There are a few different types of health cards for seniors in Australia, and the best way to get one is to contact your local Medicare office. You can find your nearest office by visiting the Medicare website (www.medicareaustralia.gov.au) or calling the Medicare contact centre on 132 011.
The different types of health cards for seniors are:
• Commonwealth Seniors Health Card: This card gives seniors access to a range of government health concessions and rebates, including cheaper medicines, free blood pressure checks and free or discounted eyeglasses.
• Pensioner Concession Card: This card gives seniors access to a range of government concessions, including cheaper medicines, free public transport in some states, and discounts on electricity and water bills.
• Seniors Health Card: This card gives seniors access to free or discounted health care services, including free blood pressure checks and free or discounted eyeglasses.
To be eligible for a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card, you must:
• be of Age Pension age (currently 65 years or over)
• not be receiving a pension or benefit from Centrelink or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs
• have an annual income of less than $50,119 for singles or $84,472 for couples (together with any dependent children)
• meet the residency requirements.
To be eligible for a Pensioner Concession Card, you must:
• be receiving a pension from Centrelink or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs
• be of Age Pension age (currently 65 years or over)
• meet the residency requirements.
To be eligible for a Seniors Health Card, you must:
• be of Age Pension age (currently 65 years or over)
• be a resident of a state or territory with a reciprocal health care agreement with Medicare
• hold a valid Medicare card.
