and Thresholds
Single
Combined
Combined
Combined
Threshold
$48,000
$79,600
$79,600
$79,600
Rate below threshold
1.75%
1.75%
1.75%
1.75%
Rate above threshold
3.25%
3.25%
3.25%
3.25%
Commonwealth Seniors Health
Card (CSHC)
Single
Combined
Combined
Combined
Income limit (per annum)4
$51,500
$82,400
$82,400
$103,000
Energy Supplement (per annum)
$366.60
$551.20
$275.60
$366.60 each
Seniors Supplement (per annum)6
$894.40
$1,346.80
$673.40
$894.40 each
5
Pension Bonus Scheme
Maximum Rates
Indexed 20 March and 20
September
SINGLE
PARTNERED
(each)
Maximum Bonus after Year 1
$1,966.20
$1,486.20
Maximum Bonus after Year 2
$7,864.80
$5,944.80
Maximum Bonus after Year 3
$17,695.80
$13,375.80
Maximum Bonus after Year 4
$31,459.20
$23,779.10
Maximum Bonus after Year 5
$49,155.00
$37,154.90
less than $1,580,000
Registration in the Pension Bonus Scheme* is
limited to those who met the age and residence
requirements for Age Pension before 20 September
2009 and lodged an application to register prior to 1
July 2014. *If you are receiving or have received
Age Pension, you are not eligible for a Pension
Bonus.
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 each
Maximum rate
$711.70
$1,149.60
$574.80
$711.70
Energy Supplement
$14.10
$21.20
$10.60
$14.10
Total
$725.80
$1,170.80
$585.40
$725.80
Allowable Income
Per fortnight
Combined
Combined
Combined
Full pension
up to $160.00
up to $284.00
up to $284.00
up to $284.00
Part pension
less than $1,974.50
less than
$3,211.00
less than
$3,211.00
less than
$3,913.00
Allowable Assets
Single
Combined
Combined
Combined
Full pension—Home owner
$202,000
$286,500
$286,500
$286,500
Full Pension—Non-home owner
$348,500
$433,000
$433,000
$433,000
Part Pension—Home owner
less than
$686,000
less than $1,067,500
less than $1,067,500
less than
$1,254,500
Part Pension—Non-home owner
less than
$832,500
less than $1,214,000
less than $1,214,000
less than
$1,401,000
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 Consumer Price Index only.
These figures are a guide only. Effective 20 March 2015 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. These limits may be
higher if Rent Assistance is paid with your pension. 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 $6500. 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 is 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 $1000 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. These limits may be higher if Rent Assistance is paid with your pension.
4. Income test for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) includes adjusted taxable income plus deemed income from account-based income streams.
The current account balance of an account-based income stream is subject to deeming where it is:
• purchased or changed on or after 1 January 2015
• owned by someone granted CSHC on or after 1 January 2015
• owned by a card holder’s partner who is aged 60 or more.
5. The Energy Supplement for CSHC holders is paid quarterly. To calculate the quarterly amount, obtain the daily rate of the supplement by dividing the annual
amount by 364. The quarterly amount is then calculated by multiplying the daily rate by the number of days the supplement is payable in that quarter.
6. As part of the 2014–15 Budget, the Seniors Supplement for CSHC holders will no longer be paid. This is subject to the passage of legislation. CSHC holders
will continue to receive Seniors Supplement each quarter until this legislation is passed.
Note: Absences from Australia may affect your payments. If you are planning on travelling outside Australia and would like information as to how this may affect your
payment then please contact the Department of Human Services on 132 300.
For more information call 132 300.
CONTACTS
SELF SERVICE OPTIONS
There are several ways you can manage your business with us, including:
• Online account—create a myGov account at my.gov.au with one username and password to access your
Centrelink and Medicare accounts online and do things like claim a payment or concession card, view your claims
history and receive online letters.
• Express Plus Centrelink mobile app—if you have online access to your Centrelink account and have level 3
access, you can use the Express Plus Centrelink mobile 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 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
You can call us between 8 am and 5 pm, Monday to Friday, to talk to us about:
Older Australians ............................................................ 132 300
Age Pension, deeming, income and assets tests, Financial Information Service, Pension Bonus Scheme and Commonwealth
Seniors Health Card.
International Services ...................................................... 131 673
Pensions paid outside Australia, claiming pensions from other countries, pensions paid under International Agreements.
Disabilities, Sickness and Carers .................................... 132 717
Languages other than English ....................................... 131 202
Feedback and complaints ................... Freecall™ 1800 132 468
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.
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
Call 133 254 or Freecall™ 1800 555 254
from regional Australia. Go to dva.gov.au
Department of Social Services
Call 1300 653 227 (call rates from landline and mobile providers may vary. Please check with your current service provider). Go to
dss.gov.au
My Aged Care
Freecall™ 1800 200 422. Go to myagedcare.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 phone are free. Calls from public and
mobile phones may be timed and charged at a higher rate.
News for Seniors advertising enquiries
Contact: dtb! Advertising
Email: newsforseniors@dtb.com.au
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.
News for Seniors Editor
Email: editornfs@humanservices.gov.au
Write: PO Box 7788, Canberra BC ACT 2610
RT010.1503