The extension of the NSW Nationals signature election policy, the Regional Seniors Travel Card, is a big win for more than 15,000 older Clarence and Richmond Valley residents, according to Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis.

The free $250 prepaid Visa card is a Nationals in NSW Government policy available to eligible seniors in regional NSW only and can be used for fuel and taxis.

“Not only have we convinced the Government to extend the card for two more years, we will from next year increase the number of people eligible to include those entitled to the Age Pension and receiving either a Disability Support Pension or a Carer Payment from Services Australia,” Mr Gulaptis said.

“When that starts next year, it will significantly increase the number of eligible local seniors, which under the current criteria stands at about 10,700 in the Clarence Valley and 4400 in the Richmond Valley.”

Mr Gulaptis said over 8200 Clarence Valley seniors and 3400 in the Richmond Valley had already secured their card this year and he encouraged all eligible people to apply.

“This $250 is your money and should be in your pocket. It recognises the fact that you don’t have access to subsidised mass transit like your contemporaries in the cities do,” Mr Gulaptis said.

Eligible seniors have until 30 November 2021 to apply. Seniors must be an age pensioner with a valid Pensioner Concession Card or hold a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card issued by either the Department of Human Services or Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Applications for the card can be made online at www.service.nsw.gov.au, by calling 13 77 88 or by visiting a Service NSW Service Centre in Grafton, Maclean, Casino, Lismore or Ballina.