Carolyn Male MP, State Member for Pine Rivers, would like to make people aware that new concessions for Queensland pensioners come into effect this month.

Carolyn Male MP said the 2010-11 state budget included two key increases in concessions which would make life easier for pensioners.

“Queensland is on the road to recovery but people on fixed incomes can feel the pinch more than others,” Carolyn Male MP said.

“That’s why we’ve made an effort to relieve some of the pressure on pensioners.”

“From today, eligible pensioners will be able to access increased rebates on their power bills.”

“We’d already increased the maximum amount of $190 a year and now it’s up to $216 a year.”

“We’re also increasing the maximum amount eligible south-east Queensland pensioners on the water grid can access through the water subsidy rebate from $70 to $100.”

“This is on top of the $180 offered to eligible pensioners as a rates rebate.”

Carolyn Male MP said Queensland pensioners and seniors would have continued access to a range of other concessions, discounts and rebates which included up to half price travel on trains, buses and ferries, half price car registrations, reduced taxi fares for people with a disability and free ambulance cover.

“Some Queenslanders are doing it tough and the Bligh Government is doing what it can to help,” Carolyn Male MP said.

To find out more information about concessions available to pensioners, visit www.communityservices.qld.gov.au or phone 13 13 04 for the cost of a local call.