Elise Archer, acting Minister for Infrastructure and Transport,
Tasmanians can rest assured that contingencies are in place to allow for safe school bus travel when students start heading back to school.
Additional cleaning of all dedicated school buses will take place with a focus on high-contact areas.
Parents are reminded that it is a requirement for children aged 12 years and older (unless exempt) to wear a mask in all public indoor spaces - this includes buses, taxis and rideshare services.
While bus drivers are not responsible for 'policing' mask-wearing or for providing masks, we are sure Tasmanian students will do the right thing to keep themselves and our community safe by wearing a mask.
The Department of State Growth is working with bus operators to manage service continuity should COVID-19 impact on availability of bus drivers.
Advice on school bus cleaning has been circulated to all contracted school bus operators regarding regular cleaning of bus interiors, and students are also encouraged to get a Greencard or multi-trip tickets for cashless payment.
In addition, the Department of State Growth has planned to cater for services known to have increased demand. If capacity issues arise, the Department will work with relevant operators to monitor services and vary contracts where appropriate.
Importantly, students should not use public transport or go to school if they are unwell.
To support physical distancing, students should consider the following:
- when queuing at bus stops, maintain physical distancing from other passengers;
- always comply with requests from the driver; and
- practice good hand hygiene. If possible, use hand sanitiser before you board and after you disembark.
School is the safest place for Tasmanian students to learn, and the Government has a comprehensive plan in place to deliver a safe and supportive environment for students, teachers, support staff and parents.
