Benefits boosted to appease cost of living calamity

FEDERAL member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters stopped by the Long Gully Neighbourhood Centre recently to promote the Federal Government’s increase to the age pension and other payments, which took effect on Friday 20 March.

As part of the changes, aged pensioners, disability support pensioners and carers will receive around $22.20 extra in their fortnightly payments.

Parenting as well as ABSTUDY recipients aged 22 years and over, and rent assistance payment recipients will also see an increase in their allowances.

Ms Chesters said the increases to payments will ensure that locals receiving support are able to navigate cost of living pressures.

“Australia’s social security system is a safety net that is continually strengthened and improved to support all vulnerable Australians,” she said.

“The indexation increase is putting more money into the hip pockets of local pensioners who rely on the social security system for support, and that’s a good thing.

“Increasing rent assistance and support through home care packages is also how our Government is making sure all older Australians live their twilight years in dignity.”

Minister for Social Services Tanya Plibersek said over five million Aussies should expect to see a rise in their payments.

“We’ll continue to make sure the system is there to support those who need it most, ensuring that everyone can make ends meet and no one gets left behind,” she said.

The complete list of payments to increase can be found at dss.gov.au.