UKRANIANS seeking refuge in NSW after fleeing their war-torn homeland will be offered free Opal cards with credit by the NSW Government to help them rebuild their lives.
Minister for Transport and Veterans David Elliott said the NSW Government initiative would provide 250 Opal cards, worth more than $50,000, to families as a sign of the solidarity that the people of this State have with the people of Ukraine.
“Australia stands with Ukraine in its fight for its territorial sovereignty, and its right to peace and democracy. This State has a proud history of supporting our new migrants and refugees from around the world, and we have welcomed more than 2,500 Ukrainians seeking refuge with open arms.”
“To leave a life behind to seek safety and shelter in a new country can be very difficult, and providing these Opal cards is a small gesture to help them travel to important meetings and appointments such as medicals, community support groups, and religious services,” Mr Elliott said.
Minister for Multiculturalism Mark Coure said this is another way the NSW Government is alleviating the stress, uncertainty, and anxiety Ukrainians may be feeling as they escape the abhorrent violence occurring in their country.
The President of the Ukrainian Council of NSW, Mr Dan Wolody thanked the Government for its support and said that this initiative gave refugees an important kick start when trying to establish a new life in a new country.
“Having mobility and being able to afford to travel while integrating into your new surroundings is vitally important when seeking employment and further education opportunities,” Mr Wolody said.
The 250 Opal cards, include 136 for adults and 114 for children, each with a $200 credit. The Ukrainian Council of NSW will coordinate the distribution of the cards to the appropriate members of the Ukrainian community.
