FEARS from seniors that pensioner concessions would be cut in NSW have been allayed after the State Government committed to continuing the program.
The move follows the Federal Government’s decision to axe the National Partnership agreement which saw $450 million over four years being withdrawn for pensioner and seniors concessions from 1 July this year.
Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams said with so many seniors and pensioners living on the Mid North Coast there was a heightened concern that their standard of living would be impacted by the cuts.
“In what was seen as a cruel blow to those groups in our community who can least afford it, funding for discounted public transport fares, cheaper energy and water bills, council rates and vehicle registration would have been targeted,” Mrs Williams said.
“I have had a number of local seniors complaining to me about the impact the cuts would have on their livelihood.
“Imagine the ‘bill shock’ that would have been created if these concessions were not extended.
“The NSW Government will contribute an additional $107 million in the State Budget towards concessions for 2014/15.
“We understand the cost of living pressures seniors face and we as a government are determined to ensure they are not adversely affected by the Commonwealth’s decision to cut the concessions.”
