Funding to 'fuel up' passenger car network
Published 17th November 2017
| 17 November 2017 |
Wakefield Regional Council is celebrating a “win” for the local community, with the announcement of the extension of funding to 2020 for a valued local transport service.
Minister for Communities and Social Inclusion Zoe Bettison has confirmed funding for the Community Passenger Networks (CPNs) will be provided for another three years.
Mayor Rodney Reid welcomed the decision to support the Mid North Community Passenger Network, which connects elderly and disabled residents with services, shopping precincts and public transport.
“The continuation of funding is a win for Council and for anybody who relies on the Mid North Community Passenger Network. It is such a great program and I am so happy its future is definite,” Mayor Reid said.
Ms Bettison’s confirmation comes after concerns changes to aged care policies and the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) would lead to a possible cost shift to Local Government for the service to continue.
The Mid North Community Passenger Network is part of a state-wide, not-for-profit Network and is jointly funded by:
• Clare & Gilbert Valleys Council
• The Regional Council of Goyder
• Wakefield Regional Council
• Adelaide Plains Council
• The Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP)
• The Department for Communities and Social Inclusion (DCSI)
• The Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure services
Mayor Reid said about 317 people used the service last year and 223 people so far this year.
The service has been running for 15 years and is supported by a dedicated and long-serving team of almost 50 volunteers.
All volunteer drivers use one of eight disability access vehicles to transport passengers not only within the Mid North region but also to and from Adelaide CBD.
For Mid North Community Passenger Network bookings and enquiries call 88 421 677 or email cpn@cgvc.sa.gov.au.