3.9.3.20 CSHC Benefits
Concessions for CSHC holders
Benefits available to CSHC holders include:
- medicines listed under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) at the concessional rate,
- access to PBS prescriptions, generally without charge, for the remainder of the calendar year after reaching the PBS Safety Net,
- bulk-billed GP appointments, at the discretion of the GP (the Australian Government provides financial incentives for GPs to bulk-bill concession card holders),
- a reduction in the cost of out-of-hospital medical expenses above a concessional threshold, through the extended Medicare Safety Net,
- payment of the seniors supplement,
- concessional travel on Great Southern Rail services (the Indian Pacific, the Ghan, the Overland), and
- in some instances, additional health, household, transport, education and recreation concessions which may be offered by state or territory and local governments and private providers. However these providers offer these concessions at their own discretion, and the availability of these concessions may vary from state to state.
Act reference: SSAct section 1061U Qualification for seniors supplement
Policy reference: SS Guide 1.2.10.20 Seniors Supplement - Description, 3.12.2 Seniors Supplement - Qualification & Payability
Dependants (1.1.D.65) not entitled to concessions
Dependants of CSHC holders are NOT entitled to concessions. CSHC holders with dependants can test their eligibility for a HCC. CSHC holders who qualify can hold both cards.
Duration of CSHC
The CSHC is valid for 12 months and is reissued on 1 August each year provided CSHC holders continue to meet the eligibility requirements.
Act reference: SSAct section 1061ZG Qualification rules
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Last reviewed: 7 June 2010
