Pension questions answered in Post
15 September 2009 Pensioners in Jagajaga will receive letters about the upcoming changes to pension payments over the coming week, Member for Jagajaga Jenny Macklin has said. Centrelink is currently sending letters to 3.3 million Australian pensioners to explain how their payments will change from 20 September, under the Australian Government's Secure and Sustainable Pension Reform.
From 20 September, single pensioners on the maximum rate will receive a total increase of $70.83 per fortnight, bringing their total pension to $671.90.
Couple pensioners combined on the maximum rate will receive an increase of $29.93 per fortnight, taking their payment up to $1,013.
This increase includes the rise announced in the May Budget, plus regular indexation.
"These are the most significant reforms to the pension since it was introduced 100 years ago," Ms Macklin said.
"These pension reforms will improve the adequacy of the pension, make its operation simpler, and secure its sustainability into the future,"
"Local pensioners have been eagerly waiting to find out how they will benefit from the changes,"
"It is important that every pensioner reads their letter carefully to understand how their payments will change after 20 September,"
"The Centrelink letters will outline in detail the payment changes for each individual pensioner,"
"The payment changes will be automatic and will be paid to pensioners in the fortnight beginning 20 September." Ms Macklin said.
Ms Macklin said the Secure and Sustainable Pension Reform will provide much needed support to pensioners across the local community and ensure that the pension system provides for those in need into the future.
The Department of Veterans Affairs will contact veterans separately.
Full details of the changes to rates and thresholds are available at www.australia.gov.au/pensions
Total pension payments from 20 September 2009
(full rate, per fortnight)
|