Many people are simply unaware of all the concessions they can benefit from in Victoria. This adds up to hundreds of dollars extra that they're paying each year, when they could be saving that money and using it for something else. If you’re a carer, knowing about the discounts and benefits can help make life easier for you.
Following on from our previous article, here are a few more discounts and benefits you may be unaware of:
With these benefits, your financial load can become a lot lighter.
One discount many homeowners are unaware of, is reduced council rates. Once you reach pension age in Victoria, you can claim a nice deduction on your council rates. The amount is capped to a certain amount and is reviewed each year, but it can amount to a couple of hundred dollars in savings for you. Read more, here.
If you care for a person with disability, both you and the person with disability could be eligible for discounted airfares on Qantas domestic flights. The person with disability must need to have one-on-one support when seated on the aircraft for assistance with meals/drinks, toileting, administration of medication, orientation, communicating with the flight staff, etc. The person with disability is not eligible if they only need assistance boarding the aircraft or when they arrive at their destination. Read more, here.
Victorians on a low income can receive concessions and benefits to help pay their energy bills. Lower electricity and gas bills can help enormously when you're struggling financially. There are also relief grants you can apply for if you are experiencing unexpected hardship and can't pay energy or water bills. Read more here.
Carers Victoria members can benefit from discounted Hoyts adult movie tickets. You can see a movie for just $1.10 when you accompany the person you care for (they pay their normal ticket rate). There is a maximum purchase of one ticket per day, and you must present your Carers Victoria membership card and photo identification. This offer is valid until 31 December 2026 and Carers Australia aims to renew the agreement with Hoyts each year. Read more here.
If you're a carer and hold a Victorian Carers Card (We Care Card), you may qualify for concession fares on all Transport Victoria modes of travel. Whether it's tram, train or bus, you can enjoy a 50% discount on fares and in some cases, it can even be free travel. Read more, here.
Carers Victoria is the peak body for unpaid carers. We know the benefits and concessions carers are eligible to receive and point carers in the right direction.
For help with any of these, you can call our Statewide Carer Advisory Service office hours, weekdays. Carers Victoria offers expert information, advice and guidance, such as concessions you can benefit from in Victoria.
You can also benefit by being a free member of Carers Victoria.
The benefits of Carers Victoria free membership include:
Become a free member, here.
Read our first article Discounts and concessions you can benefit from in Victoria, for where you can learn more about:
