Card changes leave seniors concerned

Busselton seniors believe they will be left disadvantaged after the announcement of the 2015-16 State Budget last week.

The Budget announcement would see the eligible age for the WA Seniors Card rise from 60 to 61 from July this year and gradually rise to 65 by 2023.

Busselton Senior Citizen's Centre manager Bruce Thiel said the decision to change the card would impact on some of the centre's members.

"Our members are showing a pretty strong signal that this Budget will affect them and leave them finically disadvantaged," he said.

"The seniors card is used to get a discount on rates, water and power and knowing that some will struggle with the changes is concerning."

Minister for Seniors Tony Simpson announced in State Parliament this week the Government was investigating the possibility of discounting stamp duty to seniors who were looking at downsizing.

Mr Thiel said he thought the discount could be used elsewhere to help seniors.

"We don't see a lot of movement with seniors in the real estate market," he said

Mr Thiel said most seniors were not downsizing to buy smaller homes, but rather moving into retirement villages.

More than $380 million was put towards concession and benefits for seniors in the Budget.

Vasse MLA Libby Mettam said no seniors were worse off this Budget.

"Anyone with a current seniors card will not be affected in line with the Federal Government policy changes," she said.

"Following these changes WA will still have the most generous concessions for seniors in Australia.

"I encourage anyone with a concern regarding these changes or any other issue to contact me at the electorate office to discuss."