As the cost of living continues to soar, Hume council will advocate to the state government to increase the rates rebate to pensioners and veterans.
At a council meeting last week, councillor Naim Kurt raised the request as a notice of motion, saying the government rebate to a total of $253.20, or up to 50 percent of pensioner or veteran rates, was not keeping up with the cost of everyday expenses.
“The municipal rates concession rebate was indexed for the first time in 2004 and prior to this date, the rebate was just $135,” Cr Kurt said.
“Since that time the rebate has only increased by about $120, so in the space of 20 years, that rebate has only increased by $120.
“We’ve all seen, with the rising cost of living, you wouldn’t be able to purchase a loaf of bread for the same amount as 20 years ago.”
He said he’d heard “horrible stories” from pensioners in the community who have been going to bed early in winter because they couldn’t afford electricity bills.
“This is one way I think we can be helping our community, by advocating to the state government,” Cr Kurt said.
“Making sure we get an increase to that rebate beyond that $253 and get that not just for the benefit for our community, but for the benefit of all pensioners and all veterans around Victoria at the moment.”
Elsie Lange
