Pensioners in regional WA will continue to benefit from the Country Age Pension Fuel Card, thanks to a further investment of $140.1 million over the next four years through Royalties for Regions.
Member for the Mining and Pastoral Region Dave Grills MLC said the investment, announced in the 2016-17 State budget last week, will help pensioners in regions like the Kimberley and Goldfields-Esperance remain mobile and independent by supporting access to different transport options.
“The Country Age Pension Fuel Card plays an important role in assisting regional pensioners, including age pensioners and people with disabilities, to remain independent through the purchase of fuel and taxi services,” Mr Grills said.
“The regional community does not have access to the same level of public transport as metropolitan areas and the fuel card enables recipients to travel to medical appointments, get along to community events and recreational activities, and visit family and friends more easily.
“Many regional residents have long distances to travel to access medical and health services and I’m proud that Royalties for Regions is assisting pensioners with these travel costs.”
Existing cardholders will automatically be issued a new card in July, provided they continue to meet the eligibility criteria.
To be eligible for a fuel card, applicants must live in an eligible regional location in WA and receive a Centrelink Age Pension, Carer Payment, Disability Support Pension, Wife Pension or Widow B Pension, or a Department of Veterans’ Affairs Service Pension, Social Security Age pension or Income Support Supplement.
Since 2008, the State Government through Royalties for Regions has invested a total of $158 million to fund the Country Age Pension Fuel Card Scheme.
The value loaded onto the Country Age Pension Fuel Card will increase from $565 to $575 from 1 July 2016.
The State Government will invest $3.78 billion through Royalties for Regions over the next four years to enhance regional health, community services, education, arts, Aboriginal development, agriculture, tourism and economic development.
“Since 2008, Royalties for Regions has invested $6.9 billion into more than 3700 projects and programs across regional WA,” Mr Grills said.
“This is an essential program helping to further build the capacity of the regions that serve as the engine room of the West Australian economy.”
For media enquiries contact Dave Grills MLC on (08) 9071 500 or email dave.grills@mp.wa.gov.au
