Public transport, taxis, and ride sharing

Access to reliable transport is important for maintaining your independence and staying connected with your community.

Here are some travel options to help you get out and about.

Public transport

Public buses and trains are available in every state and territory except the Northern Territory, where only buses are provided. Some states and territories also provide ferries and trams. 

Public transport options in regional areas are often limited. In remote areas, public transport is generally not available.  

Older people and people living with a disability pay reduced concession fares. Eligibility for concession fares varies, so it’s important to check with the relevant transport authority in your state or territory. 

• New South Wales - check website or call 131 500
• Northern Territory - check website or call 08 8924 7666 
• Queensland - check website or call 131 230 
• South Australia - check website or call 1300 311 108  
• Tasmania - check website or call 1300 135 513  
• Victoria - check website or call 1800 800 007  
• Western Australia - check website or call 13 62 13
• Australian Capital Territory - check website or call 13 17 10

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, including older people. Uber Assist drivers will help you get in and out of the vehicle and are able to handle any assistive products or mobility equipment. 

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 an aged care service that can be accessed through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme as part of a Home Care Package.

The service can include transport vouchers and subsidies, a driver service, or help with shopping, visiting health practitioners, and attending social activities.

Eligibility for Transport Assistance 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.

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