Hunter Veterans Benefit Under Travel Card Expansion

More seniors are set to benefit from the NSW Government’s $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card, with thousands more veterans now eligible to apply for the card.

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Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said applications were now open for more veterans receiving a pension from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs to benefit from the card.

“More than 270,000 seniors have already signed up for this card which is easing the burden of travel costs for eligible seniors living in the bush and injecting millions of dollars into regional economies,” Mr Toole said.

“While we’re urging seniors to stay home as much as possible and encouraging everyone to cancel any non-essential travel during the COVID-19 situation, it is vital that eligible seniors with no other means of transport can still access important medical appointments or get to the shops for supplies.

“This card puts $250 in the pocket of regional seniors to spend on fuel, taxis, pre-booked NSW TrainLink Regional train and coach services, helping them to access essential services now and over the next 12 months.”

Eligibility criteria for the card has been widened to include seniors who have reached the Age Pension age and are receiving one of the following pensions from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs:

• Service Pension

• Disability Pension under the Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986

• War Widow(er)’s Pension.

These new recipients join people receiving the Age Pension and Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders in being eligible for the card. Applicants must also live in regional NSW outside of Sydney, and the Newcastle and Wollongong City LGAs.

Eligible seniors have until 30 November to apply for a card in 2020, and 12 months to use their card from activation. With the latest health advice and risks associated with COVID-19, seniors are encouraged to apply online at www.service.nsw.gov.au or call 13 77 88 rather than visiting a Service NSW Service Centre.

To activate your card, call card services any time on 1800 569 070 or enrol on the card services website.