DISABILITY PENSION

In reply to the Hon. D.G.E. HOOD (9 March 2011).

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Public Sector Management, Minister for the Status of Women, Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Government Enterprises, Minister for Gambling): The Minister for Disability is advised:

The rules guiding Centrelink in working out appropriate benefits for a married couple are firmly established in legislation. Married couples living in Supported Residential Facilities are eligible for benefits at the standard married disability pension rate, plus rent assistance.

Once alerted to this matter the Department for Families and Communities contacted the facility and as a result their residential fees have been adjusted, from $627.10 to $362.34 a fortnight each. This has been back dated to 18 September 2010.

Sunnydale Rest Home is a licensed facility operating in the private sector. Receipt of board and care funding, valued at $4,708 per resident annually, is conditional on fees not exceeding 79 per cent of the combined pension and rent assistance.

All 30 of the 'pension only' Supported Residential Facilities in this State contracted with the Government to receive Board and Care funding, designed to assist with facilities' operating costs and enhance viability and standards of service.

I appreciate the Honourable Member bringing this matter to my attention.