Media Release: Liberals and Nationals Government to Reinstate Regional Seniors Travel Card

LIBERAL AND NATIONALS GOVERNMENT TO REINSTATE REGIONAL SENIORS TRAVEL CARD

An elected NSW Liberals and Nationals Government will reinstate the Regional Seniors Travel Card, providing eligible seniors in regional NSW with a $250 prepaid card to help cover the cost of fuel, taxis and pre-booked train and coach services.

Member for Albury Justin Clancy said the commitment would restore a program that delivered meaningful cost-of-living relief to seniors across regional NSW before it was abolished by the Minns Labor Government in 2023.

"Regional seniors don't have the same transport options available in metropolitan areas. Whether it's travelling to a medical appointment, visiting family, attending community activities or doing the weekly shopping, many people have no choice but to travel significant distances," Mr Clancy said.

"The Regional Seniors Travel Card provided valuable cost-of-living relief, and its removal was disappointing for many seniors across our region.

"Our community strongly opposed Labor's decision to scrap the program, with more than 22,000 people signing our petition to save it. Restoring the card will put money back into the pockets of regional seniors and help them stay connected, independent and active in their communities."

Leader of the Opposition and NSW Liberal Leader Kellie Sloane said reinstating the Regional Seniors Travel Card was part of the Liberals and Nationals' commitment to easing cost-of-living pressures across NSW.

"One of Labor's first actions after coming to government was to cut support that thousands of regional seniors relied upon," Ms Sloane said.

"With fuel and transport costs continuing to place pressure on household budgets, we know the Regional Seniors Travel Card will provide practical hip-pocket relief for people who need it most."

NSW Nationals Leader and Shadow Minister for Regional NSW Gurmesh Singh said regional seniors deserved access to support that recognised the unique challenges of living outside metropolitan areas.

"People in regional and rural communities often have fewer transport options and must travel further to access healthcare, essential services, groceries and social connections," Mr Singh said.

"The Regional Seniors Travel Card helped ease those costs and improve mobility for older residents. The Liberals and Nationals are committed to bringing it back."

The Regional Seniors Travel Card was introduced by the former NSW Liberals and Nationals Government in 2020. During its operation, more than 1.3 million cards were issued to eligible seniors across regional NSW before the program was discontinued by the Minns Labor Government.