Pensioners’ phone bills set to increase

Pensioners’ phone bills are set to rise with both Telstra and Optus imposing new billing systems.

In what can only be described as a money grab, Telstra will charge calls in 30 second blocks instead of the current per second charge. The changes will take effect at the end of this month.

“These changes by the major communication providers are going to hurt those who can least afford a price increase. Pensioners try to limit their phone calls as much as possible to save a few dollars, but these changes will only increase their bills” said Charmaine Crowe, CPSA Policy Coordinator.

Not to be outdone, Optus will begin to charge $2.20 for each paper bill as of 1 May in order to encourage customers to use a complex online service. There is no exemption for pensioners, many of whom don’t have access to the internet.

“Many pensioners cannot afford a computer or an internet connection, so accessing their bills online is out of the question.”

“It is shameful that Optus expects pensioners to pay for paper bills. Pensioners should be exempt from such a charge.”

Media contact: 0410 612 182

Charmaine Crowe
Policy Coordinator
Combined Pensioners and Superannuants Association (CPSA)
Level 9, 28 Foveaux Street Surry Hills NSW, 2010
Phone (02) 9281 3588
Mob 0410 612 182
Fax (02) 9281 9716