LOCAL LIFE
Increase to the Centrelink Deeming
rates- what does that mean?
On 20 September, at the same time as benefit payments were indexed, Centrelink increased their Deeming rates, but do you know what Deeming is and how it can affect your Centrelink benefits?
Deeming is a set percentage used by Centrelink to work out the income from your financial assets. Financial assets include Bank Accounts, Shares, Managed Funds, Loans, some gifts, some income streams and if you are over retirement age, Superannuation. Deeming assumes you receive a set income from these assets whether you receive this income or not.
The upside is that you do not need to keep updating Centrelink when your income from these investments changes, and that any income you receive above the deeming rate won’ t affect your payment.
What do the changes mean? Both the deeming rates and thresholds have changed so people receiving an incometested pension or allowance may have their payment reduced, and people with a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card or Low Income Health Care Card may
become ineligible.
For example: Jackson, 70, is a single homeowner with $ 300,000 in financial assets($ 250k in an account-based pension and $ 50k in the bank). Currently, he is eligible for the full Age Pension of $ 30,646.20 p. a.($ 1,178.70 / fortnight).
After a 0.50 per cent deeming rate rise, his assessable income increases from $ 5,466 to $ 6,966 p. a., reducing his Age Pension to $ 29,997.20 p. a.($ 1,153.74 / fortnight) a decrease of $ 649 p. a. or $ 24.96 per fortnight.
If you have questions about your eligibility for the Age Pension, we offer personalised assistance in easy to understand language. Call us today, 1300 222 484.
A fresh new flavour at Westpoint Blacktown
The Level 3 Food Court reopens with a bold, modern new look and a feast of local favourites.
Westpoint Blacktown has unveiled its newly transformed Level 3 Food Court, bringing a fresh dining experience to the heart of the city. Designed with the community in mind, the vibrant new space blends modern comfort with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, creating the perfect destination for families, friends, and food lovers to meet, eat, and unwind.
The redevelopment forms part of Westpoint’ s ongoing commitment to enhancing the local shopping and leisure experience. With a dynamic mix of popular eateries and family friendly amenities, the Food Court promises to be a bustling hub of activity for locals and visitors alike.
Among the crowd favourites returning to the new space are trusted names such as KFC, Subway, Sushi Hub, Oporto, and McDonald’ s, alongside fresh additions that cater to every craving. From sizzling Asian flavours to classic comfort food, there’ s something for everyone on Level 3.
To celebrate the reopening, Westpoint is hosting special launch promotions, including a Kids Eat Free offer available at selected retailers. Families can enjoy great value while exploring the wide variety of dining options on offer; perfect for an after school treat or a weekend catch up.
“ Westpoint is at the heart of Blacktown’ s community, and this redevelopment reinforces our commitment to creating spaces that people love to visit,” a centre spokesperson said.
“ The new Level 3
Food Court isn’ t just about great food, it’ s about bringing people together.”
The revitalised dining precinct joins Westpoint’ s growing list of upgrades and activations aimed at improving the visitor experience and supporting local businesses. Whether you’ re grabbing a quick bite between shops or settling in for a family meal, the new Level 3 Food Court invites everyone to discover the flavour of Westpoint all over again.
For more details, visit www. westpoint. com. au.
Available during lunch trade only between 12pm until 3pm. Dine in only. Must present Senior’ s Card. A discount will be applied to the meal of equal or lesser value. Main meals consist of pizza, pasta, risotto and mains. Takeaway specials will be charged full price. Takeaway of specials will incur a surcharge. Commences Wednesday 3 September 2025 until Friday 28 November 2025. No substitutions or variations. Members price, members discount already applied. Members only special, must present membership card. No further discounts apply. Images are for illustrative purposes only. Offers not available on Public Holidays or special event days. Available until sold out. Available only during piazza trading hours.
CSIMARCONI
81 South Street, Schofields NSW 2762 Ph 02 9627 4435 www. csimarconi. com. au
BLACKTOWN CITY INDEPENDENT theindependentmagazine. com. au ISSUE 56 // NOVEMBER 2025 11