An estimated 80,000 more older South Australians could gain access to discounts and concessions under a new election promise from Labor to expand the state’s Seniors Card.
The Labor Government has committed to widening eligibility for the program if it is re-elected on Saturday.
Under the proposal, all South Australians aged 60 and over would become eligible for a Seniors Card, regardless of how many hours they work. The card is currently limited to permanent residents aged 60 or older who work fewer than 20 hours per week.
The plan also includes extending eligibility to Aboriginal South Australians aged 50 and over.
Around 500,000 South Australians are aged 60 and above, with approximately 420,000 already holding a Seniors Card. Labor says the expansion would bring a further 80,000 people into the scheme.
The proposed changes are expected to cost $8 million over four years.
If implemented, eligible cardholders would be able to access free 24/7 public transport on Adelaide Metro services, alongside a range of discounts aimed at easing cost-of-living pressures.
Existing offers tied to the card include fuel discounts at participating United service stations, savings at Romeo Foodland stores, discounted tickets at Wallis Cinemas, and access to competitions and events linked to Adelaide Fringe.
Minister for Human Services Nat Cook said, “This is real cost of living relief for South Australia’s seniors, giving more people access to a range of discounts for various goods and services.”
“Ensuring older South Australians have clear, accessible information about services and concessions is one of the simplest and most effective ways to support wellbeing.”
“When older people feel connected, respected and supported, the whole community benefits.”
