Safer and cooler school buses for Smart State kids

Transport and Main Roads Minister, Paul Lucas, this week announced a $6 million package for safer and cooler school buses.

“This is an important investment in our children and their future. Statistically buses are the safest way for students to get to school – we’re going to make it even safer and more comfortable than ever,” Mr Lucas said.

The Minister made the announcement as he met with the Queensland Bus Industry Council (QBIC) to discuss the record funding the Beattie Government is providing to bus operators.

Mr Lucas said the government will increase the amount spent on new buses under the School Bus Upgrade Scheme (SchoolBUS) over the next three years by $6 million to a record $24 million.

“This is a 30 per cent increase in funding for that period and will mean an additional 66 rollover compliant school buses on our roads, on top of the 200 buses the government has already committed to fund until 2009.

“And for the first time, the government will now subsidise the cost of air conditioning for any operator who wants to install it on buses purchased under SchoolBUS from 1 July 2007.

“This will not only benefit school kids, but increasingly private hirers of buses want air conditioning – so this will help school bus operators earn a few extra dollars on the side and make the industry more viable,” Mr Lucas said.

President of the Queensland Bus Industry Council, Wayne Patch, said this was welcome news for bus operators and their drivers.

“These buses will be going to some of the hottest and most humid parts of the State, where students can travel long distances to get to school,” Mr Patch said.

“Funding for the installation of air conditioning will make a big difference in rural and regional areas and give everyone a more enjoyable – and safer – ride to school.”

Mr Patch said the government and the industry had worked closely together to upgrade the school bus fleet.

“This successful partnership means we lead the country when it comes to rolling out buses that meet stringent safety standards to continue our excellent school safety record.”

Mr Lucas said that the Beattie Government’s funding for buses was unique in Australia.

“Since 2002, the Government has spent $18 million to subsidise the purchase of about 240 safer school buses across Queensland.”

“By 2009, all school buses on long steep or very steep roads will be rollover compliant and fitted with lap sash seat belts.”

“This new $6 million package is a vote of confidence in the future of the industry and an investment in our children’s future,” Mr Lucas said.

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