More than 100 people attended seniors’ forums at Toukley 50 Plus Leisure & Learning Centre and Long Jetty Over 50s Club, hosted by Member for Dobell Emma McBride.
The events offered invaluable opportunities for residents to hear directly from their Federal Member of Parliament and gain insights into the government’s efforts to support seniors on the Central Coast.
Attendees benefited from presentations by Services Australia representatives, who specialise in aged care and financial information and who provided face-to-face advice, addressing individual concerns and offering guidance on services.
A representative from the National Broadband Network (NBN) was also present informing attendees about how to upgrade their internet services through a government program.
Everyone took home materials from support services including from the Older Persons Advocacy Network, the ACCC’s Little Black Book of Scams and a copy of McBride’s Central Coast Seniors Kit.
The kit contains information on payment rates, aged care support, and important contact details to assist older Australians.
McBride said the Albanese Labor Government was supporting seniors by strengthening Medicare and tripling the bulk billing incentive, freezing the cost of PBS medicines to $7.70, increasing the age pension and investing $2.2B to improve aged care.
“Over eight years as your Federal MP, I’ve hosted seniors forums across our community so that seniors are up-to-date and supported to access essential local and national services,” McBride said.
“I’ve worked hard to get seniors on the Central Coast their fair share, including increases to the age pension, cheaper medicines, and a better aged care system.
“I would encourage any local seeking Federal Government assistance to contact my office.
“Me and my team are always here to help.”
Seniors who would like more information can request a kit by visiting emmamcbride.com.au/seniors or calling 4353 0127.