State's first and longest WA Seniors Card holder recognised

Seniors and Volunteering Minister Robyn McSweeney today presented 94-year-old Laurel Cheverton with a 'Number 1' WA Seniors Card in recognition of her being the State's first and longest seniors card holder, receiving her card in April 1988.

At the presentation Mrs McSweeney said over the 23-year history of the card, it had increased in its benefit value to more than $1,400 worth of annual benefits to more than 307,000 current card holders.

"Laurel has been a proud card holder since the card was introduced in 1988 and has seen the card increase in its benefits where today, a holder can access up to $1,400 annually," she said.

"The Liberal-National Government recognises the contribution of seniors in our community and was committed to introducing free transport for seniors as well as a Cost of Living Rebate (COLR).

"Since the State Government introduced the rebate in 2008, more than $42million in payments have been made.

"For WA Seniors Card holders who have received a COLR in the past, they don't need to do anything to get this year's COLR, however if they have changed address or bank account details they need to let the Seniors Card centre know before the end of May.

"For seniors that became card holders for the first time in July 2010, I ask they make sure they complete and return their application forms for the rebate by the end of May."

The Minister said payments for the annual rebate would start mid-July and urged seniors to maximise the use of their cards by taking advantage of the benefits on offer such as 50 per cent rebates off motor driver licences; 25 per cent rebate on annual water charges; free public transport between 9am and 3.30pm weekdays, public holidays and this year throughout Seniors Week being celebrated in November and Safety and Security Rebates worth $400.

WA Seniors Card holders who received their card after July 2010 and who want more information about applying for the 2011 rebate, can contact the Seniors Card Centre by phone on 6217 8855 or Freecall for country callers on 1800 671 233.

For more information about card holder benefits, visit http://www.communities.wa.gov.au/serviceareas/seniorscard/Pages/default.aspx