The Andrews Labor Government has extended the trial of the ConnectU community transport service, which provides transport to people in Warrnambool, Koroit and Port
Fairy unable to access public transport or taxi services.
Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP, announced today that the Government has provided $25,000 from the Transport Investing in Regions program to keep the service running until June.
Using donated cars and volunteer drivers, ConnectU provides a tailored transport service for individuals unable to access public transport and who have difficulty finding a means of getting to medical appointments, shopping and community activities.
Since its inception the door-to-door service has undertaken over 7800 trips and assisted
more than 230 people in the Warrnambool region, with the majority of passengers aged over 70.
The Labor Government is considering a greater role for innovative community transport
services like ConnectU through the Regional Network Development Plan (RNDP).
As well as looking at how train and coach services can be improved, the RNDP will explore
the role community transport can play in meeting the transport needs of regional communities.
The Transport Investing in Regions initiative supports local community transport across regional Victoria. For more information, visit www.ecodev.vic.gov.au.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney
“ConnectU provides transport to people in Warrnambool, Koroit and Port Fairy who can’t catch public transport or taxis.”
“Our $25,000 investment will ensure this innovative community service continues to help locals get to the shops, appointments and see friends and family.”
“The Andrews Labor Government is looking closely at community transport options in the Regional Network Development Plan – Victoria’s first long-term strategy for better regional public transport.”
Quotes attributable to Chair of the ConnectU Board, Stephen Lucas
“ConnectU is a place-based, low cost model to provide transport to people who have limited access to traditional transport services.
“Our research has shown wide range of benefits to providing these services and assisting people who otherwise would not be able to travel. This greatly increases well-being in our community. “
“ConnectU has 237 registered clients in the Warrnambool and Moyne areas. We have provided over 7,800 trips to date, thanks to the dedication of our 24 volunteers and
support of our partner organisations.”