Supporting seniors in Central Victoria

I RECENTLY had the pleasure of unveiling the updated Studio 1 for Phoenix FM.

The story of Phoenix FM is one of hard work, with the kernel of an idea for a community access station for Bendigo growing into 150 hours of programming every week.

What makes Phoenix FM so special is that it is a place to share ideas and aspirations, give local musicians and artists their first big break, and celebrate everything that makes Bendigo the best place to live.

With programs that are made in Bendigo, about Bendigo, and for Bendigo. Whilst also having Senior’s specific programs such as Get Out Those Old Records, Rock for Seniors, Vintage Nostalgia and many more all hosted on 106.7 FM.

But, of course, none of this would be possible without the people who make it all happen, both on and off the air.

Phoenix FM has an incredible team of volunteers. I’m proud of the hardworking volunteers who have made Phoenix FM what it is today, and I’m proud that the Victorian State Government gets to play a small part in supporting their success.

In 2024, Phoenix FM received a $50,000 grant from the State Government to help them continue to deliver their fantastic broadcasting to the local community by upgrading their facilities.

This grant has supported the station to fund a $76,000 upgrade to their Studio 1.

This support will boost community broadcasting in Central Victoria and help to spread the inspiring and varied experiences of the Bendigo community.

Phoenix FM are a trusted local community radio station, and I am pleased our Victorian Labor Government have been able to support their continued effort.

I am also proud of the other Victorian Government initiatives that are committed to supporting seniors in our community such as the Victorian Seniors Card.

The Seniors Card encourages people to keep active and engaged in the community by providing incentives and making it more affordable to get out and about. To be eligible for the card, you must:

• Be 60 years of age or older;

• Work less than 35 hours per week in paid employment; and

• Be a permanent resident of Australia, residing in Victoria.

Seniors Card holders receive numerous benefits, including discounts from over 4000 participating businesses across Victoria.

To apply for a Seniors Card, submit an application online at seniorsonline.vic.gov.au or contact my office for assistance.

Victorian Seniors Card holders are also eligible for a Seniors myki, which gives a 50 per cent discount on public transport, free weekend travel and access to free off-peak travel vouchers each year.

More information about the Seniors myki can be found at ptv.vic.gov.au/tickets/myki/concessions-and-free-travel/seniors.

The Victorian Veterans Card is also available, honouring the service of our past members of the Australian Defence Forces. This card provides several different entitlements and concessions such as:

• $100 off light vehicle rego

• free trailer and caravan rego

• free marine licence

• fishing licence exemption

• free transport on Anzac and Remembrance Days

• veteran employment programs

More information about the Victorian Veterans Cars can be found at service.vic.gov.au/services/veterans-card-victoria.

Please feel welcome to contact my office if you would like further information about any of the above initiatives or if I can assist you with any State Government information.

Jacinta Allan MP

Member for Bendigo East