Smart option for grey nomads

Mobile seniors now have access to a new, free mobile app that makes it easier to travel and work while receiving the Age Pension.

Federal Minister for Human Services Senator Kim Carr said the Express Plus Seniors App, available on smart phones and tablets, will make it easier for grey nomads to do business with the Government while travelling.

"We know many retired people travel for extended periods of time, and they're more reliant on mobile technology to manage their affairs,” Senator Carr said.

"The app means people can subscribe to online letters, as well as store letters and documents in their secure 'vault'. They are even able to capture and upload documents rather than posting hardcopies."

The Seniors App is also useful for the growing number of Age Pensioners who continued working beyond age pension age.

"The Australian Government's improved pension arrangements mean pensioners who receive employment income can earn more before their Age Pension is reduced under the Work Bonus," he said.

"With the Seniors App it is simpler to report income to Centrelink, making it even easier to capitalise on the Work Bonus.

"Last year, there were 1.7 million calls to Centrelink's senior phone line with each call taking an average of seven minutes. Most of that business will only take a minute or so using this app."

"More than 600,000 of Australia's 2.2 million pensioners are already registered to use Centrelink online services, so we expect the app to make a difference to a very large group of Australians."

The app also allows pensioners to view and update their details, claim an advance and request a Centrelink statement.

The Express Plus Seniors App is available from the App Store on iPhone, iPad and iPod touch or at itunes.com/appstore, while the Android version can be accessed through Google Play.