The NSW Nationals will bring back the Regional Seniors Travel Card if successful at the 2027 election.
The Regional Seniors Travel Card will provide eligible seniors in regional NSW with a $250 prepaid card for fuel, taxis, and pre-booked train or coach tickets.
NSW Nationals Leader Gurmesh Singh said NSW is an incredible place to live, but there is no doubt the distance and isolation is a challenge especially for our seniors.
“An elected Nationals Government will reinstate the card and ensure the most vulnerable members of our communities are not left without the support they deserve again,” Mr Singh said.
Established in 2020 by the former Nationals Government, the Regional Seniors Travel Card saw more than 1.3 million people access more affordable transport before the program was axed by Chris Minns and Labor.
Shadow Seniors Minister Kevin Anderson said seniors living in the regions have fewer transport options than those in the city and deserve support to get to medical appointments, groceries, or connect with friends and family.
Shadow Regional Transport and Roads Minister Paul Toole said Labor’s scare campaign against the card will not be tolerated.
“This card is all about making daily life easier by helping ease the cost of living for regional seniors,” Mr Toole said.
President of the Grafton Senior Citizens, Brian Hall said members welcome the announcement that NSW Liberal and Nationals Government would reinstate the Regional Seniors Travel Card.
“For many seniors in regional communities, particularly pensioners, the rising cost of living is placing significant pressure on household budgets. The $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card helped ease that burden by assisting with essential travel costs,” Mr Hall said.
“Unlike people living in metropolitan areas, regional seniors often need to travel considerable distances to access medical appointments, specialist health services, shopping, and other essential services. We simply don’t have the same services or public transport options on our doorstep.
“The return of the Regional Seniors Travel Card would provide practical support to older Australians living in regional NSW and help reduce the financial strain faced by many seniors on fixed incomes.”
