NEW ZEALAND: Fairer Deal for Elderly from July 1

AUKLAND (Government Press Release), June 29, 2006: Ruth Dyson, Minister for Senior Citizens announced a range of initiatives from the Labour-led government to benefit older New Zealanders in her speech to Age Concern Tauranga today. “From 1 July, around 2,000 superannuitants with a spouse or partner in long-term residential care will be eligible to be paid the single, living alone rate of New Zealand Super,” says Minister for Senior Citizens, Ruth Dyson. “This is an increase of $59 a week – or over $3,000 a year - for a superannuitant living alone, or $39.36 per week – or over $2,000 a year - for a superannuitant sharing with another person. This change reverses a discriminatory situation that has existed since 1993. “With rising property values, rates can be a burden on households with fixed incomes. So from July 1 of this year, we are increasing the maximum annual rebate from $200 to $500 and widening the eligibility for assistance. “As a result, a couple living on NZ Superannuation ($25,276 a year) will now be eligible for a rebate of $234 if the rates bill for their home is $1,500. An estimated 300,000 people annually are expected to benefit with the 4,000 who claimed a rebate in 2004-5. “The next stage in the phase out of income and asset testing for people in aged residential care comes into effect on July 1. Single people and couples with both partners in care will be able to keep up to $160,000 - up from $150,000 currently - in assets before they are used to contribute to the cost of their care. “Also from July 1 this year, the removal of the ‘sharing expenses rule’ takes effect. And we are extending the period of time a person can continue to receive superannuation while they are working voluntarily for an aid agency overseas, from one to three years. “Government is committed to strengthening New Zealand families, young and old, so that all New Zealanders are able to maintain active, fulfilling lives, and participate fully in our communities. We want all New Zealanders to have the support they need to be secure,” Ms Dyson said. Scoop.co.nz