Empowering older Tasmanians to be active

Sports and activity providers are being urged to register their interest for a groundbreaking Tasmanian Government initiative designed to empower older Tasmanians to be active.

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

Minister for Sport and Events, Nic Street, said guidelines for the program were released today.

“Ticket to Wellbeing vouchers will be available for Tasmanians aged 65 and over who have a valid Services Australia Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card,” Minister Street said.

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

“Through this support we are helping older people, especially those on tight or fixed incomes, stay mentally and physically active by getting involved in organised recreational activities.

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

“Importantly, we’ve now opened the registration-of-interest process for activity providers to get involved or expand their current offerings.

“By registering their interest to become a provider under the program, participants will be able to simply and easily view activities for their vouchers from a list without any fuss once applications open.

“The program builds on the success of our Ticket to Play voucher program, which continues to grow year on year, and is making sport and active recreation more accessible to young people.”

Minister for Community Services, Roger Jaensch, said the Ticket to Wellbeing initiative was about helping older Tasmanians to be active and stay connected to their community.

“More than 20 per cent of Tasmanians are aged 65 or older,” Minister Jaensch said.

“This initiative for older Tasmanians is the first of its kind in Australia and the investment will improve the opportunity for social connection, which reduces social isolation.

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

The Ticket to Wellbeing program guidelines and activity provider registration are available at www.tickettowellbeing.tas.gov.au