Alternative Transport is not Just for Those without a Car

Giving up the car and using Alternative Transport is one of the most challenging things for us to face, but Alternative Transport options are not only for when you have retired from driving - consider them when or if driving your car is not the best option.

Using alternative transport can even save you money - a bus to Sydney, for example, can be as cheap as $10 each way. A rail journey can be relaxing and nostalgic. Even around town, a night out for dinner can be more enjoyable using a taxi to take the stress out of night driving.

Alternative transport can be useful for:

• Trips to the optometrist or ophthalmologist if you think you may have drops placed in your eyes.
• Trips to the dentist if you are likely to have an injection.
• Days at the club.
• Journeys during peak hours.
• Holidays and interstate travel.

Alternative transport options include:

ACTION Buses:

While not always convenient and often taking a long time to get from A to B using several buses, the ACTION network is comprehensive and economical. 

• The ACTION Information Service can be contacted by:
  • Telephone: 131710;
  • Web-site: www.action.act.gov.au.
• If you have never used a bus before, it's a good idea to phone their information line for guidance. Explain that you are a first time user and need some guidance.
• The ACTION information telephone line can help you plan a trip including which buses to catch and their numbers.
• The ACTION web-site can also help you plan a trip.

ACT Community Services

The various ACT Community Services provide transport for medical appointments and social support groups - look them up in your telephone book.

Social Clubs

Social clubs sometimes offer a free mini-bus service for patrons. Check with your particular club.

TripsACT

TripsACT 6251 2100 can provide transport for:

• Weekend and evening social activities.
• Attending cinemas/ clubs/ theatres.
• Evening or weekend educational facilities.
• Visiting family or friends in hospitals and nursing homes.

ACT Taxi Subsidy Scheme

The ACT Taxi subsidy scheme provides Taxi vouchers for those with a severe disability or for those unable to access other public transport options.

ACT Taxi Subsidy Scheme
GPO Box 158
CANBERRA ACT 2601
Phone: (02) 6207 1108.

Other options

• Friends and family are of course always a possibility, be prepared to ask - people often enjoy being able to help.
• For interstate trips and/or holidays consider buses, trains and air transport - all of which are cheaper than in the past and can often compete with driving yourself when all costs are taken into account.