An elected NSW Liberals and Nationals Government will reinstate the Regional Seniors Travel Card, delivering vital cost-of-living relief for seniors across regional communities including the Goulburn electorate.
Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman said the program would provide eligible seniors with a $250 prepaid card to help cover the cost of fuel, taxis, and pre-booked train or coach tickets.
“The Regional Seniors Travel Card made a real difference to so many older residents in our community, helping them stay connected and independent,” Mrs Tuckerman said.
“Chris Minns and Labor cut the program in 2023, despite strong community opposition and a petition of more than 22,000 signatures calling for it to be saved.
“From 2020 until it was axed by Labor, 55,589 cards were issued across the Goulburn electorate, delivering support worth more than $5.78 million to local seniors here.
“That is money that helped people attend medical appointments, visit loved ones, and manage everyday travel costs.”
Leader of the Opposition and NSW Liberal Leader, Kellie Sloane, said the Minns Labor Government has failed when it comes to providing cost-of-living support.
“One of Labor’s first actions when coming to government was to cut cost of living support relied upon by thousands of people across NSW. We know that with the increasing cost of fuel people are increasingly looking at ways to save, and we know that the Regional Seniors Travel Card will provide hip pocket relief,” Ms Sloane said.
NSW Nationals Leader and Shadow Minister for Regional NSW Gurmesh Singh 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.
Established in 2020 by the former Liberal and 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.