The ACT Government values the ongoing contribution older Canberrans make to our community. We want to make sure that all Canberrans continue to enjoy a good quality of life as they age, stay connected to our community and are supported by appropriate community services.
We will support these goals through the 2018 Budget by:
- Establishing a Seniors Rights Service through the Legal Aid Commission that can provide targeted support for older Canberrans who are experiencing, or are vulnerable to, elder abuse.
- Expanding the Hospital in the Home program so that 3,000 more Canberrans a year can receive high quality care in their own home.
- Boosting the Older Persons Mental Health Intensive Treatment Service to provide stronger case management and clinical care to older Canberrans being discharged from hospital, living in residential aged care, or experiencing issues with housing.
- Expanding the General Rates Aged Deferral Scheme by removing the income and unimproved land value thresholds so more senior Canberrans can defer their annual rates to help with their cost of living.
- Extending free off-peak travel on public transport for eligible concession card holders for a further 12 months.
To help older Canberrans with their cost of living the Utilities Concession will also be increased by $50 from 1 July, taking the total payment to $654 a year.
