Shoalhaven City Councillor Serena Copley has called on the NSW Government to immediately double the pensioner concession rebate to $500 to support local seniors across the Shoalhaven community pay their rates.
Currently a $250 pensioner concession rebate is available to subsidise local rates. Clr Copley said this rebate has not increased in 13 years despite significant increases in rates and charges over that period.
Councillor Copley also called for a doubling of the water rates and charges rebate from $87.50 to $175.
“It is time that the NSW Government address the inadequate level of financial support available to pensioners,” Clr Copley said.
“With significant cost of living challenges facing our local community, it is essential that the NSW Government do all they can to assist, and it is time for a significant increase in the pensioner concession rebate,” she said.
“With Council already covering 45 per cent of the costs of the rebates, we do our fair share. It is important that the NSW Government steps up, doubles the rebates and covers the entire cost!
Currently the pensioner concession rebate is available to holders of pensioner concession cards, DVA Gold Cards (TPI and EDA) and ward widow/ers entitled to DVA income support. With a significant elderly and veteran population in the Shoalhaven, so many would benefit from this increase.
Councillor Copley will be moving a Notice of Motion at the forthcoming Council meeting calling on the NSW Government to double support available to local pensioners and is seeking support from all Councillors and the two local State Members.
“This is above politics, it is simply the right thing to do and I am hoping to get support from every Councillor so we can speak with a united voice to the Government that our community needs help!”
