New Bus Network for Canberra

The proposed new public transport network has been released for your feedback. For information about the plans for the general network, school buses, and Frequently Asked Questions for Schools, please go to www.canberrabuses.com.au. To provide feedback please go to yoursay.act.gov.au .

You can provide your feedback on the changes proposed for your area and any improvements at https://www.yoursay.act.gov.au/rapid-bus-network

Safe school travel

There are a variety of transport options for children to commute to and from our school.

The Active Travel for Schools section on the Transport Canberra website highlights some of the transport options available for schools in the ACT. It includes information about the initiatives being delivered to improve safety and promote active travel and provides useful resources and tips to ensure our school environment is safe. Some of the topics covered include:

• Active travel
• Ride or Walk to School program (including maps for participating schools)
• Part way drop off locations
• Congestion
• Safety tips
• Public transport for students

The Traffic Management and Safety: A Practical Guide for Schools is also a useful guide for the school, parents and children to help manage traffic issues and road safety.

Encouraging more children to walk or ride to school will help to reduce congestion and increase safety around our school. It is also one of the most time efficient ways for children to receive the recommended 60 minutes of physical activity every day.

Canberra Light Rail

Canberra's Light Rail will change the way people can travel in the north of the city. Many children and young people will find themselves walking, cycling near the light rail line or travelling as a passenger. There are some safety aspects that we all need to be aware of as a result of the installation and movement of light rail vehicles. Children walking, cycling or travelling on the light rail will have new sights and sounds to be aware of. Parents and Carers should talk with children about taking care around the light rail tracks and vehicles.

Some of the changes include installation of light rail track along Flemington Road, Federal Highway and Northbourne Avenue. Also, the installation of the overhead electric wire that will power the Light Rail Vehicles and is currently underway.

If your children walk, cycle or travel near the light rail environment, please share with them these safety tips:

• Pedestrians and cyclists should always cross the tracks at designated intersection crossings. When crossing the tracks, it is safe to come into contact with the rail.
• Rail tracks can be a fall hazard for cyclists. Avoid getting your cycle wheels caught in the rail groove by riding directly across the tracks at a right angle. Do not cross in front of a moving LRV and avoid braking whilst on rail tracks.
• Always stay alert! LRVs are quiet and can approach unexpectedly from either direction. Distractions like texting and listening to music can put you at risk.
• The overhead wire is LIVE and carries 750 volts of power. Keep away!
• In the event of an emergency, always dial 000. Check out the Rail Ready safety video which provides tips for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers. Rail Ready safety resources.