Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

Transcription

1 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/12

2 Need another copy? For additional copies of this guide please: visit your local Service Tasmania shop download or browse a copy at.concessions.tas.gov.au phone Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

3 premier s message All Tasmanians should have the opportunity to enjoy a reasonable standard of living and access to basic services. In the current environment of increasing cost of living, concessions and discounts are more important than ever in ensuring Tasmanians on low and fixed incomes can maintain a reasonable lifestyle and quality of life. The Tasmanian Government Discount and Concessions Guide helps individuals and families identify their entitlements by providing a comprehensive list of discounts and savings available on a wide range of services provided by government agencies. The Guide contains important information about concessions in areas including electricity, health services, water and sewerage, vehicle registration and public transport. Balancing the household budget is an ongoing challenge so I encourage you to read your copy of the Discounts and Concessions Guide to find out about the concessions and discounts available to you. Lara Giddings Premier Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

4 How to use this guide The Tasmanian Government offers a wide range of concessions to the broader community and those members of our community with the greatest need people on low or fixed incomes, those with a disability and their carers, seniors, veterans, widows, sole parents and students. This Guide lists all the concessions offered by the State Government to the Tasmanian community and is presented by category, such as transport or education. A range of other design features such as colour coding and the use of icons will also help you locate your entitlements. Important note: Please check the Concessions Guide website at.concessions.tas.gov.au regularly for updates as changes to discounts and concessions could occur during the year. The website will always have the most up to date information. Key Take note of the icons below. They will help you locate the concessions available to you in this guide. A full list of concessions available for each concession card can be found on pages Note: A person may be required to have a Commonwealth Concession Card to be eligible for some concessions provided by the State Government. Concession cards issued by the Commonwealth Government: Pensioner Concession Card issued by both Centrelink Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) Concession cards issued by the Tasmanian Government: SC CC Seniors Card Companion Card Concession available to anyone who meets the eligibility criteria: Centrelink Health Care Card CSHC Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Apply online or download an application form 4 Disclaimer: Information contained in this publication is correct at the time of printing. The concessions listed herein are subject to change without notice and at the discretion of the service provider. Government of Tasmania First published August 2011 ISSN

5 Contents Commonwealth concession cards Health Care Card (Centrelink)... 6 Pensioner Concession Card (Centrelink)... 8 Pensioner Concession Card (DVA) Commonwealth Seniors Health Card tasmanian government cards Seniors Card Companion Card Housing Electricity and Heating transport Education Health licences vehicles Parks and heritage Property, WATER and Land Tax Other Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

6 VEHICLES centrelink health care card Signature of cardholder Health Care Card KEY Issued by Centrelink on behalf of the Australian Government Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs Concession Cards Eligibility for the Centrelink Health Care Card is determined by Centrelink. The Centrelink Health Care Card incorporates the foster child Health Care Card, the Ex-Carer Allowance (child) Health Care Card and the Low Income Health Care Card. You may be eligible for a Health Care Card () if you: meet residence requirements receive a qualifying allowance or payment from Centrelink. Foster carers You may be eligible for a if you are a foster carer, or caring for another person s child, including a relative s child for example, if you are a grandparent or an aunt. The card is issued in the name of the child in your care. Ex-Carer carer allowance You may be eligible for a if your carer previously held a Carer Allowance (caring for a child under 16 years) Health Care Card for you prior to you turning 16 years of age. You must be years of age and a full time student. Low income earner You may be eligible for a Low Income Health Care Card if you are a low income earner for example, if you are studying, training, a low wage earner or retired, and if you meet the Low Income Health Care Card income test. If you do not have a but think you may be eligible, you should contact Centrelink. 6 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

7 Concessions available: Phone: Family Assistance Office Centrelink Centrelink has a range of phone numbers depending on which payment you receive. Visit the website to find the number that best suits your needs. Web:.centrelink.gov.au Publication: Centrelink publishes A Guide to Centrelink Concessions Cards online and as a hard copy booklet. VEHICLES Council rates remission Electricity Buses Taxis Patient travel Adult Education Tuition fees Course fees Dental services Community equipment scheme Continuous Positive Airways Pressure Program Enteral feeds and supplements Pharmaceuticals Wigs for cancer and alopecia patients Pressure garments for lymphoedema.. 49 Orthotic/prosthetic Recreational game licence Motor tax (40 per cent rebate) Motor vehicle registration compulsory third party insurance Vehicle registration National Parks passes Overland Track Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens The Hastings Experience and Mole Creek Caves Access to computers and the Internet Right to Information requests Making a Will Micro Business Loan Program Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

8 Centrelink pensioner concession card KEY Eligibility for the Centrelink Pensioner Concession Card () is determined by Centrelink. You may be eligible to hold a if you meet residence requirements and if you receive any of these payments: Age Pension Bereavement Allowance Carer Payment (adult or child) Disability Support Pension Newstart Allowance or Youth Allowance Parenting Payment. You may be eligible for a if you are aged over 60, and have been receiving certain allowances or benefits for more than nine months. You may also be eligible for a if you have a partial capacity to work and are receiving a certain payment or are the principal carer of a dependent child. Phone: Seniors Phone for other card holders: Centrelink has a range of phone numbers to call for information depending on which payment you receive. Go to Centrelink s website and click on Contact Us to find the number that best suits your needs. Web:.centrelink.gov.au Publication: Centrelink publishes A Guide to Centrelink Concessions Cards online and as a hard copy booklet. A hard copy of the guide can be found at Centrelink offices. 8 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

9 Concessions available: Council rates remission Electricity Heating allowance Buses Taxis Bass Strait islands air travel TT Line fares Patient travel Adult Education Tuition fees Course fees...34 Dental services Community equipment scheme Continuous Positive Airways Pressure Program Enteral feeds and supplements Patient travel assistance Pharmaceuticals Visual aids Wigs for cancer and alopecia patients Pressure garments for lymphoedema Orthotic/prosthetic Driver s licence Firearms fees Recreational angling licence Recreational game licence Recreational sea fishing licence Water licence Motor tax (40 per cent rebate) Motor vehicle registration compulsory third party insurance Vehicle registration National Parks passes Overland Track Port Arthur Historic Site Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens The Hastings Experience and Mole Creek Caves Access to computers and the Internet Right to Information requests Making a Will Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

10 Department of veterans affairs PensionER concession card SAMPLE SAMPLE KEY Eligibility for the Department of Veterans Affairs Pensioner Concession Card () is determined by the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA). The DVA is available to people who are: service pensioners age pensioners who receive their age pension through the DVA war widows and widowers receiving an income support supplement. To be eligible, you must: be receiving at least the minimum fortnightly payment of $1.00 income support (as listed above) meet Australian residency requirements. Phone: Web:.dva.gov.au 10 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

11 Concessions available: Council rates remission Electricity Heating allowance Buses Taxis Bass Strait islands air travel TT Line fares Patient travel Adult Education Tuition fees Course fees Community equipment scheme Continuous Positive Airways Pressure Program Enteral feeds and supplements Visual aids Orthotic/prosthetic Driver s licence Recreational angling licence Recreational game licence Recreational sea fishing licence Water licence Motor tax (40 per cent rebate) Motor vehicle registration compulsory third party insurance Vehicle registration National Parks passes Overland Track Port Arthur Historic Site Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens The Hastings Experience and Mole Creek Caves Access to computers and the Internet Right to Information requests Making a Will Firearms fees Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

12 commonwealth seniors health card KEY CSHC The Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) is available to self-funded retirees who do not receive a Centrelink or Department of Veterans Affairs income support payment. The CSHC is different to the Seniors Card issued by the Tasmanian Government. You may be eligible for the CSHC if you: meet residence requirements are of age pension age provide you and your partner s Tax File Numbers or provide a valid reason why you cannot do so; and meet an annual adjusted taxable income test. There is no assets test. Phone: Seniors (Centrelink) Web:.centrelink.gov.au Publication: Centrelink publishes A Guide to Centrelink Concessions Cards online and as a hard copy booklet. A hard copy of the guide can be found at Centrelink offices. Taxis Making a Will Parks and heritage (various concessions available) Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

13 tasmanian seniors card KEY SC The Tasmanian Seniors Card is a lifestyle card that enables holders to receive discounts from over 630 businesses and government services ranging from transport, electrical and health care through to accommodation, building supplies, clothing, dining and much more. The Tasmanian Seniors Card is available to: Tasmanian residents aged 60 years and over working no more than 20 hours a week in paid employment. You can apply for a Tasmanian Seniors Card over the counter at any Service Tasmania shop. Phone: [email protected] Web:.seniors.tas.gov.au Mail: Seniors Card Program, GPO Box 123, Hobart Buses Adult Education Recreational angling licence Recreational game licence Recreational sea fishing licence Parks and heritage (various concessions available) Making a Will Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

14 tasmanian companion card KEY CC The Tasmanian Companion Card is available to people who, due to their disability, require lifelong attendant care to participate at most community facilities and activities. This card allows the holder to receive a second ticket for their companion carer, free of charge, from participating businesses and organisations. Tasmanian residents may be eligible for the Companion Card if they: have a disability need lifelong attendant care due to their disability, are unable to participate at most community events and activities without attendant care. For more information and application forms: Phone: [email protected] Web:.companioncard.gov.au If you are deaf, have a hearing impairment or complex communication needs, use one of the following services to contact the Companion Card Program: Companion Card TT Y (telephone typewriter) on National Relay Service on Speech-to-Speech Relay Service on Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

15 housing housing Concessions in this section: Aboriginal housing service Home Share Private rental support scheme Public housing rent assistance Council rates remission Streets Ahead Incentive Program Key Pensioner Concession Card (Centrelink and DVA) Centrelink Health Care Card Apply online or download an application form CSHC SC CC Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Tasmanian Seniors Card Tasmanian Companion Card Available to anyone who meets the eligibility criteria Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

16 HOUSING Aboriginal housing service Assistance to Aboriginal people on low-incomes to access housing is available to those who: are low-income earners based on income eligibility limits for a Centrelink Health Care Card have financial assets less than $35,000. Eligibility for this assistance is determined by the Office of Aboriginal Affairs under the Government s Policy on Eligibility for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander specific programs and services. Phone: [email protected] Web:.dhhs.tas.gov.au/service_information/services_files/housing_tasmania Home Share Assistance for Tasmanians with low incomes to purchase a newly constructed home or an existing Housing Tasmania property or to receive Shared Equity assistance capped at 25 per cent of the property price (up to a maximum of $50,000). To be eligible: your income must be at or below the threshold levels (vary with circumstances) available from Housing Tasmania you must have no interest in any property, including land, and have assets less than $55,000 (current as at May 2011). Phone: (Tassie Home Loans) Web:.dhhs.tas.gov.au/housing/homeshare 16 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

17 Private Rental Support Scheme Assistance is available to eligible people who are having difficulty accessing or staying in the private rental market. Assistance is available to: low-income earners based on income eligibility limits for a Centrelink Health Care Card some single people whose income exceeds the Centrelink Health Care Card threshold by up to 20 per cent some couples whose income exceeds the Centrelink Health Care Card threshold by up to 10 per cent. South: (CA$H Colony Assistance Service for Housing) North: (Anglicare Private Rental Assistance) North West: (Devonport) or (Burnie) (Anglicare Private Rental Assistance) [email protected] (South) Web:.dhhs.tas.gov.au/housing/private_rental housing Public housing rent assistance Assistance is available to public housing tenants on a low income and who have less than $35,000 of financial assets. based on income eligibility limits for a Centrelink Health Care Card. Tenants pay a contribution towards the market rent calculated on their income. Phone: (Clarence Service Hub) (Glenorchy Service Hub) (Launceston Service Hub) (Burnie Service Hub) Web:.dhhs.tas.gov.au/housing Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

18 HOUSING Council rates remission A 30 per cent reduction on local government rates and charges (capped at a maximum amount each year) is available to a person who on July 1 each year holds a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card Repatriation Health War Widow or TPI Gold Card. The card holder must occupy the property as their principal place of residence and be legally responsible for the rates on that property. All initial enquiries should be made to your relevant local council. Streets Ahead Incentive Program The program provides assistance to Tasmanians on low incomes to buy a property from Housing Tasmania. To be eligible for some or all of the Streets Ahead incentives an applicant s household: income must be at, or below eligible threshold levels, which vary with circumstances assets must be worth less than $55,000. Phone: Web:.dhhs.tas.gov.au/housing/streets_ahead_incentive_program 18 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

19 Electricity and Heating Concessions in this section: Electricity ELECTRICITY AND HEATING Heating allowance Life support machine rebate Key Pensioner Concession Card (Centrelink and DVA) Centrelink Health Care Card CSHC SC CC Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Tasmanian Seniors Card Tasmanian Companion Card Apply online or download an application form Available to anyone who meets the eligibility criteria Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

20 ELECTRICITY AND HEATING Electricity An all-year rebate of cents per day from 1 July 2011 for regulated customers and from 13 July 2011 for Aurora Pay As You Go customers is available to people who have a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card. The rebate will be increased in line with electricity price increases. People who become eligible for the rebate during the year must apply for the rebate. Contact Aurora Energy for more information. Eligible concession customers accessing Aurora Pay As You Go do not pay the daily fixed charge. Phone: [email protected] Web:.auroraenergy.com.au Heating allowance An allowance of $56 a year is made to eligible pensioners to assist with heating costs. Payments of $28 are made in May and September. The allowance is available to people who hold a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card. A single pensioner must not have more than $1,750* in cash assets and married/de facto pensioners must not have more than $2,750.* *Other conditions also apply. Phone: Web:.dhhs.tas.gov.au 20 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

21 Life support machine rebate The rebate for life support machines varies according to the type of machine installed, and is available to people who: are eligible on medical grounds and have a life support machine installed live with someone who uses a life support machine. The approved life support systems and per-day discounts, currently as at 1 July 2011 are as follows: Oxygen concentrator, cents per day Peritoneal dialysis machine, cents per day Haemo-dialysis machine, cents per day Chronic positive pressure and airways regulator, cents per day Respirator (iron lung), cents per day OXCP (combination of 1 and 4 above), cents per day Phototherapy, cents per day. Phone: ELECTRICITY AND HEATING Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

22 TRANSPORT transport Concessions in this section: Metro/Merseylink buses Other bus operators Student travel Visually impaired bus concessions Taxis Island transport services TT Line Patient travel assistance Key Pensioner Concession Card (Centrelink and DVA) Centrelink Health Care Card CSHC SC CC Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Tasmanian Seniors Card Tasmanian Companion Card Apply online or download an application form Available to anyone who meets the eligibility criteria 22 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

23 AB Metro/Merseylink Buses Adult concession An adult concession fare for bus travel is available to people who hold a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card Seniors Card (all states and territories) or are aged 70 years and over DVA war widows. Metro Phone: Web:.metrotas.com.au Merseylink Phone: Web:.merseylink.com.au National Relay Service TTY/Voice: Speak & Listen (SSR): Web:.relayservice.com.au SC TRANSPORT Greencard Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

24 TRANSPORT Seniors concession Metro: Seniors Card holders can purchase adult concession fares on all Metro services. Using a Metro Greencard can earn an additional 25 per cent bonus travel credit. Contact Metro for details. Merseylink: $3.00 discount price for Merseylink DayTripper ticket available 9.00am Monday Saturday. These rates are available to holders of a: Seniors Card (all states and territories). Metro Phone: [email protected] Web:.metrotas.com.au Merseylink Phone: [email protected] Web:.merseylink.com.au National Relay Service TTY/Voice: Speak & Listen (SSR): Web:.relayservice.com.au Tasmanian Companion Card Cardholders are issued with a second ticket for their companion at no charge. Metro Phone: [email protected] Web:.metrotas.com.au National Relay Service TTY/Voice: Speak & Listen (SSR): Web:.relayservice.com.au SC CC 24 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

25 Other bus operators Pensioner and unemployed concession A 50 per cent concession on the approved adult base fare is available to people who receive the: Age or Widow Pension and have a Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card Newstart or Youth Allowance and have a Centrelink Health Care Card. For more information contact your operator. TRANSPORT Seniors concession A concession of between 10 per cent and 20 per cent on the approved adult base fare may be provided at the discretion of individual operators to: Tasmanian Seniors Card holders. For more information contact your operator. SC Student travel Refer to listings in the Education section on page 37. Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

26 TRANSPORT Visually impaired BUS concessions Metro/Merseylink Visually impaired people and their accompanying mobility instructor travel for free. Companion Card holders are issued with a second ticket for their companion at no charge. Metro Phone: [email protected] Web:.metrotas.com.au Merseylink Phone: [email protected] Web:.merseylink.com.au National Relay Service TTY/Voice: Speak & Listen (SSR): Web:.relayservice.com.au Other bus operators A 50 per cent concession on the approved adult base fare is available to visually impaired people who have a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card for Disability Support Pension (Blind). The concession is also available to an accompanying mobility instructor. For more information contact your operator. 26 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

27 Taxis Transport Access Scheme 50 per cent taxi concession A 50 per cent concession on the cost of travel by non-wheelchair accessible taxi is available to people: with a permanent and severe disability who have been assessed as meeting eligibility criteria for membership of the Transport Access Scheme. Who have a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card Commonwealth Seniors Health Card. A maximum subsidy of $25 per single journey applies. Phone: [email protected] Web:.transport.tas.gov.au CSHC TRANSPORT Transport Access Scheme 60 per cent taxi concession A 60 per cent concession on the cost of travel in a wheelchair accessible taxi is available to people: with a permanent and severe disability who have been assessed as meeting eligibility criteria for membership of the Transport Access Scheme, and who are totally wheelchair reliant. A maximum subsidy of $30 per single journey applies. Phone: [email protected] Web:.transport.tas.gov.au Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

28 TRANSPORT Island Transport services Bass Strait islands air travel A rebate of 50 per cent on the cost of one return trip to Northern Tasmania per financial year is available to age pensioners living on Bass Strait islands who have a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card. Phone: [email protected] Web:.transport.tas.gov.au Bruny Island ferry service Concession details are available from the operator. Phone: [email protected] Web:.brunyislandferry.com.au TT Line Passenger fares on the Spirit of Tasmania Discounts on selected passenger fares* are available to cardholders of a Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card. Cardholders are required to provide their pension card number and verify they receive a full government pension. Check the website for details and availability. * Applicable to selected passenger fares, subject to availability. Phone: [email protected] Web:.spiritoftasmania.com.au 28 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

29 Patient travel assistance Financial assistance is available for Tasmanians required to: travel more than 75 kilometres one way to access specialist medical services or lymphoedema treatment not available locally travel more than 50 kilometres one way to access the nearest renal and oncology treatment centre and the patient is ineligible for assistance from other sources (e.g. MAIB, Workers Compensation). Levels of assistance are determined by the distance, type of travel and accommodation required. Client contribution towards costs are reduced for holders of a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card (except for DVA Gold Card and in some cases White Card) Centrelink Health Care Card. For more information contact the Patient Travel Coordinator: Phone: (Royal Hobart Hospital) (Launceston General Hospital) (North West Regional Hospital) Web:.dhhs.tas.gov.au/ptas TRANSPORT Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

30 EDUCATION education Concessions in this section: Adult Education Primary school, high school and secondary college Tasmanian Polytechnic...33 Student accommodation Student travel Key Pensioner Concession Card (Centrelink and DVA) Centrelink Health Care Card CSHC SC CC Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Tasmanian Seniors Card Tasmanian Companion Card Apply online or download an application form Available to anyone who meets the eligibility criteria 30 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

31 Adult Education Adult Education course concession Concessions on fees for most Adult Education courses are available to holders of a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card Tasmanian Seniors Card; and Full-time students. South Phone: North Phone: North West Phone: Web: SC EDUCATION Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

32 EDUCATION Primary school (K 6), High School and Secondary College Student assistance Assistance towards the cost of school levies may be available to low income families with: full-time students from kindergarten to year 12 at state and non-government schools students enrolled part-time due to genuine hardship (such as illness, disability or family breakdown). Assistance is based on a family s taxable income and the number of dependent children. Assistance is also available to grandparents raising grandchildren, however, the grandparents income is not assessed. Grandparents must provide proof that their grandchildren are now legally in their care. Phone: [email protected] Web:.education.tas.gov.au/school/parents/costs/assistance Or contact the student s school. Spectacles assistance Assistance to buy spectacles may be available to low income families with: full-time students from kindergarten to year 12 at state and non-government schools students enrolled part-time due to genuine hardship (such as illness, disability or family breakdown). 32 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

33 Assistance is based on a family s taxable income and the number of dependent children. Assistance is also available to grandparents raising grandchildren, however, the grandparents income is not assessed. Grandparents must provide proof that their grandchildren are now legally in their care. Phone: [email protected] Web:.education.tas.gov.au/school/parents/costs/assistance EDUCATION School uniform exceptional assistance scheme Assistance may be given to buy school uniforms for: students in exceptional circumstances. Contact a social worker at the student s school. tasmanian polytechnic Tuition fee concession A reduction on the normal tuition fee for each unit or module is available to enrolled students who hold a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card (for certain benefits only). Or who receive: Austudy Abstudy Youth Allowance Newstart. Note: Capping also applies. Phone: Web:.polytechnic.tas.edu.au Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

34 EDUCATION Courses without fees Courses for which there are no tuition fees include: User Choice Aboriginal Programs English Language Pathway Programs Adult Literacy and Access Programs. Tuition fees are not charged for prisoners. Phone: Web:.polytechnic.tas.edu.au Courses with capped fees Course fees for all students are capped at the following annual maximum amounts: $280 for year olds $280 for students eligible for a concession $990 for full fee paying students. Note: Amounts listed are for the 2011 school year only and may change in Phone: Web:.polytechnic.tas.edu.au 34 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

35 Fee waiver Fees can be waived in full or reduced to concession rate (capped at $280), or to an alternative amount for: students in extreme financial hardship. Note: Details listed are for the 2011 school year only and may change in Phone: Web:.polytechnic.tas.edu.au EDUCATION Student childcare subsidy Up to a 50 per cent reimbursement of childcare costs (to a maximum of $750 per student per year) is available to people: enrolled in an accredited course at the Polytechnic with childcare provided through a registered carer or Family Day Care Program. Note: This concession is only available in Phone: Web:.polytechnic.tas.edu.au Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

36 EDUCATION Student Accommodation Accommodation allowance for tertiary students Financial support may be given to full-time tertiary students who live away from home due to the distance between their usual home in Tasmania and the closest tertiary institution offering their chosen course of study. Assistance is available to: tertiary students who receive a Centrelink or DVA means-tested benefit or education supplement students who are enrolled part-time due to genuine hardship (such as illness, disability or family breakdown). From 1 July 2011 this scheme is closed to new applicants. Existing applicants approved prior to 1 July 2011 will still be eligible for the allowance provided that they continue the course they were enrolled in at that date. Phone: [email protected] Web:.education.tas.gov.au/school/parents/costs/assistance Accommodation allowance for students (year 11 and 12) Financial support may be given to year 11 and 12 students who live away from home due to the distance between their usual home in Tasmania and the closest institution offering their chosen course of study. The assistance is available to: full-time year 11 and 12 students year 11 and 12 students who are enrolled part-time due to genuine hardship (such as illness, disability or family breakdown). Phone: [email protected] Web:.education.tas.gov.au/school/parents/costs/assistance 36 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

37 Student TRavel Student bus fares metropolitan areas Student fares of $1.20 (single trip) provide travel including transfers for 90 minutes. This applies to: full-time students up to and including the year of their 18th birthday. Metro Phone: Web:.metrotas.com.au Merseylink Phone: Web:.merseylink.com.au National Relay Service TTY/Voice: Speak & Listen (SSR): Web:.relayservice.com.au EDUCATION Student bus fares urban fringe and rural areas Student fares of $0.90 apply at all times, not just for travel to and from school, and are available to: full-time students up to the year of their 18th birthday who are travelling on a fare-charging service outside of urban areas. Phone: [email protected] Web:.transport.tas.gov.au Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

38 EDUCATION Adult student bus fares metropolitan areas Adult concession fares of $1.80 (all sections single flat fare) apply at all times, not just for travel to and from school, and are available to: full-time students from the year of their 19th birthday. Metro Phone: Web:.metrotas.com.au MERSEYLINK Phone: Web:.merseylink.tas.gov.au National Relay Service TTY/Voice: Speak & Listen (SSR): Web:.relayservice.com.au Adult student bus fares urban fringe and rural areas A 50 per cent concession on the approved adult base fare applies at all times, not just for travel to and from school, and is available to: full-time students from the year of their 19th birthday. Phone: [email protected] Web:.transport.tas.gov.au 38 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

39 Student Bus Pass metropolitan, urban fringe and rural areas No fare is charged for travelling between home and school to: students aged up to and including the year of their 18th birthday who have a Student Bus Pass for free travel. DEPARTMENT OF INFRASTRUCTURE, ENERGY AND RESOURCES Phone: Web:.transport.tas.gov.au National Relay Service TTY/Voice: Speak & Listen (SSR): Web:.relayservice.com.au EDUCATION Student transport concessions Adult students enrolled in full-time study at a recognised Tasmanian Education Institution and who, due to circumstances beyond their control, have yet to complete two equivalent years of post grade 10 education or training, may be entitled to: travel between their place of residence and their education institution on public transport at the child student fare a Student Bus Pass for Free Travel; or a Conveyance Allowance. An Adult Student is any student 18 years of age or older before 1 January of the current calendar year. Phone: [email protected] Web:.transport.tas.gov.au Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

40 EDUCATION Conveyance allowance An allowance to assist with the cost of transporting students to the nearest school or school bus service is available to students: who live five kilometres or more from the nearest school or school bus stop (whichever is the closer) with special needs who are unable to access public transport living on Bass Strait islands and attending their closest educationally appropriate school or college on mainland Tasmania. Phone: Web:.transport.tas.gov.au Apprentice and trainee travel A travel allowance of 20 cents per kilometre (25 cents for students living on the West Coast) is payable to: apprentices and trainees who have to travel more than 42 kilometres return to attend off-the-job training. Where apprentices and trainees are required to travel within Tasmania for training an accommodation allowance of $30 per day (to a maximum of $150 per week) is available to: apprentices and trainees who have to travel more than 40 kilometres each way to attend training with a training provider within Tasmania. Where apprentices and trainees are required to travel to the mainland for training, the State Government will: meet the cost of airfares provide $50 towards airport transfers pay an accommodation allowance of $70 a day. Phone: [email protected] Web:.skills.tas.gov.au/learners/support/allowances 40 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

41 health Health Concessions in this section: Adult dental service Children s dental service Community equipment scheme Continuous positive airways program Enteral feeds and supplements Home oxygen program Life support machine electricity rebate Patient travel assistance Pharmaceuticals Visual aids Wigs Insulin treated diabetes Lymphoedema Orthotic/prosthetic Key Pensioner Concession Card (Centrelink and DVA) Centrelink Health Care Card CSHC SC CC Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Tasmanian Seniors Card Tasmanian Companion Card Apply online or download an application form Available to anyone who meets the eligibility criteria Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

42 health Adult dental service Free emergency services and subsidised general services and dentures are available to adults who have a: Centrelink Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card. Note: Holders of a DVA Pensioner Concession Card are already entitled to free private dental care via the Department of Veterans Affairs. Phone: (Hobart) (Launceston) (Burnie) (Devonport) Web:.dhhs.tas.gov.au Children s dental service Free service is available to: all children under six dependent children of Centrelink Concession Card holders up to but not including 18 years of age. Holders of a: Centrelink Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card. Note: DVA card holders not eligible. Subsidised service is available to: all other children under 18. Check under Health and Human Services in the white pages for your local children s dental clinic. Web:.dhhs.tas.gov.au 42 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

43 Community Equipment Scheme (CES) Financial assistance is available to eligible clients who require: mobility and personal care aids and equipment specialised footwear basic home modifications (not in the South) continence aids appliances to enhance their safety and quality of life. health The assistance is available to people who have been referred by an authorised prescriber and who have a: Centrelink or DVA* Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card. * Where DVA card holders are not eligible under another scheme. Terms and conditions are outlined in the CES Guidelines available from the Department of Health and Human Services. Phone: (South) (North) (North West) Web:.dhhs.tas.gov.au Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

44 health Continuous Positive Airways Pressure Program Assistance through the provision of equipment is available to people who have been clinically assessed as having a sleep-related breathing disorder requiring a positive airways pressure machine. Please consult your medical specialist. To be eligible people must have a prescription from a sleep specialist and hold a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card. Phone: (general enquiries) Phone: (Royal Hobart Hospital Department of Respiratory Medicine) Phone: (Launceston General Hospital Respiratory Unit) (South): [email protected] Enteral feeds and supplements Tube feeds and oral nutrition supplements are supplied at subsidised cost to people: with serious medical conditions that affect their ability to meet nutritional requirements with normal food and drink; and are assessed by a dietitian as requiring nutrition support. The subsidised costs are based on estimates from the Household Expenditure Survey for food and adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index. A further reduction in the subsidised cost is available if you have a: Centrelink Health Care Card Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card (excluding DVA gold cards). The subsidised supplements are only available to individuals who are NOT eligible for financial assistance from any other government-funded program. Phone: (Royal Hobart Hospital) (Launceston General Hospital) (North West Regional Hospital) 44 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

45 Home Oxygen Program Oxygen supplies are available to patients assessed by a specialist doctor as needing oxygen therapy. Please consult your medical specialist. The assessment needs to be approved by the Department of Respiratory Medicine at the Royal Hobart or Launceston General Hospitals. Note: Does not apply to Department of Veterans Affairs card holders who are eligible for DVA assistance. Phone: (general enquiries) Phone (South): (Royal Hobart Hospital Department of Respiratory Medicine) (South): [email protected] Phone (North): (Launceston General Hospital Respiratory Unit) health Life support machine electricity rebate The rebate for life support machines varies according to the type of machine installed, and is available to people who: are eligible on medical grounds and have a life support machine installed live with someone who uses a life support machine. The approved life support systems and per-day discounts, currently as at 1 July 2011 are as follows: Oxygen concentrator, cents per day Peritoneal dialysis machine, cents per day Haemo-dialysis machine, cents per day Chronic positive pressure and airways regulator, cents per day Respirator (iron lung), cents per day OXCP (combination of 1 and 4 above), cents per day Phototherapy, cents per day. Phone: Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

46 health Patient travel assistance Financial assistance is available for Tasmanians required to: travel more than 75 kilometres one way to access specialist medical services or lymphoedema treatment not available locally travel more than 50 kilometres one way to access the nearest renal and oncology treatment centre; and the patient is ineligible for assistance from other sources (e.g. MAIB, Workers Compensation). Levels of assistance are determined by the distance, type of travel and accommodation required. Client contribution towards costs are reduced for holders of: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card (except for DVA Gold Card and in some cases, White Card) Centrelink Health Care Card. For more information contact the Patient Travel Coordinator: Phone: (Royal Hobart Hospital) (Launceston General Hospital) (North West Regional Hospital) Web:.dhhs.tas.gov.au/ptas Pharmaceuticals Concessions are available on pharmaceuticals dispensed to patients discharged from hospitals, outpatients attending the emergency department or hospital outpatient clinics within public hospitals. General patients are entitled to receive pharmaceuticals at a maximum cost of $34.20 per prescription item. CSHC 46 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

47 Holders of one of the following cards will pay a maximum of $5.60 per prescription item: Centrelink Health Care Card Commonwealth Seniors Card Centrelink Pensioner Concession Card PBS Safety Net Concessions Card issued by a Pharmacy Repatriation Health Care Card issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs DVA Pensioner Concession Card. Holders of a PBS Safety Net Entitlement Card will not be charged for their medication. Phone: (Royal Hobart Hospital) (Launceston General Hospital) (North West Regional Hospital) health Visual aids Subsidies of 70 per cent are available on: scheduled items such as lenses and basic frames low vision aids, non-cosmetic contact lenses, prostheses and intra-ocular implants (up to $ per item). Eligible people include pre-school age children and adults post-school year 12 who are permanent Tasmanian residents (for at least three continuous months immediately prior to application) and who: have a Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card (excluding Gold Card and in some cases White Card) meet an assessment of current income and cash assets. Other low-income earners may be eligible for the subsidy under hardship provisions. The minimum Tasmanian residential requirement does not apply to refugees. Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

48 health The subsidy does not cover wards of state or school age children for whom assistance is available through Children and Family Services and the Department of Education. See Education section, page 32. Note: People with private health insurance are ineligible. Phone: (free call) Web:.dhhs.tas.gov.au Wigs Some financial assistance to buy wigs is available to cancer and alopecia patients who are referred by a doctor and who have a: Centrelink Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card. Note: Holders of a DVA Pensioner Concession Card please consult the Department of Veterans Affairs. Phone: (Royal Hobart Hospital) (Launceston General Hospital) or contact your medical specialist. 48 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

49 Specific Medical Conditions Insulin-treated diabetes Free needles and syringes are available to people with insulin-treated diabetes who are: residents of Tasmania accessing the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) not receiving any other co-payment to cover the cost of needles and syringes under the NDSS. Phone: (Diabetes Australia Tasmania) Web:.diabetestas.com.au health Lymphoedema Financial assistance is available to people requiring compression garments to help manage lymphoedema and who have a: Centrelink Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card. Note: For card holders of a DVA Pensioner Concession Card please consult the Department of Veterans Affairs. Phone: (Royal Hobart Hospital Physiotherapy) (Royal Hobart Hospital Occupational Therapy) (Launceston General Hospital Physiotherapy) (North West Regional Hospital Physiotherapy) [email protected] (South) [email protected] (North) [email protected] (North West) Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

50 health Orthotic / Prosthetic A reduced contribution charge for orthotic and prosthetic services is provided to eligible people whose costs are not met by other organisations such as MAIB, Worker s Compensation or the Department of Veterans Affairs. To access the service, clients are required to have a current referral from either a GP, an allied health professional or a medical specialist. Those eligible include: public hospital clients Centrelink or DVA* Pensioner Concession Card holders Centrelink Health Care Card holders. * Where DVA card holders are not eligible under another scheme. Clients are charged for more advanced or specialised technology that falls above concession caps. Phone: (South) (North) (North West) [email protected] Web:.dhhs.tas.gov.au 50 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

51 LICENCES Licences Concessions in this section: Driver s licence Firearms fees Recreational angling licence Recreational game licence Recreational sea fishing licence Water licence Key Pensioner Concession Card (Centrelink and DVA) Centrelink Health Care Card CSHC SC CC Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Tasmanian Seniors Card Tasmanian Companion Card Apply online or download an application form Available to anyone who meets the eligibility criteria Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

52 LICENCES Driver s licence Eligible applicants under 65 can receive savings between $9.80 and $47.60, depending on the length of time the drivers licence is issued. Driver licence discounts are available to people who: hold a Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card hold a Centrelink Health Care Card hold a white or gold card issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs are members of the Transport Access Scheme (for people with a severe disability). There is no licence fee for people 65 years and over, however there is a small photo card fee. Phone: [email protected] Web:.transport.tas.gov.au Firearms fees A 20 per cent reduction on fees is available to people who hold a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card. Phone: [email protected] Web:.police.tas.gov.au 52 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

53 Recreational angling licence Savings on full season adult angling licences are available to: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card holders (discount of 45 per cent) Seniors Card holders (discount of 20 per cent) people aged between 14 and 17 years (discount of 80 per cent). Phone: Web:.ifs.tas.gov.au SC LICENCES Recreational game licence A 20 per cent discount for recreational game licences applies for: deer wallaby muttonbird pheasant wild duck brown quail. The discount is available to people who have a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card Tasmanian Seniors Card. Phone: (game licences) or (DPIPWE enquiries) [email protected] Web:.gamelicences.dpiw.tas.gov.au SC Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

54 LICENCES Recreational sea fishing licence A 50 per cent discount on the licence application fee for: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card holders Seniors Card holders (all states and territories) people under the age of 16. Phone: [email protected] Web:.fishing.tas.gov.au SC Water licence All licensees are eligible for rebates of 50, 70 or 100 per cent when: the water allocations under the licence are exclusively for stock and domestic (but not commercial) use; and the maximum daily quantity of water taken is less than 0.01ML Phone: [email protected] Web:.dpipwe.tas.gov.au 54 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

55 VEHICLES vehicles Concessions in this section: Duty Motor tax (40 per cent) Motor tax (100 per cent) Motor vehicle registration compulsory third party insurance Vehicle registration Key Pensioner Concession Card (Centrelink and DVA) Centrelink Health Care Card CSHC SC CC Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Tasmanian Seniors Card Tasmanian Companion Card Apply online or download an application form Available to anyone who meets the eligibility criteria Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

56 VEHICLES Duty A 100 per cent exemption from duty on vehicle registration applications and transfers is available for a vehicle with a gross vehicle mass not exceeding 4.5 tonnes to people who: receive a TPI Pension are members of the Transport Access Scheme (for people with a severe disability). Note: This concession only applies to one vehicle registered in the name of the eligible person. Phone: [email protected] Web:.transport.tas.gov.au Motor tax (40 per cent rebate) The 40 per cent rebate on motor tax (which is included in motor vehicle registration) is available for: goods vehicles (such as utes and vans) with a gross vehicle mass not over 4.5 tonnes. The rebate is available to people who hold a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card White or gold card issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Note: This concession only applies if a concession has not already been granted on another motor vehicle registered in the name of the eligible person. Phone: [email protected] Web:.transport.tas.gov.au 56 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

57 Motor tax (100 per cent exemption) The 100 per cent exemption on motor tax (which is included in motor vehicle registration) is available for a: vehicle with a gross vehicle mass not exceeding 4.5 tonnes. Note: This exemption only applies to one vehicle registered in the name of the eligible person. The exemption is available to people who: receive a TPI Pension are members of the Transport Access Scheme (for people with a severe disability). Phone: [email protected] Web:.transport.tas.gov.au VEHICLES Motor vehicle registration compulsory third party insurance (MAIB) A concession of $69 on MAIB third party insurance premiums is available for: motor vehicles (other than motorcycles) not over 4.5 tonnes. The concession is available to people who: hold a Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card hold a Centrelink Health Care Card hold a white or gold card issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs are a member of the Transport Access Scheme (for people with a severe disability). Note: The discount listed above is based on a 12-month payment period. Phone: [email protected] Web:.transport.tas.gov.au Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

58 VEHICLES Vehicle registration Discounts on vehicle registration fees are available for: motor vehicles (other than motorcycles) not over 4.5 tonnes gross vehicle mass ($35.80) trailers (including caravans) ($14.00) motorcycles ($32.20). Vehicle registration discounts are available to people who: hold a Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card hold a Centrelink Heath Care Card hold a white or gold card issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs are members of the Transport Access Scheme (for people with a severe disability). Note: This concession only applies to one vehicle of each type (i.e. one car, one motorcycle, one trailer, one caravan) registered in the name of the eligible person. The discounts listed above are based on a 12-month payment period. Phone: [email protected] Web:.transport.tas.gov.au 58 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

59 parks and heritage PARKS AND HERITAGE Concessions in this section: National Parks passes Overland Track Parks and Wildlife Companion Card Port Arthur Historic Site Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens (Botanical Shop) Tahune Air Walk and Tarkine Forest Adventures (Dismal Swamp) The Hastings Experience and Mole Creek Caves Key Pensioner Concession Card (Centrelink and DVA) Centrelink Health Care Card CSHC SC CC Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Tasmanian Seniors Card Tasmanian Companion Card Apply online or download an application form Available to anyone who meets the eligibility criteria Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

60 PARKS AND HERITAGE National Parks passes A 20 per cent discount on annual and two-year National Parks passes is available to holders of a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Seniors Card (all states and territories). Phone: [email protected] Web:.parks.tas.gov.au CSHC SC Overland Track A 20 per cent discount on booking fees is available to holders of a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Tasmanian Seniors Card. Phone: Web:.overlandtrack.com.au CSHC SC Parks and Wildlife Service Companion Card Free entry is available for a companion when one ticket is purchased by a Companion Card holder to: The Hastings Experience Highfield Historic Site Mole Creek Caves. Phone: (Hastings Reserve) or (Highfield House) or (Mole Creek Caves) Web:.parks.tas.gov.au CC 60 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

61 Port Arthur Historic Site Discounted entry fees available to holders of a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Tasmanian Seniors Card University of Tasmania Student Card. Companion Card holders will receive a second ticket for their companion carer at no charge. Phone: [email protected] Web:.portarthur.org.au CSHC SC CC PARKS AND HERITAGE Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens Discounts on entry to the annual Spring Community Festival, TreadLightly Envirofest and KidsFest are available to holders of a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Companion Card Student Card. A range of discounts on event and festival entry fees are available to holders of a: Seniors Card (all states and territories). Phone: [email protected] Web:.rtbg.tas.gov.au CSHC SC CC Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

62 PARKS AND HERITAGE Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens (Botanical Shop) A five per cent discount is available to holders of a: Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Seniors Card (all states and territories). Phone: [email protected] Web:.rtbg.tas.gov.au Tahune Air Walk and Tarkine Forest Adventures (Dismal Swamp) A 10 per cent discount on entry fees to Tahune Air Walk and Tarkine Forest Adventures is available to holders of a: Seniors Card (all states and territories). Phone: Web:.adventureforests.com.au CSHC SC SC The Hastings Experience and Mole Creek Caves A 20 per cent discount on entry fees to The Hastings Experience (Hastings Caves and thermal springs) and Mole Creek Caves is available to holders of a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Tasmanian Seniors Card. Phone: [email protected] Web:.parks.tas.gov.au CSHC SC 62 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

63 property, WATER and land tax Concessions in this section: Duty on transfer of business assets Duty on intergenerational rural transfers Duty on the transfer of matrimonial property following a marriage breakdown Duty on the transfer of property following breakdown of a personal relationship Duty on transfer of real property into joint names Land tax on primary production land Land tax on principal residence land Land tax on principal residence land in transitional circumstances Water and sewerage concession PROPERTY, WATER AND LAND TAX Key Pensioner Concession Card (Centrelink and DVA) Centrelink Health Care Card CSHC SC CC Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Tasmanian Seniors Card Tasmanian Companion Card Apply online or download an application form Available to anyone who meets the eligibility criteria Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

64 PROPERTY, WATER AND LAND TAX Duty on transfer of business assets (not land) An exemption from duty on the transfer of business assets (other than land) between relatives is available in some circumstances. Phone: or Web:.sro.tas.gov.au Duty on intergenerational rural transfers An exemption from duty on the transfer of property, used solely or principally for primary production, is available when the property is transferred to a relative or to a trustee for the benefit of relatives. Detailed and specific conditions apply to this concession. Phone: or [email protected] Web:.sro.tas.gov.au Duty on the transfer of matrimonial property following a marriage breakdown An exemption from duty on the transfer of matrimonial property from one spouse to another; or to a child of the marriage, is available to: partners in a marriage that is dissolved or annulled (or, in the opinion of the Commissioner, has irretrievably broken down) a child of the relationship under the age of 18. Phone: or [email protected] Web:.sro.tas.gov.au 64 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

65 Duty on the transfer of property following breakdown of a personal relationship An exemption from duty on the transfer of property from one partner to another, or to a child of the partners of a personal relationship (married, non-married and carer relationships) is available to: partners in a personal relationship that is terminated a child, of the partners, under the age of 18. Phone: or [email protected] Web:.sro.tas.gov.au Duty on transfer of real property into joint names An exemption from duty on the transfer of property into joint names is available to: partners in a marriage or personal relationship (significant and carer relationships). Only available for their principle place of residence. Phone: or [email protected] Web:.sro.tas.gov.au PROPERTY, WATER AND LAND TAX Land tax on primary production land A land tax concession may be available for land that is used substantially for the business of primary production. Phone: or [email protected] Web:.sro.tas.gov.au Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

66 PROPERTY, WATER AND LAND TAX Land tax on principal residence land A land tax concession may be available for land (as at 1 July each year): on which a domestic dwelling exists; and is the owner s principal place of residence. A rebate on land tax is available on land: on which a dwelling is being built as the principal residence of the owner during the year. Phone: or [email protected] Web:.sro.tas.gov.au Land tax on principal residence land in transitional circumstances Rebate of land tax is available to all owners of land (as at 1 July each year) where the owners have two principal places of residence in transitional circumstances. The rebate applies where owners have purchased a new principal place of residence before 30 June but not yet sold their previous principal place of residence by that date. Detailed and specific conditions apply to this concession. Phone: or [email protected] Web:.sro.tas.gov.au 66 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

67 Water and sewerage concession Eligible customers can receive a State Government funded concession of up to $ ($75.08 for water, $75.08 for sewerage) off their water and sewerage service charges for the financial year. The amount of concessions available will be proportioned in accordance with the date the application is received by the water corporation. To be eligible you must be legally responsible for the account and occupy the property as your principal place of residence. Eligible concessions are: Centrelink Health Care Card Centrelink Pensioner Concession Card Department of Veterans Affairs Repatriation Gold Card. Phone: 13 MY WATER (136992) Cradle Mountain Water [email protected] Web:.cmwater.com.au Southern Water [email protected] Web:.southernwatertas.com.au Ben Lomond Water [email protected] Web:.benlomondwater.com.au PROPERTY, WATER AND LAND TAX Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

68 OTHER other Concessions in this section: Access to computers and the Internet for low income earners Birth certificates Police record checks for volunteers Enduring Power of Attorney Right to Information requests Funeral assistance Making a Will Micro Business Loan Program Key Pensioner Concession Card (Centrelink and DVA) Centrelink Health Care Card CSHC SC CC Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Tasmanian Seniors Card Tasmanian Companion Card Apply online or download an application form Available to anyone who meets the eligibility criteria 68 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

69 Access to computers and the Internet for low income earners Free access to computers and the Internet at Online Access Centres is available to low income earners for: normal booking limits of a one hour session, unless otherwise agreed with the centre coordinator the use of computers and the Internet for business purposes. Printing and recreational use such as general web surfing, online games and chat have normal fees and charges. The free access is available to people who are registered patrons of an Online Access Centre and who have a: Centrelink Health Care Card Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card Gold Repatriation Health Card. Phone: [email protected] Web:.tco.asn.au OTHER Birth certificates Free birth extracts are available to Tasmanian-born people applying to Centrelink for the Age Pension. Phone: [email protected] Web:.justice.tas.gov.au/bdm Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

70 OTHER Police record checks for volunteers A reduced fee of $5 for a police record check is available to: volunteers pre-approved and validated by the relevant volunteer organisation. Organisations must complete the volunteer rate application form for the volunteer to be able to receive the reduced fee. Phone: or [email protected] Web:.police.tas.gov.au Enduring Power of Attorney The Public Trustee will prepare an Enduring Power of Attorney free of charge for clients who appoint the Public Trustee directly as their attorney. Phone: [email protected] Web:.publictrustee.tas.gov.au Right to Information (previously Freedom of Information) A waived fee may be available to people who have a: Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card Centrelink Health Care Card. Contact the relevant Tasmanian Government department on Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

71 Funeral assistance A basic Essential Care Funeral may be available for a deceased person where family members: receive a pension or benefit has received no substantial assistance from any other source (Centrelink, Veterans Affairs, MAIB, Private Medical Benefits fund, Insurance, Superannuation) are unable to claim the deceased because they have insufficient funds or assets to pay for a funeral service. The whole family is assessed for eligibility and it is important they contact the Department of Health and Human Services before any responsibility is taken, or arrangements are made to organise a funeral. An Essential Care Funeral includes: transfer and storage of the deceased a basic coffin transportation registration of death media notices interment/cremation. For more information phone: (South) (North) (North West) OTHER Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

72 OTHER Making a Will Where the Public Trustee is appointed sole executor there is no charge for: students Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card holders Centrelink Health Care Card holders Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders Seniors Card holders (all states and territories) beneficiaries of an estate administered by the Public Trustee revising a Public Trustee Will. Phone: [email protected] Web:.publictrustee.tas.gov.au CSHC SC Micro Business Loan Program The program is available to those on low incomes (Health Care Card holders) and provides business mentoring support and small interest-free loans. Loans of up to $3,000 are available to assist, start or grow a small business. Phone: [email protected] Web:.businesspoint.tas.gov.au 72 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

73 NOTES Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide

74 NOTES 74 Tasmanian Government Concessions Guide 11 12

75 75

76 DISCOUNTS & CONCESSIONs Need another copy? For additional copies of this guide please: visit your local Service Tasmania shop download or browse a copy at.concessions.tas.gov.au phone Department of Premier and Cabinet Phone: [email protected] DPAC5234_RJ