Wollondilly Shire Council has established a community transport service for its growing and changing population, with an updated model that directly funds approved third-party providers to provide the service to community groups who need it.

The Community Group Transport Subsidy Program, in partnership with local transport providers, aims to provide subsidised transport hire to eligible community groups in Wollondilly. The program is designed to support local community groups by reducing financial barriers and facilitating participation in social connection opportunities.

Wollondilly based community groups can use one of three approved third-party transport services to hire either an appropriate vehicle, or a vehicle and driver, with Council providing a subsidy up to the value of $500 per trip.

Community groups will be eligible for the subsidy when using the approved transport providers, who have been carefully selected to ensure reliable, safe and accessible group transport options. The approved transport providers are South West Community Transport, Bon Voyage Shuttles and Firebird Support Services.

Mayor Matt Gould said, “I am very pleased to see Council continuing to provide a transport service for those community organisations within the Shire that need it.”

“The Transport Subsidy Program strikes a balance between the responsible use of our ratepayers’ money and providing a valuable service to help keep people connected.”

“Community groups can use this subsidy program to attend local events, community outings or other activities that promote social connectedness and health and wellbeing. I encourage community groups to apply to Council now so they can be ready to get on the road.”

To be eligible for the subsidy program, community groups must be not-for-profit organisations based in Wollondilly. It is the responsibility of each group to contact Council to apply for eligibility www.wollondilly.nsw.gov.au/events-and-community/community-group-eligibility-application/

Fleet information and contact details of the approved providers are available on Council’s website www.wollondilly.nsw.gov.au/events-and-community/community-group-transport-subsidy-program/