Public transport, taxis, and ride sharing

Public transport apps

Mobile apps (including Google Maps) can help you plan your journey. You can download public transport apps onto a smartphone via the Google Play store or Apple Store.

Each state or territory transport authority has its own app:

• New South Wales – Opal Travel  
• Northern Territory – NT Bus Tracker
• Queensland – Translink App 
• South Australia – Moovit, NextThree, or Transit
• Tasmania – Metro Tas
• Victoria – Mobile myki
• Western Australia – Transperth App
• Australian Capital Territory - Transit, or Next Bus

Taxis

Taxis can be booked online, via phone, by mobile app, or in some areas by flagging them down on the street.

Not many taxi companies operate nationwide, so use the Yellow Pages to locate a taxi company in your area if you are unsure. You can also specify if you need a wheelchair accessible vehicle when you book. 

Taxi subsidy schemes

Each state or territory provides reduced-cost taxi travel to eligible residents living with severe or permanent disability. Eligibility for this scheme varies.

Check your state or territory government website below for more information. 

• Taxi Subsidy Scheme NSW
• Taxi Subsidy Scheme NT
• Taxi Subsidy Scheme QLD
• Taxi Subsidy Scheme SA
• Taxi Subsidy Scheme TAS
• Taxi Subsidy Scheme ACT
• Multi Purpose Taxi Program VIC
• Taxi Users’ Subsidy Scheme WA

Ride sharing

Ride sharing is a new type of taxi service where the driver uses their own private vehicle. Uber, DiDi, and Ola are well known ride sharing companies that operate in Australia. 

Each ride sharing service has its own mobile app where you can book a trip. These apps can be downloaded from the Google Play store or Apple Store if you have a smartphone. 

There are other ride sharing options available depending on where you live or your specific needs:

Shebah

Shebah is a female-only ride share service. This service is only available to women and children.

GoCatch

Only registered taxi drivers are able to register as drivers with GoCatch.

Uber Assist

Uber Assist is a service offered by Uber for people with accessibility needs. This includes older people. Uber Assist drivers will help you get in and out of the vehicle. They are able to handle any assistive products or mobility equipment. 

You can request an Uber Assist in the Uber app with the following steps:

1. Enter your pickup and destination location
2. Slide left through the vehicle options until you reach the 'More' section
3. Select 'Assist'
4. Request

The Victorian Government currently provides subsidies on Uber transport for people eligible under the Multi Purpose Taxi Program (MPTP). 

My Aged Care support

My Aged Care is your starting point for accessing Australian Government-funded aged care services.

Transport assistance is available through in‑home aged care services. This may include:

• Transport vouchers and subsidies
• A driver service
• Help with shopping, visiting health practitioners, and attending social activities

Eligibility is determined by an assessor who will arrange to meet you in person. Visit My Aged Care or call 1800 200 422 for more information. 

Get in touch with LiveUp

If you need more information, get in touch with one of our helpful team on 1800 951 971.

You can also learn more about some helpful apps for older people here.

References

My Aged Care. (n.d.). Transport. https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/aged-care-services/transport

How to use this information

LiveUp provides free information to help you make informed decisions about your health. This information is for general and educational purposes only, is not intended to provide a comprehensive guide, and does not replace medical advice. Everyone is different, so some of these tips may work better for you than others. You should use your own judgment and seek medical advice when applying this information to yourself, to determine if it is suitable in your circumstances. Your use of, or reliance on, this information is solely at your own risk. Independent Living Assessment Incorporated is not responsible or liable for any injury, loss, or damage caused as a result of your use of, or reliance on, this information.