Transport Connections Evaluation Report - TDSA

ABCD
Department of Human Services
Transport Connections Program
Government
July 2006
“The benefits of the Golden Connections Community Transport service will be visible in the areas of
community connectivity, needs based service delivery and advocacy.” Golden Connections
Coordinator
The Golden Connections Community Transport initiative seeks to improve access to transport
opportunities, specifically targeting frail older people, disabled persons and their carers, and young
people living in Golden Plains Shire.
A young person from a low socio-economic background is currently involved in an investigative and
support program for early school leavers. Due to his geographical isolation, and lack of access to a
car or other transportation, he tends to miss out on many opportunities including social interaction
with peers. This young person has had limited access to both Council and community run initiatives
including the opportunity to join the local football team (due to the fact that he could not get transport
to training and games). He also has to travel an hour on his bike to reach his place of work.
As a result of the community bus, this young person is now able to participate in Shire run camps and
programs, join the local youth group and has been transported to various peer connection
opportunities which have significantly contributed to his overall well-being and social connection.
4.3.2 Improved access and utilisation of local transport options
At the time of mid term evaluation, the pilot projects had implemented 15 trial services and
refined 11 services, leading to better outcomes for individuals. During that period, adequate
time was required to ensure user behaviour changed to ensure utilisation of services. Over the
last 12 months, the pilot projects have continued to develop and implement a range of transport
options (23 service changes).
By re-visiting those initiatives that have had time to embed themselves within the community,
there are examples of improved utilisation of transport options. Of particular note are:
• Golden Connections Community Transport patronage increased from 3,205 client trips in
the year 2004/2005 (July to May) to 5,723 clients in 2005/2006 (July to May). This also
represents an increase in the average number of monthly trips from 291 in 2004/2005, to
520 in 2005–06 (see Figure 4.2). The coordinator observed that the initial growth from
aged and frail people is now being supplemented with more youth, people with disabilities
and community clients. Anecdotal feedback from clients has been positive, leading to
personal referrals and growth in client base.
Final Evaluation - Transport Connections Program 2006
31
© 2006 KPMG, an Australian partnership, is part of the KPMG International network. KPMG International
is a Swiss cooperative. All rights reserved. The KPMG logo and name are trademarks of KPMG.