A nation-leading program providing vouchers to help eligible older Tasmanians to stay active, is now open.

Minister for Sports and Events, Nick Duigan, said the Ticket to Wellbeing program had received an overwhelmingly positive response since it was announced.

The Ticket to Wellbeing program, is a key part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future. It offers eligible Tasmanians two $100 vouchers each financial year to spend towards the cost of sport and active recreation membership or registration.

Minister Duigan said the vouchers were now available for Tasmanians aged 65 and over who have a valid Services Australia Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card.

“This successful voucher program is helping older people get out, socialise and stay physically active by getting involved in organised sport and active recreation activities,” Minister Duigan said.

“We know that times are tough, and for many older people – things like sporting club memberships are often the first things they have to give up. These vouchers will provide that additional cost of living support, and help Tasmanians stay active and engaged in our community.

Images courtesy of Australian Masters Games

“Helping older Tasmanians to remain active and engaged in community life is an investment in individuals, families and local communities.

“Eligible older Tasmanians will be able to use their vouchers towards a range of activities to help them get active within their local communities.

“We expect to see a wide range of activities offered under the program from golf, lawn bowls, and tennis through to pickleball and yoga.”

Participants can now easily apply for vouchers online.

“We have committed $1 million of funding over two years to trial the program, with the potential for it to be extended if successful,” Minister Duigan said.

“The Ticket to Wellbeing initiative is based on the highly successful Ticket to Play program which has been helping get kids active since 2019 and has provided more than 78,000 vouchers in that time.

“We hope Ticket to Wellbeing becomes just as popular as Ticket to Play to help make older Tasmanians some of the most active in the nation.”

Eligible applicants can apply for vouchers through www.tickettowellbeing.tas.gov.au, or ask their local club or COTA for assistance.

Read the original release here.