Young people in Broken Hill can travel around town for free, thanks to a state government initiative.
Residents (aged 14-21) can hop onboard busses at no cost until late next month to address the unique transport challenges in the area.
NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Sam Farraway, believes it will provide young people with a reliable option that aims to boost long term use.
“We want young people in Broken Hill to be able to enjoy their summer holidays and get where they want to go, whether it’s to meet friends, head to the local pool or the shops,” he said.
“We want to encourage more young people in Broken Hill to use the local bus network and this trial will help them to understand what’s on offer, building on our vision to help make public transport a first-choice option for people living in regional areas like Broken Hill.”
The NSW Government is providing $10,000 for the transport trial under the Western Region Transport Pilot Program.
Travel passes for youth are being distributed by the PCYC, YMCA and the local bus company, Broken Hill CDC.
Minister for Regional Youth, Ben Franklin, said the trial would make it easier for kids to get around and open up access to even more locations and services.
“This is more than free travel – for some, it will be the difference between being able to get easy access to sporting facilities and a whole range of service providers or not,” Mr Franklin said.
“We all know how hot Broken Hill can get and when temperatures exceed 45 degrees, being able to catch the bus instead of walking or cycling in the excessive heat should make a real difference this summer.”
For more information regarding timetables, visit cdcbrokenhill.com.au/timetables-maps/.
The trial is in operation until Tuesday, February 20.
