Missed Out on the Age Pension? You May Still Be Eligible for Valuable Concessions
If you've recently looked for help with your Age Pension application and found out you don’t qualify, don’t worry—you’re not alone, and you’re not without options. Many older Australians are surprised to learn that even if you're not eligible for the Age Pension, you may still be entitled to a wide range of concessions and discounts that can significantly ease the cost of living.
Whether you’re looking for Age Pension application help or trying to understand what support is available for seniors who don’t qualify, this guide will walk you through what else you may be able to access.
Concessions for Older Australians Without the Age Pension
The Victorian Government’s "Concessions at a Glance" guide outlines a number of supports available to seniors. These aren’t limited to those on the Age Pension—you may qualify based on age, income, or residency, even if your Age Pension claim was rejected.
📄 Download the Concessions Guide (PDF)
1. Help Through the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC)
If you’re a self-funded retiree who doesn’t qualify for the Age Pension, you may be eligible for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card. This card is not asset-tested and provides:
Cheaper PBS medicines
Possible bulk-billed GP visits
Concessions on utilities and transport (in participating states, including Victoria)
This is one of the most overlooked forms of assistance for older Australians not on the Age Pension.
2. Utility Concessions for Seniors
If you hold a CSHC or another eligible concession card, you could receive:
Electricity and Gas Concessions
Winter Energy Concession
Non-mains Energy Concession (for those using LPG, firewood, etc.)
You do not need to receive the Age Pension to apply—eligibility is based on the card you hold, not pension status.
3. Council Rates and Property Concessions
You may still be eligible for a Municipal Rates Concession through your local council if you have:
A Pensioner Concession Card, or
A Veterans Affairs Gold Card
These concessions provide a 50% discount (up to a capped amount) on your annual council rates.
4. Transport Concessions for Older Australians
If you’ve searched for transport help for seniors not on Age Pension, the Victorian Seniors Card is a great option. It’s available to those aged 60 and over, working less than 35 hours per week—no income or asset test required.
Benefits include:
Discounted public transport (including Seniors Myki)
Free travel during Victorian Seniors Week
Access to local business discounts across Victoria
5. Help with Applying for Seniors Cards and Concessions
If you’re unsure where to start or need assistance with your Age Pension application, many local support services and community centres can help. Even if you’re rejected for the Age Pension, professionals can guide you toward:
Applying for a Seniors Card
Getting the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
Connecting with local concessions and subsidies
Need Help with Your Age Pension Application or Appeal?
If you're overwhelmed or unsure about how to apply, appeal a Centrelink decision, or claim the right concessions as a senior, expert support is available.
👉 Visit AgePensionServices.com.au for personalised help with:
Your Age Pension application
Appealing Centrelink rejections
Accessing other entitlements like the CSHC or Seniors Card
Understanding what you’re eligible for—even if you don’t receive the pension
Our team specialises in guiding older Australians through the Centrelink process, ensuring no benefit is missed.