Aboriginal communities in regional and remote NSW will soon have better access to government services and transactions, such as driver licence and vehicle registration renewals, Seniors Card applications, and driver testing, with a dedicated Service NSW Mobile Service Centre.
The “Kangaroo Bus” is expected to hit the road in mid-June 2024 and will visit more than 40 locations as part of a regular 10-week loop, visiting 10 more communities than previous Mobile Service Centre routes.
Communities that will get a vist from the Kangaroo Mobile Service Centre are typically 30 minutes or more away from the nearest Service NSW Centre, with the new Mobile Service Centre helping people save time and money.
The full suite of 1300 NSW Government transactions and services will be available on the spot, whether it is vehicle and driving transactions, applying for a Working with Children Check, or accessing support for cost-of living initiatives.
Revenue NSW Aboriginal Outreach officers and the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages community engagement team will also be available at certain locations to provide further assistance to customers.
A Business Concierge from the Service NSW Business Bureau will also be available to provide personalised guidance on how to start and grow a business, as well as navigate relevant business regulations and licence applications. Customers can also get connected with an independent Aboriginal business advisor for free one-on-one coaching and advice on topics including business planning, selling to government, marketing and cash flow.
More information on the new Mobile Service Centre route including schedule and community locations is available on the Service NSW website.
Appointments can be made for driver testing, Business Concierge and cost of living support by calling 13 77 88.
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:
“We are committed to ensuring all customers, from every corner of the State, can access the same high-quality service no matter where they live.”
“This dedicated Mobile Service Centre will make it easier for communities to access critical services, like driver licence renewals or getting a birth certificate, saving them time and money if they don’t live near a Service NSW Centre.”
“Service NSW already has Mobile Service Centres visiting rural and regional areas, and now the dedicated Kangaroo Bus makes government services and transactions even more accessible.”
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said:
“The Kangaroo Bus seeks to make government services and transactions that bit more accessible for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in remote parts of NSW, who might not live near a Service NSW Centre.”
“The Kangaroo Bus is a great initiative that will provide additional support for government transactions like licence and registration renewals, as well as guidance to access cost of living or business support.”
“This bus is helping overcome the tyranny of distance, making sure more people can be reached with important government service delivery and support.”