The second round of the Country Age Pension Fuel Card scheme started today, with an estimated 15,000 additional pensioners eligible to apply under the expanded scheme.
Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls encouraged all eligible pensioners, who had not previously had a Country Age Pension Fuel Card, to apply at Australia Post from today.
"The fuel card was introduced to help with the travel costs of country age pensioners who generally do not have access to extensive public transport and are reliant on cars and taxis for their transport needs," Mr Grylls said.
"The card entitles the holder to $500 towards the cost of fuel and taxi fares and helps eligible country pensioners on fixed incomes to meet travel costs to attend medical appointments, do the shopping or visit family."
Mr Grylls said the scheme had been expanded this year and included country pensioners receiving a Disability Support pension, Carer Payment, Widow B pension and Wife pension.
"The fuel card scheme policy had previously included country pensioners who received Centrelink Age pension; Department of Veterans' Affairs Service pension; Social Security Age pension; and Income Support Supplement pension," he said.
"Four additional postcodes will also be included in the scheme, including 6124 (Jarrahdale); 6125 (Hopeland, Mardella and Serpentine); 6126 (Keysbrook); and 6211 (Dawesville, Bouvard, Clifton and Herron).
"The expanded scheme means the card could benefit nearly 43,000 people by the end of the year."
Transport Minister Simon O'Brien said he was pleased to see the second year expansion begin and thanked the departments of Regional Development and Lands; and Transport team members who jointly administer the scheme.
"I would also like to commend the fuel card and call centre service provider Retail Decisions and transaction provider Australia Post which have worked hard to ensure the systems are in place for the new categories," Mr O'Brien said.
Existing cardholders will automatically receive their new card by July 20 if their pension and country eligibility remains unchanged and their current contact details have not changed.
If cardholder name or address details have changed, they should contact the info line 1300 666 609 as soon as possible.
For more information about the fuel card, phone the info line or visit http://www.RoyaltiesforRegions.wa.gov.au/fuelcard
Regional Development Minister's office - 9213 7000
Transport Minister's office - 9213 6400
