March 10, 2010
Pensioners across Gippsland will next week receive an increase in their payments under the indexation of benefits.
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said maximum fortnightly pension payments would increase by $29.20 to $701.10 for singles and by $44 to $1057 for couples from March 20, 2010.
Mr Chester has been a strong campaigner for increasing pension payments. Last year with the support of 2700 Gippslanders he initiated a successful campaign that ensured the Rudd Government honoured a commitment to significantly increase pension payments as part of the 2009-2010 Budget.
He said he would continue to fight for a fair go for Gippsland’s pensioners and ensure that they have a strong voice in Federal Parliament.
“The way the Gippsland community banded together last year helped to put pressure on the government and was one of the reasons why pensioners received a permanent increase during the budget,” Mr Chester said.
“Pensioners are particularly exposed to the increased cost of living as every day household items and essential services cost more. Next week’s increase via the indexation of benefits will provide some assistance but there’s more work to be done in this area.”