Geraldton ‘unlikely’ for cashless card trial

City of Greater Geraldton mayor Shane Van Styn says he does not believe Federal Budget announcements there will be two new trial locations for the cashless welfare card will include Geraldton.

The program, which prevents those on welfare using their benefits for alcohol or gambling, will be expanded to two new locations after trial programs in Ceduna and the East Kimberley, but the new locations have not been announced.

“If I look at the welfare card trial, I believe it identifies there would be about 8000 people on the welfare card in trial sites in Western Australia and that would, probably by default, not be Geraldton,” he said.

Federal Member for Durack Melissa Price said the next destination for a trial site in Western Australia would most likely be somewhere in the Goldfields.

The MP indicated Leonora, Laverton or Kalgoorlie-Boulder were likely locations for the program.

“There will be a decision on where the card is rolled out at a later date, after a lengthy and exhaustive consultation process,” she said.

“It is my sincere hope that those concerned residents who want the cashless welfare card in their town will speak up and contact my office.”