Seniors Expos and morning teas to connect older Queenslanders with support

Queensland seniors’ important role and contribution to the state will be recognised and boosted with a new series of informative events to be held throughout 2021.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk today welcomed seniors to the Bribie Island Seniors Expo and morning tea – the first of many that are planned for the year to connect seniors with government services and the millions of dollars of support that is available.

“Bribie Island seniors, just as everywhere in Queensland, have worked all their lives to help build our state, and they continue to play a vital part in keeping our communities thriving,” the Premier said.

“This year in return we will host these Expos to actively ensure that help and advice is not only available but it’s clear - for household budgets, local services, legal matters and personal safety.

“Today, seniors were able to connect face-to-face with experts on matters ranging from rebates and concessions to drivers’ licences, smoke alarms and staying safe from scams.

“Holding Seniors Expos in a relaxed setting with morning tea gives us the opportunity for conversations about engaging with government and thanking seniors for all they do.”

Minister for Seniors and Disability Services Craig Crawford said more Seniors Expo were planned in coming weeks and months.

“We know that the $450 million we invest in concessions and rebates save seniors thousands of dollars a year to help ease cost of living pressures,” Mr Crawford said.

“The Seniors Expos will help ensure Queensland seniors can access what they are entitled to.

“The Palaszczuk Government recognises the important role of seniors in Queensland and remains committed to building age-friendly communities that are accessible to everyone.

“We know we need to get our planning right to ensure that we have the right services in the right places for seniors now, and in the future.

“These events will also give Government the opportunity to listen to seniors to inform our planning.”

Member for Pumicestone Ali King said it had been a tough year for local seniors so she was delighted the first Queensland Government Seniors’ Morning Tea could be on Bribie Island.

“Older Queenslanders built our State and our focus is on delivering services to help make Queensland a more age-friendly place,” she said.

“Our Bribie Satellite Hospital to be completed in 2023 will make a real difference by reducing older people’s travel for hospital appointments.

“I think that’s just what the doctor ordered for Bribie seniors!”

For more information about concessions and rebates, visit the Smart Savings website.

Seniors can apply for the Queensland Seniors Cards and other concessions at www.seniors-concessions.services.qld.gov.au.

ENDS

Media Contact: Gemma Buxton 0477 445 331