Applications open for Commonwealth Seniors Health Card

Claim forms for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card are now available from Centrelink offices Minister for Community Services Larry Anthony announced today.

“As part of the Coalition Government’s Budget measures to recognise the contribution of older Australians, eligibility for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card has been considerably extended.

“From 1 July 2001 eligible older Australians will reap the benefits of the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card. They will have access to the benefits including concessions on prescription medicines through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and, from September 2001, eligibility for a Telephone Allowance.

“To be eligible for the Card people should be of Age Pension age (currently 65 for men and 61½ for women) and have income of less than $50,000 for singles and $80,000 for couples.

“Around 200,000 people will be eligible for the Card and will need to complete an application form. I strongly encourage people who believe they are eligible to make an application,” Mr Anthony said.

When claiming the Card, people should provide proof of identification, age, income and residency.