Many of us know how important it can be to stay independent for as long as possible. Aussies over 60 are becoming more and more independent each day, especially in regional areas.

However, the cost of living in these regions can be quite exorbitant at times, and that’s why many might need some help.

If you’re one of them, you might be interested to know that the NSW Nationals Party launched a petition to save the Regional Seniors Travel Card—an e-card designed to help reduce travel costs and allow seniors to maintain their independence.

Introduced in 2019 and available in over one million instances since 2020, the $250 prepaid Visa card can be used to cover expenses such as fuel, electric charging stations, pre-booked transport (like train and coach trips), and even taxis.

NSW Nationals MPs have started a petition to save the $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card from potential budget cuts. Credit: NSW Nationals.

In response to budget cuts threatened by the Labor Government, Nationals Party Leader Dugald Saunders called on regional residents and fellow politicians to lend their support and sign the petition to help save this vital cost-of-living tool from the chopping block.

'It would be a backward step by Labor to cut this cost-of-living measure, and I hope some of our regionally-based Labor MPs sign this petition as well,' he said.

He’s not the only one who sees the serious value in this card, Nationals’ Shadow Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Sam Farraway, has also expressed his support.

'Over 360,000 seniors travel cards were issued last year, and we are seeing that demand continue to grow as cost-of-living pressures stack up,' Farraway said.

Phil Knight from Dubbo said that since he and his wife both use their cards, it’s opened up a whole new assortment of activities and opportunities they wouldn’t have been able to do independently.

'Both of us having access to a $250 card means we certainly travel more and see family and friends, but it’s also sometimes a nice help with just getting to the doctor or picking up groceries,' he said.

The independence this card brings has been life-changing for many seniors.

In the words of Ray and Margaret Shipley from the Central Coast: 'Without the Regional Seniors Travel Card, we would have to cut back on the number of activities and appointments we go to every week. It really is a lifeline for us living on the Central Coast,' they said.

Key Takeaways

• NSW Nationals MPs have started a petition to save the $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card from potential budget cuts.
• The card, which offers value for travel-related expenses, has been issued to over one million seniors since 2020, supporting their independent travel.
• Seniors living in regional NSW vouch for the card's value, affirming it helps them in various activities, including connecting with family and friends—even essential visits like trips to the doctor.
• To support the cause and help save the Regional Seniors Travel Card, readers can sign the petition at www.savethetravelcard.com.au.

To apply for a Regional Seniors Travel Card (RSTC), follow these steps:

1. Check the eligibility requirements.

2. Read the Product Disclosure Statement and the full Terms and Conditions.

3. Click on the 'Apply online' button on the RSTC website.

4. Log in to your existing MyServiceNSW Account or create a new one.

5. Follow the prompts to complete and submit the online form.

Your details will be verified, and if your application is successful, you will receive your card and PIN within 20 business days. Please note that the card and PIN will arrive in separate envelopes.

We here at the SDC sincerely hope that this card and other similar programs remain active, as it can be such a major help to seniors in maintaining their independence and travelling within their regions.

It only takes a few minutes for those interested in lending their support and signing the petition to save the Regional Seniors Travel Card. Visit www.savethetravelcard.com.au to add your signature now!

What are your thoughts on this, members? Feel free to leave a comment below!

 

[Suzanne rose]

Why take away from seniors , thus is a great incentive to get people out and about.

My mother uses hers for 2 return train trips a year from Taree to Sydney. If she didn't have this she wouldn't make the trip.

 

[Luckyus]

Many of us know how important it can be to stay independent for as long as possible. Aussies over 60 are becoming more and more independent each day, especially in regional areas.

However, the cost of living in these regions can be quite exorbitant at times, and that’s why many might need some help.

If you’re one of them, you might be interested to know that the NSW Nationals Party launched a petition to save the Regional Seniors Travel Card—an e-card designed to help reduce travel costs and allow seniors to maintain their independence.

Introduced in 2019 and available in over one million instances since 2020, the $250 prepaid Visa card can be used to cover expenses such as fuel, electric charging stations, pre-booked transport (like train and coach trips), and even taxis.

View attachment 23645

NSW Nationals MPs have started a petition to save the $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card from potential budget cuts. Credit: NSW Nationals.

In response to budget cuts threatened by the Labor Government, Nationals Party Leader Dugald Saunders called on regional residents and fellow politicians to lend their support and sign the petition to help save this vital cost-of-living tool from the chopping block.

'It would be a backward step by Labor to cut this cost-of-living measure, and I hope some of our regionally-based Labor MPs sign this petition as well,' he said.

He’s not the only one who sees the serious value in this card, Nationals’ Shadow Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Sam Farraway, has also expressed his support.

'Over 360,000 seniors travel cards were issued last year, and we are seeing that demand continue to grow as cost-of-living pressures stack up,' Farraway said.

Phil Knight from Dubbo said that since he and his wife both use their cards, it’s opened up a whole new assortment of activities and opportunities they wouldn’t have been able to do independently.

'Both of us having access to a $250 card means we certainly travel more and see family and friends, but it’s also sometimes a nice help with just getting to the doctor or picking up groceries,' he said.

The independence this card brings has been life-changing for many seniors.

In the words of Ray and Margaret Shipley from the Central Coast: 'Without the Regional Seniors Travel Card, we would have to cut back on the number of activities and appointments we go to every week. It really is a lifeline for us living on the Central Coast,' they said.

Key Takeaways

• NSW Nationals MPs have started a petition to save the $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card from potential budget cuts.
• The card, which offers value for travel-related expenses, has been issued to over one million seniors since 2020, supporting their independent travel.
• Seniors living in regional NSW vouch for the card's value, affirming it helps them in various activities, including connecting with family and friends—even essential visits like trips to the doctor.
• To support the cause and help save the Regional Seniors Travel Card, readers can sign the petition at www.savethetravelcard.com.au.

To apply for a Regional Seniors Travel Card (RSTC), follow these steps:

1. Check the eligibility requirements.

2. Read the Product Disclosure Statement and the full Terms and Conditions.

3. Click on the 'Apply online' button on the RSTC website.

4. Log in to your existing MyServiceNSW Account or create a new one.

5. Follow the prompts to complete and submit the online form.

Your details will be verified, and if your application is successful, you will receive your card and PIN within 20 business days. Please note that the card and PIN will arrive in separate envelopes.

We here at the SDC sincerely hope that this card and other similar programs remain active, as it can be such a major help to seniors in maintaining their independence and travelling within their regions.

It only takes a few minutes for those interested in lending their support and signing the petition to save the Regional Seniors Travel Card. Visit www.savethetravelcard.com.au to add your signature now!

What are your thoughts on this, members? Feel free to leave a comment below!

All these political parties forget that the grey army is getting stronger, and we still vote

 

[1515]

Many of us know how important it can be to stay independent for as long as possible. Aussies over 60 are becoming more and more independent each day, especially in regional areas.

However, the cost of living in these regions can be quite exorbitant at times, and that’s why many might need some help.

If you’re one of them, you might be interested to know that the NSW Nationals Party launched a petition to save the Regional Seniors Travel Card—an e-card designed to help reduce travel costs and allow seniors to maintain their independence.

Introduced in 2019 and available in over one million instances since 2020, the $250 prepaid Visa card can be used to cover expenses such as fuel, electric charging stations, pre-booked transport (like train and coach trips), and even taxis.

View attachment 23645

NSW Nationals MPs have started a petition to save the $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card from potential budget cuts. Credit: NSW Nationals.

In response to budget cuts threatened by the Labor Government, Nationals Party Leader Dugald Saunders called on regional residents and fellow politicians to lend their support and sign the petition to help save this vital cost-of-living tool from the chopping block.

'It would be a backward step by Labor to cut this cost-of-living measure, and I hope some of our regionally-based Labor MPs sign this petition as well,' he said.

He’s not the only one who sees the serious value in this card, Nationals’ Shadow Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Sam Farraway, has also expressed his support.

'Over 360,000 seniors travel cards were issued last year, and we are seeing that demand continue to grow as cost-of-living pressures stack up,' Farraway said.

Phil Knight from Dubbo said that since he and his wife both use their cards, it’s opened up a whole new assortment of activities and opportunities they wouldn’t have been able to do independently.

'Both of us having access to a $250 card means we certainly travel more and see family and friends, but it’s also sometimes a nice help with just getting to the doctor or picking up groceries,' he said.

The independence this card brings has been life-changing for many seniors.

In the words of Ray and Margaret Shipley from the Central Coast: 'Without the Regional Seniors Travel Card, we would have to cut back on the number of activities and appointments we go to every week. It really is a lifeline for us living on the Central Coast,' they said.

Key Takeaways

• NSW Nationals MPs have started a petition to save the $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card from potential budget cuts.
• The card, which offers value for travel-related expenses, has been issued to over one million seniors since 2020, supporting their independent travel.
• Seniors living in regional NSW vouch for the card's value, affirming it helps them in various activities, including connecting with family and friends—even essential visits like trips to the doctor.
• To support the cause and help save the Regional Seniors Travel Card, readers can sign the petition at www.savethetravelcard.com.au.

To apply for a Regional Seniors Travel Card (RSTC), follow these steps:

1. Check the eligibility requirements.

2. Read the Product Disclosure Statement and the full Terms and Conditions.

3. Click on the 'Apply online' button on the RSTC website.

4. Log in to your existing MyServiceNSW Account or create a new one.

5. Follow the prompts to complete and submit the online form.

Your details will be verified, and if your application is successful, you will receive your card and PIN within 20 business days. Please note that the card and PIN will arrive in separate envelopes.

We here at the SDC sincerely hope that this card and other similar programs remain active, as it can be such a major help to seniors in maintaining their independence and travelling within their regions.

It only takes a few minutes for those interested in lending their support and signing the petition to save the Regional Seniors Travel Card. Visit www.savethetravelcard.com.au to add your signature now!

What are your thoughts on this, members? Feel free to leave a comment below!

Why is Wollongong not eligible for $250 travel card we pay the same price to travel as every were else

 

[Suzanne rose]

Why is Wollongong not eligible for $250 travel card we pay the same price to travel as every were else

Sydney isn't eligible either. Wollongong isn't considered country it's now The city of Wollongong.

If I want to visit my mother I need to pay normal price but if my mother comes to Sydney from Taree she gets it

 

[peterb6a]

Hands off all regional seniors travel cards NOW and always keep your political greedy, grubby hands off them permanently!

 

[goodmorning]

yes we dont get much us pensioners they will take it off us and give it to child care they seem to get everything these days

 

[AlanQ]

All these political parties forget that the grey army is getting stronger, and we still vote

but not in a block, those couple of 'protest' votes in a splattering of electorates has absolutely no effect, given these cards (may) have been used by people in rural seats they most likely vote for the (useless) National party.

 

[AlanQ]

Of the 350k cards issues how many were actually used, would suggest like most electronic cards that collect information, the data would show insignificant usage and as such not going to cause that great an upset. The concession card issued by the Feds would most likely provide exactly the same outcome without a State politician making a minor policy a photo opportunity (as shown here). Seniors cards are also accepted with the same discount and include a couple of free travel vouchers for each year.

 

[mylittletibbies]

We get a $575 fuel card here in WA, can also be used for taxis.
You must be a pensioner and live over 100kms from Perth. One per family.
This is to help people living remotely with travel expenses, not for city people who want to make an occasional trip to the country.
City people get free public transport from 9am to 3pm on weekdays and all day on weekends and public holidays.
I think that's quite reasonable.Hope our pollies don't try to change this, there would be an uproar I would think.
Why don't they consider cutting some of their over generous benefits if they want to cut costs???

 

[Gsr]

Seniors cards don’t help pay for fuel costs, most people in rural areas need a car as there is very little access to public transport. If we want to use public transport first we have to drive our car to a train station or bus stop to catch it. We live in an area where there is very limited public transport so we rely on our car to get everywhere, having these fuel cards is a big help with our fuel costs. It really is time the politicians stopped treating country folks like they aren’t important, after all we pay tax the same as the whingers who live in the cities and get most of the benefits dished out by politicians. If the fuel cards are cut then the free rego and any other toll and parking related benefits given to city whingers should also be cut.

 

[Bizzybees]

Many of us know how important it can be to stay independent for as long as possible. Aussies over 60 are becoming more and more independent each day, especially in regional areas.

However, the cost of living in these regions can be quite exorbitant at times, and that’s why many might need some help.

If you’re one of them, you might be interested to know that the NSW Nationals Party launched a petition to save the Regional Seniors Travel Card—an e-card designed to help reduce travel costs and allow seniors to maintain their independence.

Introduced in 2019 and available in over one million instances since 2020, the $250 prepaid Visa card can be used to cover expenses such as fuel, electric charging stations, pre-booked transport (like train and coach trips), and even taxis.

View attachment 23645

NSW Nationals MPs have started a petition to save the $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card from potential budget cuts. Credit: NSW Nationals.

In response to budget cuts threatened by the Labor Government, Nationals Party Leader Dugald Saunders called on regional residents and fellow politicians to lend their support and sign the petition to help save this vital cost-of-living tool from the chopping block.

'It would be a backward step by Labor to cut this cost-of-living measure, and I hope some of our regionally-based Labor MPs sign this petition as well,' he said.

He’s not the only one who sees the serious value in this card, Nationals’ Shadow Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Sam Farraway, has also expressed his support.

'Over 360,000 seniors travel cards were issued last year, and we are seeing that demand continue to grow as cost-of-living pressures stack up,' Farraway said.

Phil Knight from Dubbo said that since he and his wife both use their cards, it’s opened up a whole new assortment of activities and opportunities they wouldn’t have been able to do independently.

'Both of us having access to a $250 card means we certainly travel more and see family and friends, but it’s also sometimes a nice help with just getting to the doctor or picking up groceries,' he said.

The independence this card brings has been life-changing for many seniors.

In the words of Ray and Margaret Shipley from the Central Coast: 'Without the Regional Seniors Travel Card, we would have to cut back on the number of activities and appointments we go to every week. It really is a lifeline for us living on the Central Coast,' they said.

Key Takeaways

• NSW Nationals MPs have started a petition to save the $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card from potential budget cuts.
• The card, which offers value for travel-related expenses, has been issued to over one million seniors since 2020, supporting their independent travel.
• Seniors living in regional NSW vouch for the card's value, affirming it helps them in various activities, including connecting with family and friends—even essential visits like trips to the doctor.
• To support the cause and help save the Regional Seniors Travel Card, readers can sign the petition at www.savethetravelcard.com.au.

To apply for a Regional Seniors Travel Card (RSTC), follow these steps:

1. Check the eligibility requirements.

2. Read the Product Disclosure Statement and the full Terms and Conditions.

3. Click on the 'Apply online' button on the RSTC website.

4. Log in to your existing MyServiceNSW Account or create a new one.

5. Follow the prompts to complete and submit the online form.

Your details will be verified, and if your application is successful, you will receive your card and PIN within 20 business days. Please note that the card and PIN will arrive in separate envelopes.

We here at the SDC sincerely hope that this card and other similar programs remain active, as it can be such a major help to seniors in maintaining their independence and travelling within their regions.

It only takes a few minutes for those interested in lending their support and signing the petition to save the Regional Seniors Travel Card. Visit www.savethetravelcard.com.au to add your signature now!

What are your thoughts on this, members? Feel free to leave a comment below!

 

[AlanQ]

Seniors cards don’t help pay for fuel costs, most people in rural areas need a car as there is very little access to public transport. If we want to use public transport first we have to drive our car to a train station or bus stop to catch it. We live in an area where there is very limited public transport so we rely on our car to get everywhere, having these fuel cards is a big help with our fuel costs. It really is time the politicians stopped treating country folks like they aren’t important, after all we pay tax the same as the whingers who live in the cities and get most of the benefits dished out by politicians. If the fuel cards are cut then the free rego and any other toll and parking related benefits given to city whingers should also be cut.

a lot of Irony there to unravel. Whingeing city vs whingeing rural, don't know if you want to go there. Maybe do some research to see where the taxes are paid vs where the tax subsidies go.

 

[Bizzybees]

Can you apply for this card in Victoria. We have to travel from Stawell to Ballarat to see specialists, having this card would greatly help .

 

[Bikkie mum]

Many of us know how important it can be to stay independent for as long as possible. Aussies over 60 are becoming more and more independent each day, especially in regional areas.

However, the cost of living in these regions can be quite exorbitant at times, and that’s why many might need some help.

If you’re one of them, you might be interested to know that the NSW Nationals Party launched a petition to save the Regional Seniors Travel Card—an e-card designed to help reduce travel costs and allow seniors to maintain their independence.

Introduced in 2019 and available in over one million instances since 2020, the $250 prepaid Visa card can be used to cover expenses such as fuel, electric charging stations, pre-booked transport (like train and coach trips), and even taxis.

View attachment 23645

NSW Nationals MPs have started a petition to save the $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card from potential budget cuts. Credit: NSW Nationals.

In response to budget cuts threatened by the Labor Government, Nationals Party Leader Dugald Saunders called on regional residents and fellow politicians to lend their support and sign the petition to help save this vital cost-of-living tool from the chopping block.

'It would be a backward step by Labor to cut this cost-of-living measure, and I hope some of our regionally-based Labor MPs sign this petition as well,' he said.

He’s not the only one who sees the serious value in this card, Nationals’ Shadow Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Sam Farraway, has also expressed his support.

'Over 360,000 seniors travel cards were issued last year, and we are seeing that demand continue to grow as cost-of-living pressures stack up,' Farraway said.

Phil Knight from Dubbo said that since he and his wife both use their cards, it’s opened up a whole new assortment of activities and opportunities they wouldn’t have been able to do independently.

'Both of us having access to a $250 card means we certainly travel more and see family and friends, but it’s also sometimes a nice help with just getting to the doctor or picking up groceries,' he said.

The independence this card brings has been life-changing for many seniors.

In the words of Ray and Margaret Shipley from the Central Coast: 'Without the Regional Seniors Travel Card, we would have to cut back on the number of activities and appointments we go to every week. It really is a lifeline for us living on the Central Coast,' they said.

Key Takeaways

• NSW Nationals MPs have started a petition to save the $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card from potential budget cuts.
• The card, which offers value for travel-related expenses, has been issued to over one million seniors since 2020, supporting their independent travel.
• Seniors living in regional NSW vouch for the card's value, affirming it helps them in various activities, including connecting with family and friends—even essential visits like trips to the doctor.
• To support the cause and help save the Regional Seniors Travel Card, readers can sign the petition at www.savethetravelcard.com.au.

To apply for a Regional Seniors Travel Card (RSTC), follow these steps:

1. Check the eligibility requirements.

2. Read the Product Disclosure Statement and the full Terms and Conditions.

3. Click on the 'Apply online' button on the RSTC website.

4. Log in to your existing MyServiceNSW Account or create a new one.

5. Follow the prompts to complete and submit the online form.

Your details will be verified, and if your application is successful, you will receive your card and PIN within 20 business days. Please note that the card and PIN will arrive in separate envelopes.

We here at the SDC sincerely hope that this card and other similar programs remain active, as it can be such a major help to seniors in maintaining their independence and travelling within their regions.

It only takes a few minutes for those interested in lending their support and signing the petition to save the Regional Seniors Travel Card. Visit www.savethetravelcard.com.au to add your signature now!

What are your thoughts on this, members? Feel free to leave a comment below!

 

[Bikkie mum]

I have the NSW travel card ,i Ave also signed the petition to keep it is
a real help in these days of trying to keep on the level of rising costs all the time

 

[MariaG]

I don't have to worry about the travel card because I have never been able to get it.
We live in an area that they say is too close to Sydney and too far from what they call rural. So, we are neither Metro or Rural. Went into the too hard basket never to be heard of again.
So, if we can't use our Opal pensioner card, we don't go. The price of travel is becoming more and more restrictive. Why not whack it to the seniors...prime target.