From 1 July 2018 the Northern Territory Government will introduce the NT Concession Scheme (NTCS) and NT Seniors Recognition Scheme (NTSRS).
More than 24 000 Territorians are currently members of the NT Pensioner and Carer Concession Scheme. These members will transition to the new NTCS and may be eligible to join the NTSRS.
Members of the existing scheme have until 31 December 2018, to confirm their eligibility for the new schemes, they will not be affected by the 1 July change over.
Benefits of the new NT Seniors Recognition Scheme are not available until members have confirmed their eligibility.
Members will continue to receive the concessions that were available as part of the previous scheme but with capped amounts for electricity and water.
Become a member of the new schemes
Senior Territorians who will be 65 years or older this year, may be eligible for both schemes.
To be eligible for both schemes you must be a resident of the Northern Territory and an Australian Citizen or permanent resident.
The NT Concession Scheme is a means-tested scheme supporting eligible Territorians, with the cost of living. To be eligible for the NTCS residents must currently receive a commonwealth benefit including the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, Carer Payment, Parenting Payment (single) and some Department of Veterans’ Affairs benefits.
The NT Seniors Recognition Scheme acknowledges the valuable contribution seniors make to the NT. All senior Territorians 65 years or older, are eligible for this scheme.
NT residents can apply to become new members of the NT Concession Scheme and NT Seniors Recognition Scheme now.
A replacement card for the NT Concession Scheme will be provided.
Optometrists and travel providers
Members of the NT Concession Scheme are eligible to receive a concession on spectacles every two years. Concessions can be provided directly by an approved optometrist at the time of purchase.
Members of the NT Seniors Recognition Scheme can choose to use their payment of up to $500 each year towards the cost of travel in the NT, interstate or overseas. Annual travel vouchers can be redeemed at an approved travel provider when booking fares.
To become an approved vendor, eligible businesses are required to operate under a Code of Practice. These new arrangements promote best practice in service provision including providing value for money and operating in a way that promotes and maintains public confidence in the scheme.
Find out more
Information sessions and public displays will be held across the Territory to assist with the application process and confirm membership details.