Western Plains commuters say common sense has prevailed after the NSW Government scrapped controversial fare hikes to a travel pass relied on by many in the bush.

The NSW Government has walked back its drastic price increase to the TrainLink Discovery Pass, after months of pressure from the NSW Opposition and backlash from regional residents.

“The cost of living’s already tough enough without jacking up travel costs too,” said 24-year-old Narromine local Joanna Gainsford.

“Everything from groceries to fuel has gone up, and public transport was one of the few things we could still afford to make life a little easier.”

Ms Gainsford said the Discovery Pass is far more than just a convenience for people in the bush.

“A lot of us out here rely on it to get to uni, medical appointments, or just to visit family and friends in other towns. Without it, the cost of travelling those distances becomes impossible for some.

“It’s a huge relief that they've brought the cheaper options back. It means we can keep living our lives without having to choose between travel and other essentials.”

The pass saw its annual cost rise from $840 to $3,300 under Labor’s changes, sparking widespread anger across country NSW.

Locals say the price surge hit particularly hard in western towns where long-distance train travel is often one of the few affordable ways to access medical appointments, education and family support.

Dubbo Railway Station is the hub for many Trainlink journeys across the western plains.

NSW Nationals Leader Dugald Saunders, who represents the Dubbo electorate, said the change showed how out-of-step the city-based Government was with life in the bush.

“The Discovery Pass has been a vital lifeline for so many, but the Government decided to try and take that support away with no consultation, forcing people to fork out more when times are already so tough.”

Shadow Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Dave Layzell said the initial move to axe the more affordable options was not only a cost-of-living slap in the face, but also overlooked how vital travel flexibility is in the bush.

For many across the Western Plains, it’s a small but significant step in easing the burden of long-distance living.

With the Discovery Pass reinstated, attention is now turning to other regional support measures that have been scrapped or scaled back, like the popular Regional Seniors Travel Card.

“I don’t use the Seniors Travel Card myself, but I see how much it helps older people in towns,” Ms Gainsford said.

“Out here, losing things like that hits the whole community because it means more people struggle to stay connected and independent.”

Residents and MPs say the fight isn’t over, but for now, the return of the cheaper travel pass is a win for the bush.