Regional transport coordinators

Transport for NSW commenced a Transport Coordination Program covering Regional areas to address the needs of people facing transport disadvantage. This followed recommendations made by the Ministerial reports into Sustainable Public Transport and the Bus Industry.

Transport disadvantage is defined as a circumstance or set of circumstances that leaves those that are affected by it in a situation where they have limited or no access to private transport and they have difficulty in gaining access to conventional transport systems

In NSW, there are 11 Transport Coordinators - in rural and regional areas. They aim to reduce the negative effects of transport disadvantage through improved coordination with community stakeholders, transport operators and other agencies. Positive benefits from the program include:

• Developing partnerships
• More integrated transport
• Less duplication of services
• Improved utilisation of resources
• Increased transport options
• Improved access to community activities
• Flexible services to meet needs
• Environmental benefits

An Aboriginal Project and Liaison Officer identifies issues and provides advice and assistance to improve transport outcomes for Aboriginal people. As the position is a state wide position, building relationships within communities is important and requires ongoing consultation and liaison with a wide range of organisations and agencies including local, state and federal government departments, transport providers, community transport groups and community based organisations as well as with the Aboriginal communities.

The officer works closely with all the Transport Coordinators to assist in identifying shortfalls and inconsistencies in transport related issues that predominately affect Aboriginal people.

Aboriginal funeral transport

The Department of Transport, through its Local and Community Transport branch, is trialling a new project to help Aboriginal people in NSW attend funerals of family or community members if they are unable to get there through other means.

This state-wide initiative, formerly known as the Events of Cultural Significance (EOCS), has now been, extended to include public transport options. The renaming reflects the primary purpose of the project.

Transport will usually be for groups of eight or more travelling in the same vehicle to a funeral which is being held at least 25 kms away. Assistance may also be provided for people travelling by public transport.

Organisations applying for funding must have an ABN (e.g. Aboriginal lands councils, Aboriginal medical services and non-government organisations).

For further information contact your Regional Transport Coordinator to discuss your transport needs and the possibility of funding under this project.

Related Links

• Map of Local and Community Transport Country Transport Regions (pdf 838KB)
• Funding Guidelines
• Projects