Regional Liberal and Nationals members of parliament have joined seniors living in regional NSW to launch a petition to save the popular $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card.
Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said he hopes the petition will save the seniors travel card from being cut in the upcoming NSW Budget.
“The Regional Seniors Travel Card has become a local lifeline for seniors in our community,” Mr Saunders said.
“Holding a $250 regional travel card allows seniors to take a trip to visit friends and family, travel for a doctor’s appointment, or visit the shops to pick up groceries.
“I hope we get as many people as possible to sign this petition to convince the Minns government to keep funding this important cost-of-living measure,” Mr Saunders said.
Dubbo resident Phil Knight said he and his wife have used their cards for the past three years, assisting them to cover fuel expenses and engage in activities they otherwise might not be able to do.
“The availability of a $250 travel card for both of us has increased our travel opportunities, and allowed us to spend more time with loved ones,” Mr Knight said.
“This in turn helps support employment at our local service stations, and service stations wherever we may travel to.”
Since 2020, more than one million cards have been issued, helping seniors maintain their independence by reducing their cost of travel.
“We all know someone in our community who benefits from the Regional Seniors Travel Card, and we all have an important reason to sign this petition,” Mr Saunders said.
“Over the coming weeks I will be asking people to share this petition far and wide to save our Regional Seniors Travel Card so seniors in our community can continue to do things they love and need to do.
“The Labor Government has prioritised Sydney projects over regional seniors, and we hope this petition will convince the Minns government to keep it in place.”
To sign the petition, go to www.savethetravelcard.com.au