Religious practitioners who receive only nominal payments for their work are now eligible for a NSW Seniors Card – thanks to a nun who made a case for change late last year to the NSW Minister for Ageing and Disability Services, Kristina Keneally.
Ms Keneally said she was approached by Sister Janice Duggan through an extended family member, and convinced to amend eligibility criteria for the NSW Seniors Card and enable religious practitioners over the age of 60 to access its great benefits.
"Those working as religious practitioners dedicate many hours, over and above the 20 hour limit for a NSW Seniors Card, to activities that help improve our local communities," Ms Keneally said.
"Often these people only receive nominal payments for their work, and it seemed only fair to change the criteria and give them the same benefits, concessions and business discounts that 1.1 million other seniors in NSW already enjoy.
"I’m pleased to announce today that religious practitioners over the age of 60 who work more than 20 hours per week and receive a stipend or living allowance instead of a wage, are now eligible for a NSW Seniors Card."
Sister Janice welcomed the move saying she was pleased that the Iemma Government was listening to her concerns.
"I explained to Minister Keneally that I was not eligible to apply for a Seniors Card even though I receive a living allowance instead of a wage," Sister Janice said.
"This change will mean people from a variety of religions who dedicate many hours to their work and the people in their communities will benefit from the help the Government has extended through the NSW Seniors Card."
Ms Keneally said it was expected that the move would make a big difference to the lives of the small number of people who were previously caught in the catch 22.
"I am pleased that we were able to address the concerns raised by Sister Janice and that as a result we are giving back something to those who give so much to our communities."
Ms Keneally said that the application form for the NSW Seniors Card had been amended to include religious practitioners and that it could be found online on the Seniors Card website.
For more information or to apply for a NSW Seniors Card visit http://www.seniorscard.nsw.gov.au or call the Seniors Information Service on 131 244.