Many Australian parents may be unaware that they could be eligible for a government-funded travel allowance when driving their children to and from school. Different states and territories offer various schemes designed to help families cover a portion of their school transport costs.
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These allowances don’t cover the full cost of commuting but can provide a significant financial boost. The amount you receive generally depends on the distance traveled and the specific eligibility criteria of your state or territory.
State-Specific Travel Assistance Programs
Victoria: Conveyance Allowance
Parents living in rural and regional Victoria may qualify for the Conveyance Allowance. Payments start at $470 annually for distances between 4.8 and 10 kilometers and increase up to $1,178 for those traveling more than 35 kilometers.
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New South Wales: School Drive Subsidy
Families without access to public transport in NSW can apply for the School Drive Subsidy. The current rate is $0.74 per kilometer per car for Semester 1, 2025. The total subsidy depends on the distance traveled and the number of school days attended. For instance, an 8-kilometer school trip over a 90-day semester would yield $532.80.
Queensland: School Transport Assistance Scheme
Students living more than 3.2 kilometers from their nearest state primary school or 4.8 kilometers from their nearest state secondary school may qualify. Non-state school students can also apply under certain conditions, and additional subsidies exist for bus and ferry transport.
South Australia: Travel and Boarding Allowance
Students living at least 5 kilometers from the nearest public school or bus route can apply for travel assistance. Additionally, the State Education Allowance provides financial help for geographically isolated families with secondary school students who board away from home.
Western Australia: Student Travel Subsidy Scheme
Eligible students in remote areas can receive subsidized fares for air, bus, or train travel. A road travel subsidy is also available for families who must drive over 56 kilometers to the nearest school or transport service.
Tasmania: Conveyance Allowance
If no school bus service is available nearby, parents may receive financial support for transporting their children to school or the closest bus stop. Eligibility depends on distance and enrollment status.
Northern Territory: Remote Transit Subsidy
Families in remote areas who must travel more than 5 kilometers for school transport may qualify for financial assistance. This applies to primary, middle, and senior school students, as well as those in tertiary education.
Australian Capital Territory: Conveyance Allowance
For families without access to ACTION bus services, this subsidy helps cover the cost of driving kids to school or the nearest bus stop. The payment is calculated per vehicle daily.
How to Check Your Eligibility and Claim Your Allowance
Each state has its own set of rules and application processes. Parents should visit their respective state’s transport department website to find detailed eligibility requirements and apply online.
These allowances can provide a much-needed financial boost, so if you frequently drive your child to school, it’s worth checking if you qualify for these subsidies.
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