Following a rigorous review, Council has announced that Coast and Country Community Services will take over the delivery of community transport services for people living in the Wollongong and Shellharbour LGAs.
The transition follows the Federal Government introduction of the new Aged Care Act and subsequent changes to the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) regulations and standards.
"For decades, Wollongong City Council has been auspiced to deliver subsidised community transport with funding from the Commonwealth and NSW Governments," Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown said.
"Over the last ten years this expanded to include the Shellharbour LGA. During this time, the aged care sector has evolved significantly, with specialist providers now offering tailored services for older people and other community members experiencing transport disadvantage.
"With the support of our Federal and State partners, we're delighted to be able to transition these services to Coast and Country Community Services, who have a track record of operating high quality and reliable community transport services in areas including the Shoalhaven, Bega Valley and Kiama."
Community transport recipients were first advised of the upcoming service transition in early May, with every effort made to ensure minimal service disruption to clients.
Coast and Country Community Services has set up a new office based in Oak Flats, with several existing staff and volunteers taking up roles with the new provider. Vehicles will continue to be garaged at Albion Park.
"Community Transport is the backbone of our organisation," Coast and Country Chief Executive Officer James Gould said.
"We don't just move people from place to place – we connect them to vital services, social opportunities, and their broader communities. As the needs of our communities have changed and evolved, our services have grown to include NDIS supports and a wide range of social programs.
"These initiatives aim to improve quality of life, promote independence, and ensure that everyone has access to the support they need, when they need it. We look forward to welcoming clients living in Wollongong and Shellharbour to our service and helping them stay engaged, independent and connected in their communities."
