Richmond and Clarence Valley seniors concerned about the cost of living have been asked by Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson for their support in his local campaign against planned cuts by the Sydney Labor Party razor gang to the popular $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card.
Mr Williamson officially launched a local Petition this week in Grafton and Casino calling on the Minns Labor Government to continue with the signature NSW Nationals initiative following the four-year trial period which will close to new applications prematurely on July 7.
“The $250-a-year card for regional seniors reflects the reality that Sydneysiders enjoy massively subsidised public transport that just isn’t available in the Richmond and Clarence Valleys,” Mr Williamson said.
“We all understand that Labor’s priority is its metro electoral heartland, but I encourage them to govern fairly for all NSW citizens, not just those from Newcastle, Sydney and Wollongong.
“Since its inception, more than 12,000 Richmond and Clarence valley seniors have claimed the direct debit card showing just how popular it is.
“It not only adds to the social welfare of older locals but injects millions of dollars into the local economy.
“It’s not too late for seniors to apply for the card this year but they will need to be quick as the NSW Labor Government is suspending new applications from July 7.
“It’s important to stress that this will not affect seniors who already hold a card as active cards can continue to be used until the expiry date printed on the front of the card.”
Mr Williamson said his electorate wide newsletter that has recently hit the letterboxes includes a survey asking locals which former NSW Nationals in Government initiatives they most want to keep.
“The response to my survey has been overwhelming and has highlighted just how important the Regional Seniors Travel Card and other cost of living measures like the $250 Regional Apprentice and University Travel Card and Active and Creative Kids vouchers are to people living in the regions,” Mr Williamson said.
“All of these cost-of-living measures introduced by the former NSW Nationals in Government are under risk by the NSW Labor Government, so it’s important locals speak up about how important they are to them.”
Mr Williamson said additional copies of the survey are available by contacting his office on 66431244 or email clarence@parliament.gov.au.
The local Petition launches took place on Monday July 3 in Market Square, Grafton and on Tuesday July 4 at the Platypus RSL Day Club, Casino
For those who did not attend the launch in person, a hard copy of the Petition to save the Regional Seniors Travel Card is available from Mr Williamson’s office and can also be signed online at www.savethetravelcard.com.au.