More seniors in the Clarence electorate used the Regional Seniors Travel Card than anywhere else in regional NSW before the Minns Labor Government scrapped it in 2023, and Grafton’s pensioners have not forgotten.
Member for Clarence Richie Williamson has welcomed a NSW Nationals pledge to reinstate the popular $250 prepaid card if the Coalition wins government in 2027.
The card let eligible seniors in regional NSW put money towards fuel, taxis and pre-booked NSW TrainLink train and coach services.
“From 2020 until Labor axed the program in 2023, a remarkable 112,195 Regional Seniors Travel Cards were issued across the Clarence electorate, delivering more than $13 million in assistance to local seniors,” Mr Williamson said.
“That was the highest take-up of any regional electorate in New South Wales and proves beyond doubt how valuable this program was to people living in regional communities.
“The reality is that regional seniors don’t have the same transport options as their metropolitan counterparts.
“Many need to travel significant distances for medical appointments, specialist treatment, shopping, family commitments and everyday services.”
Mr Williamson said Labor had failed to grasp what life was like outside the cities.
“Labor simply doesn’t understand the challenges that come with living in regional NSW,” he said.
“They abolished a program that was making a real difference to the lives of seniors across our communities at a time when cost-of-living pressures were already biting hard.
“The NSW Nationals fought hard to save the Regional Seniors Travel Card, with more than 22,000 people signing a petition opposing Labor’s decision to scrap it.
“I am pleased that a future Liberal and Nationals Government has committed to bringing it back because regional seniors deserve practical support that recognises the extra costs they face simply because of where they live.”
President of Grafton Senior Citizens Brian Hall said his members had welcomed the commitment.
“For many seniors in regional communities, particularly pensioners, the rising cost of living is placing significant pressure on household budgets,” Mr Hall said.
“The $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card helped ease that burden by assisting with essential travel costs.”
Mr Hall said the card had made up for a lack of transport options in the bush.
“Unlike people living in metropolitan areas, regional seniors often need to travel considerable distances to access medical appointments, specialist health services, shopping and other essential services,” he said.
“We simply don’t have the same services or public transport options on our doorstep.
“The return of the Regional Seniors Travel Card would provide practical support to older Australians living in regional NSW and help reduce the financial strain faced by many seniors on fixed incomes.”
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