While Term 1 will now begin on Monday, 7 February for most students, new and existing school services will run as planned from Monday, 24 January, to ensure students who need to attend school can safely do so.
TransLink has worked with 11 SEQ operators to deliver a number of improvements to school services, including new routes in Brisbane, Logan, Ipswich and Bribie Island.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said almost 30 million school trips were expected to be taken throughout 2022.
“The safety and comfort of all students when travelling is a priority for us, which is why planning ahead and being prepared is important,” Mr Bailey said.
“Knowing where and when they need to be to catch their school bus will help immensely.”
Mr Bailey urged students, parents and guardians to use TransLink’s School Service Finder or Journey Planner or visiting local operator websites before the start of Term 1.
“TransLink’s School Service Finder is an easy and convenient way for parents and students to find the best journey to and from South East Queensland schools,” he said.
“It’s important for students to remember to be patient for the first few weeks of the school year, as the network is monitored and changes may need to be made to services where demand requires it.
“Masks are also mandatory on all public transport and we encourage students to social distance onboard where possible.
“We also recommend students and parents read our school travel tips on the TransLink website.”
Education Minister Grace Grace said these new and improved services will ensure students can travel to and from school safely and easily.
“It’s great to have these new routes up and running for the start of the 2022 school year,” Ms Grace said.
“I also encourage parents and carers to have a conversation with their children about travelling safely, including wearing a mask and socially distancing where possible.”
Other important tips for students to ensure a smooth transition back to school include:
- buying or checking the validity of travel cards or go cards and considering auto top-up
- familiarising themselves with local public transport stops, stations and services, and
- claiming their concessions, including the School Transport Assistance Scheme (STAS)
Primary and secondary school students are eligible for concession fares at 50 per cent of an adult go card fare, while some may be entitled to additional fare assistance such as the School Transport Assistance Scheme.
Mr Bailey encouraged students in SEQ to buy a go card so they could benefit from fast, easy and convenient travel without cash or paper tickets.
“Go cards for students aged between five and 14 years and concession go cards for secondary students 15 or older are available at retailers as well as bus stops and train stations,” he said.
“If you have a go card, register it and set up auto top-up to protect the balance if it is lost or stolen. If you have a concession go card, ensure the expiry date matches the student ID.”
