Nationals WA vow to increase value of pensioner fuel card

Moore MP, Shane Love MLA says the Country Age Pension Fuel Card will be boosted if The Nationals WA form government next year.
Mr Love said card values would be lifted from $575 to $600 from next July and then re-linked to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) each year thereafter.
“There are nearly 4,000 cardholders in Moore who will benefit from this overdue lift in card values,” he said.
“With extra value the cardholders can get out with more confidence – and considering the months of COVID-19 restrictions it is important our pensioners re-engage with their communities.
“The Country Age Pension Fuel Card is a flagship Nationals WA policy introduced in 2009 that has provided great support for regional pensioners to be more active and connected with friends, loved ones and their community.
“It also goes some way to acknowledge that regional pensioners do not have access to free or heavily subsidised public transport as those living in the metropolitan area do.”
Recent analysis of fuel prices carried out by The Nationals WA showed motorists in regional areas continue to pay more on average at the bowser than those in Perth and many have limited or no access to public transport.
Speaking also as The Nationals WA Deputy Leader and community services spokesperson Mr Love said $20 million of Royalties for Regions funding would be used to boost the Country Age Pension Fuel Card.
“Our commitment recognises that regional pensioners continue to go without access to subsidised or free public transport enjoyed in metropolitan areas and brings card values up to a contemporary level,” he added.
“We will also replace the issue of annual cards with a permanent card, saving an estimated $2.3 million in production and distribution costs, as well as allowing for the immediate recharge of card values each new financial year.
“Our policy will help more than 55,000 card holders get out and about in their communities more – which after months of COVID-19 restrictions is more important than ever.”