Eligible community groups and organisations in the Surf Coast Shire can apply for subsidised commercial bus hire fees from 1 September 2025, thanks to Council.
From health and wellbeing outings to educational excursions, Surf Coast Shire Council will subsidise bus hire fees for eligible groups and activities.
"This new subsidy offers community groups an option to hire a bus following Council's decision to transition from its current fleet to increase safety and the variety of vehicles groups can access," Cr Tony Phelps said.
Eligible priority groups – such as older people and people with a disability – will receive a 100% subsidy for each booking, up to a maximum $1,500 each financial year.
Other community groups – including sports clubs and schools – are eligible for a subsidy of 50% towards the value of each booking, with a maximum $250 per claim and totalling a maximum $750 each financial year.
The subsidy will be in place until 30 June 2027.
The subsidy can be accessed via bookings with approved regional transport providers: Wave Rider, Coastal Chauffers, Hutchinson Buslines Birregurra, MyBus Geelong, Murrell Group and Surf Coast Transfers.
"After eligible groups and organisations have booked and paid through their chosen transport provider, the group/organisation can request a refund from Council for the amount," Cr Phelps said.
"The shire has numerous not-for-profit groups, committees and organisations which arrange much-valued outings that deliver wide-ranging benefits, including community connection. I'm pleased Council can play a role in supporting them."
To check eligibility and to apply, visit surfcoast.vic.gov.au/BusSubsidy.
