Excursions

Transport

The transportation of groups to and from activity locations must be carefully considered and planned, taking into account the following:

• If using public transport, transport authorities should be consulted on appropriate travel times, fares and at least a fortnight’s notice of travel provided to the relevant transport authority. Contact Public Transport Victoria (PTV) for further information.
• Groups of 12 or more can get a concession discount for travel on public transport with a Group Travel Authority, while Victorian preschool, kindergarten or primary school excursion groups of 12 to 35 people can travel for free during the school day and on weekends. For details refer to PTV group travel.
• Excursions that run late, failing to meet times agreed to with private bus operators, are likely to incur significant costs.
• Vehicles used to transport students must comply with VicRoads registration requirements.
• Drivers must comply with all licensing requirements.
• Occupational Health and Safety laws require employers and employees to take all reasonably practicable steps to manage driver fatigue.
• Equipment carried inside vehicles must be securely stowed and not create a risk of injury or damage. Equipment and luggage should be carried and secured as appropriate in trailers, roof racks or behind luggage barriers. VicRoads offers advice on load restraint at Securing your load.

In circumstances where a teacher or staff member is to drive a vehicle transporting students, particular care should be taken to ensure that they have adequate rest prior to driving. This is particularly important when the activity includes an overnight component.

For information on transporting students in private cars refer to: Private Vehicle Use.

For information on school owned buses and hired vehicles, refer to: Buses – Owned, Hired or Chartered by a School.