Palaszczuk Government makes it easier for Queenslanders to access concessions

The Palaszczuk Government is making it easier for Queenslanders to access their share of the $5.3 billion budgeted for concessions and rebates this financial year.

Minister for Innovation, Science and the Digital Economy Leeanne Enoch said today (Tuesday) the Palaszczuk Government is providing customers with simpler, clearer and faster access to government services.

“Within my portfolio, the Department of Science Information Technology and Innovation (DSITI) is continuously making improvements to services for Queenslanders, including concession schemes,” Ms Enoch said.

“Smart Service Queensland - which facilitated over one million concession services received by Queensland households during 2016-17 - is providing easy and convenient access to government information and services 24/7, every day of the year.

“Through Smart Service Queensland, a card and concessions program is delivered on behalf of the Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services.

“Smart Service determines eligibility of applications and processes direct payment to customers as well as payments to service providers, for example energy and water retailers and local councils, which provide a subsidised benefit on their bills.”

Ms Enoch said the government’s One Stop Shop program is making it easier for Queenslanders to know what’s available to them, and to apply for selected concessions in one easy online process.

“The One-Stop Shop program is taking advantage of digital opportunities to provide customers with simpler, clearer and faster access to government services,” she said.

Ms Enoch said DSITI has partnered with the Office for Seniors, and Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services (DCCSDS) to develop a shared application process to streamline access to concessions for people aged over 65.

“Under the Senior Concessions pilot – expected to run until the end of the year – it has never been easier for people aged 65 and over to access their concessions and rebates,” Mr Enoch said.

“It also means people don't have to wait as long for approval on their rebate applications . We estimate the new service cuts the wait time from 20 or more days, to as little as a day.

“More than 1100 Queenslanders have used the new service, available since December 2016, which has also helped seniors and carers better understand what concessions are on offer.

“My department will continue to work with partners and all tiers of government to transform government services, including making it easier for Queenslanders to find out and access concessions and rebates available to them,” Ms Enoch said.

To access the service, visit https://www.qld.gov.au/seniors.

ENDS

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