Aged already feeling pinch

Retirees scraping to get by are apparently at the bottom of the economic ladder. Photo / File

There's been a lot said about the hardships faced by pensioners of late.

In recent weeks we have reported that retirees who rely on the pension as their sole source of income are living on about $113.35 after rent and of that $70.73 is spent on food and power. We've also reported concerns about the alarmingly high elderly suicide rate after new figures revealed the highest suicide rate was among men aged over 85.

Many people in their twilight years are doing it tough.

It is disappointing then to learn residents of a Pyes Pa lifestyle village appear to be paying more than their fair share of rates.

Havenbrook Village residents are to confront Mayor Stuart Crosby today, along with representatives from Orange Grove Village, Bridgewater Village and Harbour View Park.

The Havenbrook residents are paying between $1800 and $2000 in rates and yet they pay for amenities such as roading, footpaths and maintenance through a body corporate.

It appears they are paying for these amenities twice.

Resident Adele McAinch says residents are not seeking a huge reduction but that the current charges are unfair.

The council does not maintain their roads and residents in the area have small sections and small houses.

Mr Crosby, who says residents are paying slightly less than average, is looking into what rates rebates they might be entitled to.

Hopefully a solution can be reached that is fair to all.