Pensioner rebate cut-off

By JONATHON HOWARD

PENSIONERS must apply by 21 June to be eligible for the Pensioner Rebate Subsidy Scheme for the 2013-’14 financial year’s rates.
The Queensland Government’s Pensioner Rate Subsidy Scheme provides a subsidy of 20 per cent (up to a maximum amount of $200 each year) of the gross rates and charges levied by Southern Downs Regional Council.
“Pensioners should note that even if they already receive the rebate, they will need to reapply if they have moved since their last rates notice,” said Southern Downs Council CEO Andrew Roach.
“If you currently receive the rebate and your details haven’t changed since last year, you do not need to reapply.”
Mr Roach said council administered the scheme and the Department of Communities reimbursed the council.
To apply visit council and a community contact officer will assist you with the application. Do not forget to bring in your eligible pension card, which needs to be sighted by a council officer.
To be eligible you must hold a current State Government Pension Concession Card issued by Centrelink or a Repatriation Health Card for All Concessions (Gold Card) issued by the Department of Veteran Affairs.
Council rate notices are expected to be issued in July 2013.
For more information please phone council’s revenue team on 4661 0300.