Seniors living in Regional NSW will continue to benefit from the regional seniors travel card with applications for year two opening on Monday 18 January 2021.
The regional seniors travel card is a $250 prepaid Visa card designed to assist eligible seniors in regional, rural and remote areas of NSW offset the cost of essential travel expenses.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said more than 337,000 regional seniors had benefitted from the card in the first year of the two-year trial.
“The regional seniors travel card has been an overwhelming success in its first year and has already injected more than $60 million into regional communities,” Mr Toole said.
“It’s eased the burden of travel costs for seniors living in the bush who often have fewer transport options than those living in big cities like Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong. This has meant the difference between an extra few trips to visit grandkids living in other parts of the State, the ease of staying connected locally or just getting to medical appointments or the shops.
“I’m pleased to announce it will be returning in 2021, and I encourage all eligible seniors to apply from 18 January next year.”
Eligible seniors have from 18 January to 30 November 2021 to apply for a card which can be used for fuel, taxis and pre-booked TrainLink services.
Seniors must be an age pensioner with a valid Pensioner Concession Card or hold a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card issued by either the Department of Human Services or Department of Veterans’ Affairs. They must also permanently live in regional NSW outside Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong.
With ongoing concerns about coronavirus, we are encouraging seniors to apply online at service.nsw.gov.au or by calling 13 77 88, rather than visiting a Service NSW Service Centre.
For those who need to, seniors can find their nearest Service NSW Service Centre location at service.nsw.gov.au.