Fare free week for veterans

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Veterans across Victoria will have access to free public transport during Veterans’ Health Week from October 13 to 20.

On Tuesday, Victorian Veterans Minister Natalie Suleyman announced the initiative which will apply to veterans, war widows and war widowers across the state.

Veterans’ Health Week is run each year across Australia focused on the health and wellbeing of those who have served and their families.

This year’s theme – Keep Connected – aims to promote good health and wellbeing in the everyday lives of veterans and their families and highlight the importance of social togetherness.

In keeping with this theme, veterans will be afforded free travel on bus, tram and train networks in metro Melbourne and regional Victoria.

“We owe our veterans so much appreciation and thanks – free public transport during Veterans Health Week is one way we can show our gratitude and support,” said Ms Suleyman.

“This initiative will ensure our veterans can explore everything Victoria has to offer on our extensive public transport network this Veterans’ Health Week,” added Public and Active Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams.

To take up the offer, veterans need to travel with either a Victorian Veterans Card – Victoria, an ex-service association or returned from active service badge, a Department of Veterans’ Affairs gold or white card or a Category ‘V’ Victorian public transport concession card.

Holders of Veterans Concession myki, EDA/TPI or War Veterans/War Widow Free Travel Pass can touch on and off as usual.

Myki fares won’t be charged during this period.

Veterans cards can be accessed through the Service Victoria app and website.