The state government has announced the Regional Seniors Travel Card trial will enter its second year after enjoying extended success throughout 2020.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Across the Bathurst local government area [LGA], 3909 eligible seniors signed up for the card, which comes pre-loaded with $250 for use on trains, buses, taxis and at service stations to purchase fuel.
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said the card has unlocked $977,250 worth of value to the local area, providing greater travel incentives for senior citizens.
"The card has been a huge success in NSW, with 337,000 eligible pensioners signing on for the scheme across the state over the past 12 months," Mr Toole said.
"It has been the point of difference for regional residents maintaining regular medical appointments, doing the shopping and meeting up with family and friends."
Mr Toole said the money spent via the card resurfaces within the local economy to support transport operators.
"The expenditure supports our local taxi operators and service stations, providing economic stimulus within our local region," he said.
"This is the first time we've seen a subsidised transport scheme like this rolled out in regional areas, and it's clear seniors are seeing the benefits."
Bathurst Rail Action Network chair John Hollis, who is also a member of Bathurst's Combined Pensioners and Superannuants Association [CPSA], said the card has been useful for seniors after flexible travel assistance.
"The government has been very active looking at regional transport as whole, and this card is, in many ways, icing on the cake," Mr Hollis said.
"It's encouraging senior citizens to get out of the house and travel, which is a key component in ensuring the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle."
Bathurst Taxis production development and marketing manager Paul Shanahan said the card has also encouraged seniors to take a taxi with lessened financial stress.
"We've found the card has encouraged seniors to use a taxi more, and given the last 12 months we've had with COVID-19, the scheme couldn't have been more timely."
Eligible seniors must live outside the greater Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong areas, and have a minimum of 12 months to use their card from the time of activation.
They must also hold a valid Pensioner Concession Card or a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card issued by either the Department of Human Services or Department of Veterans' Affairs.
To apply, visit www.service.nsw.gov.au, call 137788 or visit a Sevice NSW centre. Applications close November 30, 2021.
Have something to say? Speak your mind!
- Send a letter to the editor