Queensland seniors, carers and companions can now carry their government-issued concession cards digitally, with the state government adding the Seniors Card, Carer Card and Companion Card to the Service Queensland app. The move brings the app's total catalogue of digital licences and accreditations to 22, up from just three two years ago.
How the Digital Seniors Card Works
Cardholders who want to make the switch can download or update the Service Queensland app and follow the in-app prompts to add their eligible card. The digital versions provide the same access to concessions and discounts as the physical cards, which continue to remain valid for anyone who prefers to keep carrying them in their wallet.
Queensland Seniors and Disability Services Minister Amanda Stoker said the setup process, once completed, makes day-to-day access more convenient. "Once the set up process is done, it's an easier way to have access," she said. "Importantly, digital cards are optional and physical cards continue to remain valid, so Queenslanders can choose the option that works best for them."
Support is available for anyone who needs help making the transition, including in-person assistance at Service Queensland stores and Mobile Service Centres, as well as over the phone and online.
A Rapidly Growing Digital Platform
The addition of the seniors cards reflects strong growth in the Service Queensland app more broadly. The number of digital licence users has doubled over two years, now exceeding 1.5 million Queenslanders. The platform already hosts a range of credentials, including Queensland driver licences, 18+ cards, recreational marine licences, rideshare accreditations, and Queensland Building and Construction Commission licences.
Seniors cards are available to Australians from the age of 60, meaning the new digital option has the potential to reach a large portion of the population.
Addressing Digital Exclusion Among Older Australians
The rollout comes alongside growing recognition that older Australians are disproportionately affected by challenges in the digital space. The Australian Digital Inclusion Index found that rates of digital exclusion are significantly higher for people aged 75 and over, reaching approximately 66 per cent in that age group.
The Council on the Ageing (COTA) Queensland noted that among the factors driving digital exclusion, only the gap created by income is larger than the age divide. In response to the Digital Inclusion Index findings, COTA said: "While younger Australians continue to gain digital skills and confidence, many older people are struggling to keep up, not because they are unwilling, but because they face practical challenges with access, affordability, and confidence."
The government's decision to keep physical cards valid alongside the digital option directly acknowledges these barriers, ensuring no cardholder is forced to navigate technology they may not yet feel comfortable using.
What Cardholders Need to Do
- Download or update the Service Queensland app on a compatible device.
- Follow the in-app prompts to add an eligible card.
- Seek help at a Service Queensland store or Mobile Service Centre, over the phone, or online if needed.
- Keep using a physical card, which remains completely valid, if preferred.
The expansion signals continued investment in Queensland's digital services infrastructure, with the app now serving as a central hub for a wide range of government-issued credentials.
