Ex-members of Defence Force with a disability

If you are an ex-member of Defence Forces with a service-related disability, you can apply for a Transport Concession Entitlement Card.

This card entitles you to free travel on most public transport in NSW.

You can also get a free Opal card, which allows you to open gates at train stations and ferry wharves without staff assistance.

You are eligible to apply for an Ex Member of Defence Forces Transport Concession Entitlement Card if you: 

• Live permanently in NSW, and
• Are a war veteran from Australia, New Zealand or a WWII Allied Nation with reciprocal pension rights with Australia, and
• Meet the requirements under either the Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986 (Cth) or the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (Cth) as outlined below. 

Veterans’ Entitlements Act Category 

You may be eligible if (in addition to the above criteria): 

• You receive a Disability Compensation Payment under the Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986 (Cth) from the Department of Veterans' Affairs that is related to overseas warlike or non-warlike service. That is, the disability must result from overseas warlike or non-warlike service.

"Warlike" and "non-warlike" service is defined in the determinations made in accordance with paragraph 5C(1) of the Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986 (Cth). 

Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act Category 

You may be eligible if (in addition to the above criteria): 

• You receive periodic payments or have received a lump sum payment from the Department of Veterans' Affairs for permanent impairment compensation; and
• You have been rated as 10 overall impairment points or greater for injuries or diseases related to overseas warlike or non-warlike service under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (Cth). That is, the impairment must result from overseas warlike or non-warlike service. 

"Warlike" and "non-warlike" service is defined in the determinations made in accordance with paragraphs 6(1)(a) and 6(1)(b) of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (Cth).

Please note:

• Cards are issued free of charge and are valid for up to three years or until your entitlement ceases (e.g. if you move interstate). If you are still eligible, you can renew your Transport Concession Entitlement Card.

Important information:

• If you are not eligible, you will be advised when applying. You may be eligible for a Gold Opal card if you hold a DVA Gold Card.
• Blinded soldiers, World War I veterans' widows and recipients of the Victoria Cross or the George Cross receive a different pass for free travel.