The Victorian Labor Government’s push to move services exclusively online is unfairly disadvantaging seniors and other vulnerable Victorians, according to the State Member for Gippsland East and Shadow Minister for Disability, Ageing, Carers and Volunteers who raised the matter in the Victorian Parliament.

As government departments increasingly remove in person services, paper forms and alternative payment options, many older Victorians are being left unable to access rebates, licences and concessions they are entitled to.

“In a world where everything is being pushed online, the Government has forgotten that not everyone can safely or confidently operate in the digital space,” Mr Bull said.

“For many seniors, this is not a matter of convenience. It is a complete barrier to accessing essential services and support.”

Examples include the Victorian Government’s Power Saving Bonus, which requires eligible pensioners, veterans and health care card holders to apply online or miss out entirely.

Victorian Seniors Cards applications, CFA Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund tax exemptions, the Victorian Veterans Card and Game Management Authority licence testing all require online access and, in some cases, a personal email address.

“If you do not have a computer, reliable internet or an email address, the Government’s message is simple. Bad luck. You miss out,” Mr Bull said.

“This is digital discrimination, plain and simple.”

The push online is also placing seniors at greater risk of fraud. National data consistently shows older Australians are among the most financially impacted by scams, with people aged over 55 accounting for a disproportionate share of reported losses and being significantly more likely to lose money once targeted.

“We know seniors are more vulnerable to online scams and fraud, yet Labor continues to force them onto platforms they do not trust or understand,” Mr Bull said.

“This Government must stop designing services only for the tech savvy and restore safe, accessible, non-digital alternatives for those who need them.”

The Shadow Minister has called on the Labor Government to reinstate in person and paper-based alternatives across essential services to ensure no Victorian is disadvantaged.

Monday, 12 January 2026