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State Budget to save household budgets The Palaszczuk Government will commit $5.3 billion in next week’s State Budget to help Queenslanders’ household budgets, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said. “My Government knows the importance of Queenslanders having a job and being able to support their families,” the Premier said. “The next State Budget will focus on creating jobs, delivering on key priorities of health and education, and helping Queenslanders manage the cost of living.” “That is why we have increased the access to electricity rebates and, ahead of the State Budget, we are launching a dedicated website to ensure Queenslanders are aware of all the concessions and rebates that are available for them. "For the 2017-18 financial year, the Government is allocating an extra $400 million for a total of $5.3 billion. That's the equivalent of more than $1000 for every Queenslander or the equivalent of more than $100 million every week." “I am concerned too many people just don’t know what they’re entitled to, let alone how much they could benefit.” Some of the less well known concessions and loans include:
“The Smart Savings website brings together all of the Government’s many concessions and rebates into one location, making it easier for Queenslanders to find and apply for them,” the Premier said. “Smart Savings is all about helping Queenslanders save money on everyday living expenses so they have more money in their pocket” the Premier said. “The Smart Savings website has 16 categories of concessions and rebates. These categories cover everything from energy and transport to health and housing. “There are a range of special discounted rates for seniors, people with health issues, young people going into training and many more. “Queenslanders who live in regional and remote areas can also access special rebates to help ensure they’re not paying more for things like electricity, water and healthcare because of where they live.” Treasurer Curtis Pitt said cost of living was an important issue for Queenslanders and these concessions and rebates can make a real difference in easing people’s financial worries. “All Queenslanders are encouraged to check the Smart Savings website for concessions and rebates that might be available to them, apply and start saving. “It’s not just families who will benefit.” Visit www.qld.gov.au/smartsavings to access Smart Savings or contact the Queensland Government call centre 13QGOV (13 74 68). The top ten concessions by total Government spend:
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