Navigating health care and concession cards in Australia might not be the most exciting topic, but it can save you a fair bit of cash! These little cards unlock discounts on medications, health services, and even some everyday expenses.
No, you don’t need to wait until 67 for all of the cards, but there are certain criteria that need to be met to qualify for specific cards. Important to note – the cards below are all provided by Services Australia (aka Centrelink) – State Governments also supply certain cards, but that is a subject for another day.
What health care cards are available and what is the difference between them, and how can they actually help you (or someone you know)?
Let’s break it down in a way that makes cents—literally!
Health Care Card – https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/health-care-card
A Health Care Card is available to individuals who receive certain government payments or supplements, including those receiving the maximum rate of Family Tax Benefit Part A.
- Reduced cost for prescription medicines under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)
- Discounts on medical and dental services (state dependant)
- Concessions on utility bills (in some states)
- Public transport concessions (in some states)
Concession Card (see below for the types available)
A Concession Card is broader in eligibility and can be issued based on factors such as age and income. For instance, Pensioner Concession Cards are automatically issued to recipients of Age Pensions or Disability Support Pensions.
Key Benefits:
- Access to bulk-billed doctor visits
- Cheaper PBS prescription medicines
- Discounts on public transport, utilities, and rates (varies by state)
- Reduced-cost vehicle registration and driver’s licenses (varies by state)
Types of Concession and Health Care Cards
1. Low-Income Health Care Card
- Available to individuals who meet an income test – which means you can be under age pension age of 67 to apply
- Provides similar benefits to other Health Care Cards.
- More details: Low-Income Health Care Card
- Income Test details
Automatically issued to Age Pension recipients and certain other pensioners. Special rules for people 55 and over as well.
Offers broad health and cost-of-living concessions that include;
- Cheaper medicine under the PGS
- Bulk billed doctor visits (doctor dependant)
- Bigger refund for medical costs when you reach the Medicare Safety Net
- Help with some hearing services
- Discounts to diver your mail through Aus Post
- State Dependant benefits include – discounts to utility bills, water and property rates, motor vehicle registration and train fares.
3. Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) – we find this is very popular for self-funded retirees.
- For self-funded retirees who do not receive the Age Pension but meet an income test.
- Provides access to cheaper prescriptions and health care services.
- More details: Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
- Need to be 67 to apply (Age Pension Age) and meet specific criteria.
How Health Care Cards Can Help: Real-Life Case Studies
Please note, some benefits are state dependant – so the below is a guide only
Case Study 1: Sarah, the Single Parent
Sarah is a single mother of two children, working part-time while receiving Family Tax Benefit Part A at the maximum rate. She qualifies for a Health Care Card, which allows her to access bulk-billed GP visits and lower electricity bills. These savings help her manage her household budget more effectively.
Case Study 2: John, the Self-Funded Retiree
John, a 67-year-old retiree, does not qualify for the Age Pension due to his assets but meets the income test for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card. With the card, he gets cheaper prescription medications and medical services, significantly reducing his annual health expenses.
Case Study 3: Mark, the Low-Income Worker
Mark, a 42-year-old casual worker, meets the income test for the Low-Income Health Care Card. This card helps him afford essential medications, provides discounts on public transport, and reduces his utility costs.
In a money saving nutshell…
Health Care and Concession Cards might not be the most thrilling addition to your wallet, but they can definitely help keep more money in it!
If you think you might be eligible, you can head over to Services Australia for the details or get in touch with our team at Goldsworthy Private Wealth for more information.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Goldsworthy Private Wealth Pty Ltd ABN 24 657 947 101 Authorised Representative and Credit Representative of AMP Financial Planning Pty Limited, Australian Financial Services Licensee and Australian Credit Licensee., based on our understanding of the relevant legislation at the time of writing. While every care has been taken, Goldsworthy Private Wealth Pty Ltd makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of the contents. The information is of a general nature only and has been prepared without consideration of your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making any decisions, you should consider the appropriateness for your personal investment objectives, financial situation or individual needs. We recommend you see a financial adviser, registered tax agent or legal adviser before making any decisions based on this information.
