Offset rising costs with the WA Seniors Card program
Inflation, supply chain disruptions and record fuel prices have increased the cost of goods and services across the board. Whilst the unavoidable, rising cost of living is impacting many Australians, it’s seniors who are being hit the hardest.
Recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics highlighted the disparity, with working household living costs increasing by 2.6% compared to 3.4% for age pension households. Michelle Marquardt, Head of Prices Statistics at the ABS attributed grocery prices as the main culprit affecting older Australians, followed by rising household costs. “These households were also more affected by increases in housing costs, as they have relatively higher expenditure levels on utilities, maintenance and repair, and property rates,” Marquardt said.
Lucky for WA seniors aged 64 years or older, a little relief is available in the form of the WA Seniors Card program. Offering a range of savings, we’ve been recommending it to all eligible clients to help offset the impact of recent price increases.
WA Seniors Card Benefits
- Discounts & Special Offers across a range of household, entertainment, shopping and wellbeing businesses
- State Government rebate on local government rates
- State Government rebate on water service charges
- Free off-peak travel and concession rates at all other times on Transperth
- Access to members-only monthly competitions
Program Eligibility Requirements
To be considered eligible for the WA Seniors Card program, you need to be:
- Aged 64 years or above
- An Australian Citizen or hold an Australian Permanent Resident Visa (temporary immigration visa holders are not eligible)
- Reside in WA or be present in WA for more than half the year and not have a permanent residence outside of WA
- Work less than 25 hours per week:
- If you are employed on a casual or seasonal basis, your working hours from the last 12-month period will be used to determine your average working hours.
- If you are retiring from full time work and are no longer working, you are considered eligible the day after your retirement.
- If you are retiring from full time work and reducing to part-time work, then your current part-time hours will be used to determine whether you meet eligibility.
If you meet the above conditions and wish to pursue for the WA Seniors Card program, we advise that you read the full terms and conditions before applying for your card.
Find more information or register for a card here.