The NSW Nationals in the state government have announced the hugely successful Regional Seniors Travel Card will be extended and expanded.
The card, which puts $250 in the pocket of eligible regional seniors, was initially promised for two years at the 2019 election.
Such has been the success and the demand that the NSW Nationals in the state government are extending it for another two years and expanding it to even more seniors living in the regions.
The card helps ease the burden of travel costs for eligible seniors in regional, rural and remote areas of NSW by providing them with a $250 prepaid Visa card to be used towards pre-booked NSW TrainLink, regional train and coach services, fuel, and taxis.
In 2020, 337,500 Regional Seniors Travel cards were issued.
Last year the figure rose to 354,000.
That’s more than 691,000 since the card was launched.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the Regional Seniors Travel Card has been an overwhelming success.
“We know what a difference this is making to the lives of our regional seniors, so we’ve committed $246 million to continue the program until the end of 2023, as well as expand the eligibility to include seniors who are carers and those with disabilities,” Mr Toole said.
Nationals Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said the initiative has injected more than $131 million into regional economies, benefitting local taxi operators and fuel stations.
“By putting an extra $250 in the pockets of our regional seniors, we are boosting access to safe and convenient travel, as well as reducing the burden on people who often have fewer transport options than those living in the city,” Mr Farraway said.
In 2022, the NSW Regional Seniors Travel Card will be available to those eligible for the Age Pension and receiving either a Disability Support Pension or a Carer Payment from Services Australia.
Applications are now open, and close on November 20.
To find out more, or to apply, go to https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/regionalseniorstravel
