A new trial across regional New South Wales will test expanded eligibility for community transport services, aimed at helping more people access education, training and employment opportunities.
The initiative will see Transport for NSW fund 16 community transport providers to support people who have limited or no access to private or public transport.
Under the trial, eligible participants will be able to use community transport services to attend face-to-face study at TAFE NSW or a Registered Training Organisation, as well as travel to apprenticeships and traineeships.
Community transport services are currently available to transport disadvantaged residents, including eligible seniors, pensioners, people with accessibility needs and those with limited access to public transport.
Head of Regional Integration at Transport for NSW, Anthony Hayes, said reliable and affordable transport remained a major challenge for many regional communities.
“This trial is a valuable opportunity to better understand how community transport can connect more people to education and employment, while continuing to support those who already rely on these services,” Hayes said.
“By extending community transport to support access to training, apprenticeships and further education, the trial could help create new opportunities for people to build skills and secure long-term employment.”
The program will be tailored to local community needs and delivered through existing regional transport providers.
Transport for NSW said the trial would be monitored closely, with feedback from both customers and operators helping shape future transport options for regional communities.
The trial will run until 30 June 2027, with start dates varying across participating regions.
For more information and a list of the providers taking part in the trial, please visit transportnsw.info
