OLDER Queenslanders are being encouraged to take advantage of government concessions and rebates designed to ease cost-of-living pressures, with a series of Seniors Expos and Savings Pop-ups returning in 2024.
More than 16,000 seniors have attended these events over the past three years, learning about potential savings on essential services, transport, and medical support. The first Seniors Expo for 2024 was held at Logan Diggers Services Club, with more events planned across the state.
The Queensland Government offers several concessions to older residents, including:
- $1,072 off power bills, comprising a $700 cost-of-living energy rebate in 2023-24 for pensioners, veterans, seniors card holders, and other vulnerable households, in addition to the existing $372 annual rebate.
- Up to 50 per cent off Translink bus, train, and ferry services.
- Up to 50 per cent off vehicle registration for pensioners, seniors, and veterans, cutting costs from $360.60 to $180.30 for a four-cylinder vehicle.
- A $479 Medical Cooling and Heating Electricity Concession Scheme for eligible concession card holders.
- Free glasses every two years under the Spectacle Supply Scheme.
In addition to providing financial relief, the expos offer seniors advice on home and community safety and connect them with local support services.
Seniors Savings Pop-up events will also be held at Westfield shopping centres, starting with:
- Northlakes on March 11
- Chermside on March 12
- Garden City on March 13
- Carindale on March 14
- Coomera on March 15
These pop-ups provide face-to-face access to Queensland Government specialists who can assist seniors in applying for a Seniors Card and accessing relevant concessions.
Last year, 12 Seniors Expos were held across Queensland, from Toowoomba to Thursday Island, alongside 16 Seniors Savings Pop-ups in locations such as Gympie, Caboolture, Western Queensland, and the Brisbane EKKA. More events are scheduled for 2024.