Opal card deadline for pensioners

Pensioners wishing to use public transport within, to and from the Peninsula from the beginning of August will need to use a Gold Opal Card.

Cash fares are to be phased out and, if pensioners do not wish to face fines of up to $550 for travelling without a Gold Opal Card, their only other option will be to pay the full adult fare.

July 21 was the last day that pensioners could apply and have their card in time for the August 1 deadline, according to Shadow Minister for the Central Coast Mr David Harris.

Mr Harris said it could take up to 10 days for the card to arrive.

Transport for NSW is preparing for a public relations backlash as hundreds of thousands of pensioners may still not be aware they have to apply for the Gold Opal card, Mr Harris said.

"There will be no grace period for this change so if customers are stopped Transport Officers may issue fines from August 1," Mr Harris said.

Applications can be made through the Transport for NSW Opal website, and seniors and pensioners can also apply by phoning 13 67 25.

"Maek sure you have your NSW Seniors, Pensioner Concession or NSW War Widow/er Card handy to confirm your eligibility," the website said.

Seniors coming from interstate and eligible asylum seekers cannot apply over the phone.

Media release, 21 Jul 2016

Colleen Michael, Office of David Harris