Cheaper Bus Fares For Thousands Of Victorian Families

Thousands of Victorian families accessing the School Bus Program are set to save hundreds of dollars a year in student bus fares.

While on a visit to McGuire College yesterday, Minister for Education James Merlino announced that the complicated system of bus fares affecting thousands of families in Victoria will be replaced with a single fare for travel.

Currently, students not attending their closest government or non-government denominational school pay annual bus fares ranging from $480 to $1240, depending on distance travelled.

From 2016, these students will be able to travel at a reduced rate of $480 per annum.

For example 223 students using the Diamond Valley network will save between $80 and $760. While more than 150 students in Monbulk are also expected to also save between $80 and $760.

This is the result of the Andrews Labor Government listening to feedback from families and schools regarding the old complicated ticketing system.

This reduction in fares will enable greater choice in selecting schools and transport options for families and lighten the workload on school administrators.

The improvements announced today do not affect families eligible for free bus travel.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education, James Merlino

“This reduction in bus fares will mean thousands of families across Victoria won’t have to face the old complicated system and will be left with more money in their pockets.”

“Not only will it save many of them money, it will allow more kids to access the School Bus Program to get to and from school.”

“We’re investing almost $4 billion to make Victoria the Education State, so every community has access to great local schools and every child gets the chance to succeed.”