Self-funded? You may still be eligible for concessions
Just because you don’t receive a pension, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some of the benefits of being a senior.
Many older Australians assume that if they are not receiving the Age Pension, they’re not entitled to government concessions and discounts.
But that’s far from the truth. Even if you’re a fully self-funded retiree, you may be eligible for several valuable benefits – and it’s well worth your time to find out what they are.
From reduced utility bills and cheaper public transport to discounts on council rates, vehicle registration, and healthcare, a wide range of state, territory, and federal concessions are available.
The key is knowing which cards and criteria apply to your circumstances.
A common misconception is that concessions are only for Age Pension recipients holding a Pensioner Concession Card. In fact, many discounts are also available to holders of the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) – which is designed specifically for self-funded retirees who meet income thresholds, even if they’re not receiving any pension payments.
National Seniors Australia (NSA) has long advocated for a fairer and more consistent concessions system. NSA argues that self-funded retirees, who have worked and saved throughout their lives, often miss out on assistance despite facing many of the same cost-of-living pressures as pensioners.
As part of an ongoing campaign for fairer concessions, NSA is lobbying governments to harmonise benefits across states and territories and ensure that those who don’t receive the Age Pension are not unfairly excluded from relief measures.
“The current system is fragmented, inconsistent, and in many cases outdated,” NSA chief executive officer, Chris Grice, says.
“We believe all older Australians should have equitable access to support, especially during a time when rising living costs are hitting fixed-income households hard.”
To help older Australians better understand their entitlements, NSA has developed a free online Concessions Calculator.
This user-friendly tool allows you to enter your location and personal situation to identify the range of concessions you may be eligible for. It covers government and non-government concessions across different states and territories, reflecting the many schemes and cards in circulation.
For example, in some jurisdictions, the CSHC can entitle holders to cheaper electricity and gas bills, discounted prescription medicines, bulk-billed doctor visits, and even reduced fees for car registration and driver’s licences.
Local councils in some areas also offer reduced rates for seniors, and many cultural institutions, transport providers, and retailers extend their own discounts to older customers regardless of pension status.
The message is simple: don’t assume you’re missing out just because you’re self-funded.
Take a few minutes to check what’s available to you, as it could make a real difference to your budget. With the cost of living continuing to rise, every discount matters.
NSA continues to lead the charge in making sure older Australians are treated fairly and with respect, whether they rely on the pension or not. As Chris puts it, “You’ve done the hard work – now let’s make sure you get the support you deserve.”
For more information about NSA or to become a member, visit nationalseniors.com.au or call 1300 76 50 50.
