News For Seniors 091

Read about
Ita Buttroses
personal experience
with macular
degeneration
Seniors
News
FOR
ISSUE 91 | JULY 2013
A publication offering information, guidance and inspiration to Australian senior citizens
Federal Budget 201314
myGovnew online service
Tax time tips for seniors
Investment scams
Superannuation investments
NEWS FOR SENIORS | ISSUE 91 2
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 bumper
Its that time of year again!
The 201314 Federal
Budget follows through on
allocations from last year
to address aged care reform
in Australia.
Read more about whats in
this years budget for you on
pages 8 and 9.
Scammers and savers
Scammers arent just
becoming more prolic,
theyre becoming more
sophisticated. This means it
has become even harder to
discern whether or not youre
looking at the real deal.
Read about Malcolms 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 sufered by any person
because they rely in any way on
it. You should contact your local
Department of Human Services
ofce or Department of Veterans
Afairs state ofce 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 afect you.
News for Seniors advertising enquiries
Contact: CouchCreative
Email: sales@couchcreative.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 ofered or provided by advertisers.
20
Cover image
2013 Australian of the Year,
Ita Buttrose.
humanservices.gov.au 3
TECHNOLOGY
14
HEALTH
18
If its fnancial information
youre afertax time tips
(page 7), understanding
your superannuation
(page 22) or helpful tips for
retirement (page 24)this
is the issue for you.
Retirement and
beyond
To work or not to work... for
some its 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 fnd 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 fgures will be
published in the next printed
issue of News for Seniors.
LIFESTYLE
20
NEWS
7
CONCESSIONS
25
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.
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 ffh 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 201314 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
years budget. It includes a
program to support pensioners
over age pension age who
want to downsize their home,
without it immediately
afecting 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 signifcant 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 governments 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.
Were also now making it
easier for older Australians
to connect with Centrelink
through the Express Plus
Seniors smart phone app. Ive
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
nancial stress.
Our very own fnancial
ofcers are on hand to ofer
you expert information
through the governments free
and confdential 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
fnancial future.
I trust you will fnd 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 milestoneour 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 hes
70 years old?
Thats irrelevant! Peter
says. His colleagues at
Oakleigh agree.
Peter joined us as a
Multicultural Service Ofcer
in 1997, says Melissa Young,
Region Manager for Eastern
Victorian. Put simply, hes
a gem.
When Peter speaks to people,
he deals from the heart.
He is wise, fair, and makes
everyone feel at home.
Its not so much his age
as his manner, adds
Chris Cahill, Program
Manager. All our ocers look
up to his example.
Thats not to say that Peters
experience doesnt come
in handy.
Born in the Netherlands,
Peter came to Australia on a
troop ship with his family in
1955. He worked as a ftter
and turner for 20 years before
standing for the Victorian
Parliament in 1979an
election he assured his wife
he simply couldnt 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 ofen asked to share
his story with new arrivals,
like the students at the
nearby multicultural
services centre. Hes always
proud to do so.
I dont make judgments
about people. Whether they
come by boat, plane or ship,
it doesnt 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 hell think about
it in another 30 years.
Dealing from the heart
FEATURE | MATURE AGED WORKERSPETER 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 WORKERSPRODUCTIVE AGEING CENTRE
The golden age of employment
More 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. Were living
longer and having children
later. Were also more likely
to be supporting grown-up
children or elderly parents
at home. For purely fnancial
reasons, it ofen makes sense
to stay in work.
Its 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 agging some
of the barriers that older
Australians face.
Age discrimination in
the workforce remains a
signicant concern according
to two-thirds of older workers
in a recent PAC survey.
Care-giving responsibilities,
inexible workplaces and
a lack of access to training
can also exclude senior
workers. This has smart
employers thinking.
Attitudes dont change
overnight, but there is
defnitely 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 exible hours
and negotiating a sensible
transition plan can benet
all sides.
The PAC was jointly
established by National
Seniors Australia, one
of the worlds largest
advocacy groups for seniors,
and the Department of
Health and Ageing. For
more information visit
productiveageing.com.au or
nationalseniors.com.au
To fnd 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.
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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 dont need a paper copy to lodge your income tax return if you
use e-tax or lodge via an agent. Improved self service channels ofer 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 201213:
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 ofset 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 Ofce 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 afairs.
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 fnd 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 beneft from
the new technology and enhanced training.
The training will also address concerns raised
by seniors about cyber security and cyber
safetyhow to identify fraud and scams
online. It will also ensure that seniors will
have more opportunities to beneft 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 afer that date.
More info: This change will make the system
fairer as people with similar levels of fnancial
assets will be treated equally. Under the new
rules, the deeming rates are applied to the
combined value of a persons fnancial 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
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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 fnishes 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 Australiansnot
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 afected 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 deals
Investment scams are ofen so professional, slick and believable that
its 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 oer from someone you trust.
There are three main types of
investment scams.
The ofer is totally fctitious and does
not exist.
The ofer exists but the money you
give the scammer is not going towards
that investment.
The ofer is falsely representative of a
well-known investment company.
In all cases your money goes straight into the
scammers bank account and not towards any
real investment.
Scammers will try to tempt you by using
phrases like tax free benefts, inside
information and guaranteed returns.
Dont buy into this. Do your own research.
Always ask the person oering
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 Commissions
(ASIC) list of unlicensed overseas companies at
moneysmart.gov.au or call 1300 300 630.
If youre 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 benets.
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Malcolms true story
I received a call from a man
claiming he was a broker from the
Kensington Group. He oered 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 fnally 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.
Afer 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
afer this amount of harassment that they
were defnitely scammers.
I was very glad I had not signed up to a deal
with the Kensington Group as I found their
name on ASICs 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.
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NEWS | CHANGES
Help to get ready
for digital TV
By the end of 2013 analog TV signals
will be switched o 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 defnition 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 dont 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 youre 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
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Standard
Trusts and companies
annual review
The 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.
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
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Unlimited overseas medical expenses cover
(Worldwide plans only)
Domestic and International cover, choose
from one trip or annual policies
Selected 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
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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
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Extra cash with the Seniors Accident Cash Plan
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Visit www.seniors.com.au/accident today.
Apply by 30th June 2013 and get your
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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
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Premiums start from $8.95 month and we pay in addition
to any other cover you may have. Benefits include:
Serious Accident benefit - $75,000
Broken Bones benefit up to $15,000
Dislocation benefit up to $3,000 for a range of bone dislocations
Home Assistance benefit up to $300 per week for up to 13 weeks
Extra Cash benefit up to $125 per day for up to 30 days
Bag Snatching benefit $500 for any level of cover
Emergency Transport benefit $250 for any level of cover
Access to the Family Care SOS 24/7 referral service
TECHNOLOGY | AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT ONLINE SERVICES
Whether youre 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
profle, he says, I found that
very useful.
Peter isnt 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 Ive 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. Its like having
your pin numbers for the
bank. I think its up there
with banking online, says
Lionel. You can just fnd
out in a moment how things
are going.
Express Plus apps, visit
humanservices.gov.au/
expressplus
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having fun there are so many reasons why you should
get online. WorkVentures is a non-proft organisation
that has helped over 40,000 people get started with
computers, and wed love to help you.
Call 1800 112 205 or go to
www.workventures.com.au/seniors
For 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 warranty
l 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
Offce 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
Its 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 youll be able to
personalise your account by selecting the online
services you want to link to, including:
Medicarelodge a claim, request a card,
update your bank and personal details and view
your information
National eHealth Record Systemget your
personal eHealth record to help better manage
your health
Centrelinkclaim a payment, report and
update your details, view your information,
request a document, replacement card and more
Child Supportcheck when your payments
are due, view your payment history, update your
details and more
Department of Veterans Affairsview your
payments and claims, apply for entitlements,
update your details and more
Every time you sign in, youll have all of your
linked services at your fngertips.
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
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INTERNET PLANS MADE SIMPLE!
Go online now to find the best plan for you:
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Or contact us with any questions you may have:
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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 systemsotherwise
known as cyberspaceworking away in the
background to make it possible.
Finerday is a UK-founded social networking
site similar to Facebook, specifcally catering
to older Australians who like to keep in
touch with family and genuine friends. Its
unpretentious, secure and simple to use and
has really taken of in Australia since its
launch a couple of years ago.
Benetas Colton Close in Victoria was the frst
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
its 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 recipients secure inbox.
To sign up, go to finerday.com/register
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FREE
*
Hearing Aids
for Pensioners.
AudioClinic is accredited to
provide FREE* hearing aids to
eligible Pensioners and Veterans.
Special benets may also be
available for self-funded retirees
and people still working.
We offer FREE
^
hearing check-ups
at over 230 convenient locations.
Dont wait, ll 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 Australias 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 indenite period. AudioClinic Australia may share your information with afliates,
contractors or service providers who act on our behalf, are subject to condentiality agreements and will only use that information for the purposes for
which we provide it. Except where you are otherwise notied, 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
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Suburb
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Mobile
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@

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
couldnt imagine not being
able to read again.
Three of her fathers
siblingsItas aunt and
two of her uncleswere
also afected by macular
degeneration (MD).
One thing Ive 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 persons risk of
MD by three to four times and
can cause blindness.
Julie Heraghty, Chief
Executive Ofcer of the
Macular Disease Foundation
Australia, says You cant 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 MD.
If you notice any sudden
changes in your vision,
see your optometrist or
ophthalmologist immediately.
Dont think youre just getting
older, experiencing eye strain
or feeling tired.
Its 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
doesnt 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 degeneration
2013 Australian of the Year, Ita Buttrose AO
OBE, wants to stop Australians going blind.
For me its personal. I was terribly upset
when my late father told me he had macular
degeneration, says Ita.
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:
difculty with reading
straight lines appearing wavy or bent
dark patches or empty spaces in the centre of your vision
difculty distinguishing faces.
No more excuses for putting o
a hearing check-up
Since he started wearing a hearing aid, Dr John DArcy
is hearing better than he has in years.
Its taken away the fatigue
of listening. I dont have to
struggle hard to appreciate
what people are saying.
Thats the biggest thing! says
Dr John, the Ambassador for
Australian Hearing.
Consider your hearing as
you do having your blood
pressure checkedas a
priority. Doing something
about your hearing is easy.
The Australian Government
Hearing Services Program
provides a range of hearing
services and makes it
afordable for eligible seniors.
People should also remember
that having a hearing check
isnt just about fnding 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 fnd the best
strategy to help improve your
overall hearing.
To fnd out if youre
eligible for the Hearing
Services Program, visit
health.gov.au/hear or call
Freecall 1800 500 726.
Australian Hearing visit
hearing.com.au or call
your local hearing centre on
131 797 to nd out contact
details of your nearest
Australian Hearing centre.

Please send me a copy of Destination Tasmania 2013-2014
Full Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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LIFESTYLE | YOUR RETIREMENT EXPERIENCE
Malcolm Brown
A 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 Waleswhere
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
aforded 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 perspectiveas he describes it, following
the explorers, gold-seekers, pastoralists, bushrangers,
convicts and soldiers in the frst penetration into
the interior.
Along the way, Malcolm raised more than $10 000 for
two Sydney childrens hospitals.
It all began when a good friend, Franca Arena, said she
would give me a dollar a kilometre for the Childrens
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 Malcolms online blog...
A long walk down memory lane
Published: December 24, 2012
For myself, having done 40 years in
metropolitan journalism, it is to the bush I
must return, back to the goldelds 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 Heralds Broadway building. It is on that
road that I have slaved and wept.
Wandering in explorers footsteps
Published: December 30, 2012
Its 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 frst 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
Im 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 cofee.
Dubbo or bust:
the road to Cabonne Shire
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 fve
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 childrens 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
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 Grifth,
stopped for a chat, a
lemonade and recollections
of the Don Mackay case.
Dubbo or bust: the
Wellington Valley
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 fve
kilometres. I have protested
that John Oxleyand
Charles Sturt who followed
himnever had such
luxuries. But they would
have enjoyed it had it been
available, she said.
Dubbo or bust: the
Mitchell Highway
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 ferce north-westerly
wind cooling my face but
spelling potential disaster
for others.
Dubbo or bust: the
nal stretch
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
Journey over, I arrived at the
Dubbo cenotaph at 2.45 pm
on Wednesday afer covering
what one odometer reading
calculated as 409 kilometres
from Martin Place.
Search for Malcolm Brown
on smh.com.au to read
Malcolms blog.
Superannuation
investments
and turning age
pension age
When you turn age pension
age your superannuation
investments will be included
in the assets test and deemed
under the income test.
If youre 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 its
your age and not your payment
type that determines this.
Superannuation investments
arent included in the means
test if theyre 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 partners will not be
counted until they reach age
pension age.
Our Financial Information
Service (FIS) can help you
understand superannuation
investments. FIS ofcers are
available to assist you make
informed fnancial decisions.
For more information go to
humanservices.gov.au/fis
or call 132 300.
Cairns
& Great Barrier
Reef*
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Resort Relaxation*
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Adelaide
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$899pp $899pp
from from
from from
Alice
& The Rock*
$1149pp $1149pp
from from
Brisbane
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$1199pp $1199pp
from from
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$1099pp $1099pp
from from
P: 1300 30 55 33 P: 1300 30 55 33
There are more great
value holidays in our
brochure.
Order yours today!
E: reservations@hsptravel.com.au E: reservations@hsptravel.com.au
Package Inclusions:
Return airport transfers
5 nights quality
accommodation
Breakfast daily
3 x lunches or dinners
3 or 4 x day tours
* Bonus Oer: Buy one
extra night, get another
night free
(including breakfast)
Thinking of your next
getaway?
Weve got plenty
of holiday options
for you!
Thinking of your next
getaway?
Weve got plenty
of 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.au www.hsptravel.com.au
Australias Best Value Senior 5 Night Holidays!
Australias Best Value Senior 5 Night Holidays!
Tips to keep your nances on track
LIFESTYLE | YOUR MONEY
Here are some helpful nancial
tips to help you plan for a
better retirement.
Look at your current fnancial 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 fnances 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 nances
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 ofers and check
Scamwatch scamwatch.gov.au and/or
your state/territory Ofce of Fair Trading.
Not doing anythingfailing to plan is
planning to fail.
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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.
BOMBORAS ALL
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PACKAGES INCLUDE
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Gold Coast
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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.
Its 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 Ofce.
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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 afected.
For more information visit
humanservices.gov.au/seniorshealthcard
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NEWS | LETTERS
Hank JongenEditor News for Seniors
Mail: PO Box 7788 Canberra BC ACT 2610
Email: editornfs@humanservices.gov.au
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 diferent.
From tax time tips to
information about scams and
superannuationweve tried
to pack as much in here as
possible to tackle the issues
that mean the most to you.
Its a busy time of year
for our call centres with
Federal Budget initiatives
being rolled out along with
the end of the fnancial year,
so I hope you havent 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.
Ive been getting a lot of
mail about concession
cards and their oferings
interstate. It can be very
confusing fguring out what
cards can be used where
and for what concessions.
There is no short answer,
as the states/territories are
vastly diferent. 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 Editor
Dear Editor,
I would like some information regarding gifing 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 aected if you gif
assets worth more than the
allowable gifing amount.
The gifing rules are:
there is an allowable gifing
amount for a single person
or a couple of $10 000 in a
single nancial year, and
there is an allowable gifing
amount for a single person
or a couple of $30 000 over
a ve year rolling period.
The rolling ve year period
is the current nancial
year plus the previous four
nancial 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 ocer.
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 benefts 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 dont have
expensive machines but still
maintain a high standard of
muscular strength and tness
despite debilitating arthritis
in my shoulders, knees
and spine.
My ftness 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
doesnt 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 benets
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 each
Maximum basic rate
1
$733.70 $1,106.20 $553.10 $733.70
Maximum pension supplement $61.20 $92.20 $46.10 $61.20
Clean Energy Supplement $13.50 $20.40 $10.20 $13.50
TOTAL $808.40 $1,218.80 $609.40 $808.40
Rent Assistance
2
Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight each
Maximum rate Rent Assistance $123.00 $115.60 $115.60 $123.00
Maximum payment if rent above $273.20 $331.73 $331.73 $273.20
No payment if rent below $109.20 $177.60 $177.60 $109.20
Allowable Income
1a
Per fortnight Combined Combined Combined
Full pension up to $156.00 up to $276.00 up to $276.00 up to $276.00
Part pension less than
$1,772.80
less than
$2,713.60
less than
$2,713.60
less than
$3,509.60
Allowable Assets
3
Single Combined Combined Combined
Full pensionHome owner $196,750 $279,000 $279,000 $279,000
Full pensionNon-home owner $339,250 $421,500 $421,500 $421,500
Part pensionHome owner less than
$735,750
less than
$1,092,000
less than
$1,092,000
less than
$1,357,000
Part pensionNon-home owner less than
$878,250
less than
$1,234,500
less than
$1,234,500
less than
$1,499,500
Deeming Rates and Thresholds Single Combined Combined Combined
Threshold $46,600 $77,400 $77,400 $77,400
Rate 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 each
Clean 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 aect them.
*If you are receiving or have received
Age Pension, you are not eligible for a
Pension Bonus.
Maximum Bonus afer 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 each
Maximum rate $681.30 $1,100.40 $550.20 $681.30
Clean Energy Supplement $13.50 $20.40 $10.20 $13.50
Total $694.80 $1,120.80 $560.40 $694.80
Allowable Income Per fortnight Combined Combined Combined
Full pension up to $156.00 up to $276.00 up to $276.00 up to $276.00
Part pension less than
$1,893.00
less than
$3,078.00
less than
$3,078.00
less than
$3,750.00
Allowable Assets Single Combined Combined Combined
Full pensionHome owner $196,750 $279,000 $279,000 $279,000
Full PensionNon-home owner $339,250 $421,500 $421,500 $421,500
Part PensionHome owner less than
$660,000
less than
$1,026,500
less than
$1,026,500
less than
$1,205,500
Part PensionNon-home
owner
less than
$802,500
less than
$1,169,000
less than
$1,169,000
less than
$1,348,000
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 Beneft 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 persons 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 afect your payments.
If you are planning on travelling outside Australia and
would like information on how this may afect 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 beneft 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 Beneft Amount.
If cover ends, no beneft is payable and there is no refund of premiums after the cooling of period.
This is general advice only. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement to ensure the product suits your needs available by
calling 1300738573. This information is provided by Australian Seniors Insurance Agency Pty Ltd ABN48097746391 (AR270983),
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 quote
Lines 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 $15,000
2
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 pack
If 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!

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As chosen by Australians from all walks of life
Title Mr Mrs Miss Ms Other
First name(s)
Last name
Date of birth
D

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Y

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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 today
With Final Expenses Insurance from
$3.41 per fortnight
1
you can relax
and concentrate on getting the
most out of your retirement.
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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 Servicescreate 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 appif
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 servicecall
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 nd out more about online
services at humanservices.gov.au/
selfservice
Key Human Services contacts
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.
To speak to us in languages
other than English ................................................ 131 202
Disabilities, Sickness and Carers ....................... 132 717
Feedback and complaints .........Freecall 1800 132 468
To 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 fxed 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 protectionwe make it our business to
ofer you benefts 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, fnancial 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 ofer low-premium travel insurance ofering
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 online
purchases.
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% o our standard premiums*
Monthly payments at no additional charge*
Combined policy 10% discount*
Home & Contents
Save
up to 40%*
on your home
& contents
insurance.
13 13 43
Our car insurance policies are easy to understand.
We oer a great range of benefts and savings, including:
Lower car insurance premiums, means savings for you
Monthly premiums at no extra charge
No forms to fll in, ever
Motor Vehicle Insurance
Up to 10%
discount when
you combine
with home &/or
contents.
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Savings of up to 40% o our standard premiums*
Monthly payments at no additional charge*
Combined policy 10% discount
Plus many more benefts including competitive
premiums for Landlords Insurance.
SAVE with the
Over 50s Insurance
Specialist.
13 13 43
ASIA 8010 NFS PressAd_275x150mm_02.indd 1 27/11/12 9:55 AM
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