The NSW Liberals and Nationals have announced plans to reinstate the Regional Seniors Travel Card if they are elected to government in 2027, promising renewed cost-of-living support for older Australians living in regional and rural communities.
Under the proposal, eligible regional seniors would once again receive a $250 prepaid card that can be used for fuel, taxis and pre-booked train or coach travel. Coalition leaders say the measure would help older residents manage rising transport costs and maintain access to essential services.
NSW Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane said Labor’s decision to scrap the program ignored strong community support, despite more than 22,000 people signing a petition calling for the card to be retained.
She said the card had provided valuable financial relief for thousands of seniors and argued that increasing fuel prices and everyday expenses have made transport support more important than ever for regional communities.
NSW Nationals Leader Gurmesh Singh said distance and isolation continue to present unique challenges for people living outside metropolitan areas. He said regional seniors should not be disadvantaged because of where they live.
According to Mr Singh, a future Coalition government would restore the program to ensure older residents have access to practical assistance and are not left without support during a period of rising living costs.
The Regional Seniors Travel Card was originally introduced in 2020 by the former Liberal and Nationals Government. During its operation, more than 1.3 million cards were used by eligible seniors across regional New South Wales before the program was discontinued by the Minns Labor Government.
Shadow Minister for Seniors Kevin Anderson said regional residents often have fewer transport options than those living in Sydney and major cities. He noted that many older Australians must travel long distances for medical appointments, shopping and social connections.
Shadow Regional Transport and Roads Minister Paul Toole said the initiative was designed to make daily life easier and help seniors cope with increasing household expenses. He rejected criticism of the scheme and described it as a practical measure aimed at supporting regional communities.
Community groups have also welcomed the Coalition’s announcement. Brian Hall, President of the Grafton Senior Citizens, said many pensioners and seniors living in regional areas are facing growing financial pressure as the cost of living continues to rise.
Mr Hall said older Australians outside metropolitan areas often have to travel considerable distances to access specialist healthcare, shopping and other essential services. Unlike city residents, they do not have the same level of public transport or services available close to home.
Supporters of the policy argue that restoring the Regional Seniors Travel Card would provide targeted assistance to older Australians on fixed incomes while helping them remain active and connected within their communities.
With the next NSW election still more than a year away, the future of the program will likely become part of the broader debate around cost-of-living pressures, regional development and support for seniors across the state.
