Full steam ahead for seniors discount train holidays

The Australian Government has teamed up with transcontinental train operators Great Southern Rail to offer cheaper rail fares to all Seniors Card holders.

Great Southern Rail's concession fares were previously only offered to state or territory Seniors Card holders who were eligible to receive a pension or Commonwealth Seniors Health Card entitlements.

Under the new agreement funded by the government, an additional 800,000 seniors will be eligible for the cheaper rail fares. Seniors Card holders who access these concessions will be able to save up to 25 per cent on the full fare price for all ticket classes (except Platinum class on the Ghan).

Seniors Card holders can now save up to $490 per trip on the Indian Pacific, $481 on the Ghan and $31 on the Overland with
the new ticket concessions. This means a gold class ticket between Sydney and Perth on the Indian Pacific will now cost $1,518 for Seniors Card holders, rather than the full fare price of $2,008.

Seniors Cards are issued by state and territory governments to people who are over the age of 60 and meet specific eligibility tests. To apply, pick up an application form at any Australia Post office or visit www.seniorscard.com.au.

The new concession arrangements with Great Southern Rail require Seniors Card holders to pre-register for a unique Great Southern Rail Seniors Concession Travel Card. Eligible Seniors Card holders can register at: www.gsr.com.au/gsrseniorscard.