Businesses can now reach the fastest growing consumer segment in Australia by marketing their goods or services via the NSW Seniors Card 2006 Discount Directory.

The NSW Government introduced the Seniors Card scheme to encourage older people to enjoy an active and healthy retirement. It is a free, discount card providing members with access to NSW Government concessions and business discounts.

The directory reaches nearly a million seniors throughout NSW. Businesses are able to advertise regionally or statewide through five regional guides posted directly to each Seniors Card member household in November.

Ian Henderson, NSW Seniors Card Manager said, "Over 85 per cent of eligible NSW seniors already hold a Seniors Card, but interest in the NSW Government program is at an all time high, with the program experiencing growth of around 4,000 new members a month.

"Seniors Card members use the guide year round for discounts and good value on entertainment, travel and accommodation, automotive repairs, insurance, health and legal services, shopping, household needs and more," Mr Henderson said.

A quarter-page advertisement in the Seniors Card Sydney & Surrounds Discount Directory costs only $795 and reaches nearly 500,000 Sydney Seniors Card members. Display advertisements in other regional guides are priced from as little as $610. Advertising bookings close on 29 July 2005.

Building on the success and popularity of this year's directory, the 2006 guide will be in an A5 format and will include a free listing for all Seniors Card Business Partners in NSW.

Registering as a business partner is free and can be done by visiting www.seniorscard.net.au . Businesses can benefit through free website listings, promotions, point of sale material, and the exclusive opportunity to advertise in the annual Seniors Card Discount Directory.

For more information on becoming a Business Partner or advertising in the Discount Directory phone 1300 364 758, email business@seniorscard.nsw.gov.au or apply online.

Contact: Lucy Limbers, DADHC Media Officer 0411 239 499

Background on NSW Seniors Card

The Seniors Card scheme is free to join. It is not assets-tested and does not require seniors to disclose their income. To qualify, seniors must be a NSW permanent resident, aged 60 or over and work no more than 20 hours a week in paid employment.

Seniors Card currently has 890,000 members and thousands of business partners who offer discounts to members. Business owners interested in reaching the 890,000 NSW Seniors Card members are encouraged to become Business Partners. There is no cost involved - contact NSW Seniors Card for details.

The scheme is administered and funded by the NSW Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care. All other Australian states and territory governments operate Seniors Card programs that are similar to the NSW program. Applicants need to be 60 years and over in all the programs but benefits and eligibility criteria differ.