Seniors get on board with travel savings
Seniors in Western Australia are staying connected to their communities for longer, taking more than nine million free off-peak trips on Transperth services in 2015.
Speaking at Elizabeth Quay Station, Premier Colin Barnett said free travel for WA Seniors Card holders, pensioners and carers had made it easier for older West Australians to get out into the community.
"The introduction of free off-peak travel by this Government seven years ago has been an overwhelming success, with eligible travellers taking more than 53 million free trips," Mr Barnett said.
"On the Mandurah Line alone, seniors have taken more than 5.4 million trips since 2009. In addition, since the extension of free travel in July last year, uptake of free trips on the Mandurah Line have increased by 18 per cent.
"This is a fantastic response and indicative that older West Australians are more active and continuing to enjoy the freedom of their later years for longer."
Seniors and Volunteering Minister Tony Simpson said free off-peak travel was part of a range of measures introduced by the State Government to encourage active ageing.
"Every time a WA Seniors Card holder takes a free trip on a Transperth service, they save between 60 cents and $4.80," Mr Simpson said.
"Whether it's volunteering, looking after their grandchildren, supporting local businesses or making the most of Perth's growing attractions, seniors continue to shape WA in a myriad of ways.
"Free public transport is just one way we are making it easier for seniors to remain involved and to thank them for their significant contributions."
Fact File
- Seniors SmartRider holders are eligible for free travel on weekends and public holidays and on weekdays between 9am and 3.30pm and 7pm and 6am
- Since 2009, free off-peak travel has generated a total saving of more than $32 million
- Seniors can apply for a SmartRider in person at the WA Seniors Card Centre, obtain an application form from most banks or online at www.seniorscard.wa.gov.au