As the Rudd Government’s equality bills attract praise, an Adelaide-based researcher claims amendments to the Aged Care Act and those affecting social security could cause serious psychological damage and disruption to the lives of closeted elderly gay men and lesbians.
Dr Jo Harrison says the changes, which will now recognise same-sex couples, could force elderly couples who are not out to declare their relationship or be investigated by Centrelink to prevent them from claiming two single pensions and to also enforce means testing, which would most likely reduce payments.
‘The consequences of the reforms on closeted elderly people are a form of elder abuse, particularly psychological and emotional abuse as well as financial inequity,’ she said.
Dr Harrison, who made several submissions to the Senate during the passage of the legislation, argues that in a closeted relationship, should one partner need residential care, the couple’s house would be included in the assets test, thus forcing a choice between paying more for care and potentially having to sell the house, or declare their relationship and be forced out to friends, family and support workers who may not support their relationship.
Dr Harrison cited examples of couples who, knowing they would lose out by declaring their relationship, are considering separating.
‘In most cases people will lose money, and for some it will be substantial,’ she said.
Harrison argued for a clause for elderly people to allow them to opt in to the changes at a later time without any penalties or back payments, but it was not adopted by the Senate.
Several members of the community are involved with Centrelink’s community reference group to monitor the changes.
‘The government has not always been discreet in these matters, so it is important that Centrelink workers and other agencies are trained appropriately on issues of disclosure, especially in relation to elderly gay men and lesbians,’ said Corey Irlam of the Australian Coalition for Equality and a member of the community reference group.
Social security payments will remain unaffected until July 1, 2009.
