About 30 seniors met in Katherine today to have their say on the review of the NT Pensioners and Carers Concession scheme. 

Some senior residents expressed concern that the review would mean less concessions and stricter eligibility requirements. 

A government spokeswoman said “no decisions have been made yet on how the scheme will be reformed”.

“Right now everything is on the table, of who will get what, that is all under review,” the spokeswoman said.

“We are getting people’s opinions then we will provide recommendations to government. The scheme was introduced in 1979 and no major review or reforms have been undertaken since.

“It is open to fraud and people are taking advantage of electricity and water concessions,” she said. 

Katherine MLA Sandra Nelson said at today’s meeting she had seen first hand how people have taken advantage of the scheme.

“My 82-year-old aunt’s pension card was used for trips to Adelaide and Brisbane and she has never been to Adelaide or Brisbane,” Ms Nelson said. 

“The scheme is open to abuse, and everyone in this room is affected if someone takes advantage of the scheme.

“We cannot leave things open for people to take advantage of,” she said. 

Senior citizens were able to put forward their concerns as well as new ideas on what the scheme should look like.

One senior citizen said insurance should be included as one of the concessions.

“Insurance would be good to have as well because we have to pay a lot of money for flood insurance, I don’t know how I could afford to pay it if I was not working, it is more than $10,000 dollars,” she said. 

“At Edith Farms Road we do not get sewerage or garbage collection but we still pay for everything,” another woman remarked.

“Everyone should get the same lump sum of money and when it is used it is used,” another said. 

Katherine resident Delma Harlan was appointed to the Minister’s Advisory Council for Senior Territorians in May. 

Minister for Territory Families Dale Wakefield said the Council was a voice for seniors, providing advice to government on social and economic issues from a senior’s perspective and issues relevant to senior Territorians.

“Seniors contribute to our economic growth and it’s critical for the future of the Northern Territory that we keep our seniors here,” Ms Wakefield said.

“Our government is supporting and respecting local seniors through help with the cost of living, better accommodation options and more opportunities to enjoy our lifestyle.”

Public consultation will close on August 31.