FINANCE
Are you eligible for rebates and
discounts from the Federal and State Government?
Did you know that the Age Pension is not only a payment, but also comes with a Pension Concession Card which provides significant discounts and rebates in NSW. The savings you might be eligible for with this card can total around $ 6,000 per year, so checking your eligibility for even a tiny part pension can be worthwhile.
The biggest discounts relate to medical bills and medications( federal government), council rates, vehicle registration, driver licence, electricity and water( NSW government). In the current economic climate, I’ m sure that every small discount helps! You can read more about the NSW government offering on the Service NSW Savings Finder, https:// assistance. service. nsw. gov. au / savingsfinder /
Whether you are still working and close to the upper limit of the income test( single $ 2,575pfn / couple $ 3,934pfn),
Blacktown will proudly celebrate International Women’ s Day on March 8, recognising the extraordinary contributions of women and the important role they play in shaping stronger, more connected communities.
International Women’ s Day is marked globally each year to honour the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, while also acknowledging the ongoing work needed to achieve gender equality. It is both a celebration and a call to action.
This year, Blacktown City Council is embracing the 2026 theme, # GiveToGain, which reflects the spirit of generosity, leadership and care shown by women throughout the community. The theme highlights the powerful idea that when women give their time, energy and support to others, the entire community benefits.
The # GiveToGain campaign encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration. It recognises that giving is not a loss, but an intentional investment in building opportunities, confidence and equality. Whether through volunteering, mentoring, leading organisations, supporting families, or championing local causes, women across
or have some savings and are close to the upper limit of the assets test( single homeowner $ 714,500 / couple homeowner $ 1,074,000), applying for the Age Pension is a great way to reduce your expenses.
We are here to help with eligibility checks and assistance in applying for the pension, so you don’ t have to deal with Centrelink directly. We complete all the online claim requirements, and follow up phone calls to Centrelink, so you don’ t have to. Call us to discuss your situation, phone 1300 222 484.
LOCAL LIFE
Blacktown celebrates International Women’ s Day with # GiveToGain theme
Blacktown continue to create lasting and meaningful change.
Blacktown is home to countless women who give selflessly every day— from community volunteers and carers to educators, business leaders, healthcare workers and advocates. Their efforts help strengthen neighbourhoods, support vulnerable residents, and inspire future generations.
As part of the celebrations, Blacktown City Woman of the Year 2026 will be announced.
International Women’ s Day serves as an important reminder that gender equality is everyone’ s responsibility. By recognising and supporting the women who give so much to their community, Blacktown continues to build a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
This March, the message is clear- when women give, the whole community gains.
BLACKTOWN CITY INDEPENDENT theindependentmagazine. com. au ISSUE 60 // MARCH 2026 11