SUPPORT FOR PATERSON’S SENIORS

Bob Baldwin, Member for Paterson will today address local residents at the National Seniors Australia Forum.

Mr Baldwin will outline the Coalition’s policy to support seniors and take questions from the audience.

“A Coalition Government will implement a range of measures to support employment, secure retirement incomes, help with cost of living pressures and boost health services for seniors,” said Mr Baldwin.

“In my travels throughout the Paterson electorate I have witnessed the massive contribution made to our community by its older residents, who have invaluable knowledge and wisdom.

“Many of our seniors volunteer, but many have also told me they would love to contribute through the paid workforce.

“That is why a Coalition Government will introduce a Seniors Employment Incentive Payment to encourage employers to hire a jobseeker aged 50 years or older.

“We will also provide $7.5 million to establish the Safer Seniors Programme, which will allow local councils to apply for grants to establish activities such as safe routes programmes, personal security alarms and home safety audits.”

The Coalition is also committed to boosting health services across the region. A Coalition Government will provide $833 million to support GPS and boost Medicare to help ensure seniors have better access to after hours care, more preventative health care and better chronic disease management.

“A Coalition Government will boost after hours GP services and Medicare rebates so that people don’t have to travel to a hospital to see a doctor outside business hours,” said Mr Baldwin.

“Many seniors across the Paterson electorate have told me they rely on public transport so they need after-hours care close to home and that is what a Coalition Government will deliver.”

The Forum begins at 10:30am at Raymond Terrace Senior Citizens Community Centre.