What is the ASTP?

The Department of Education Assisted School Travel Program (ASTP) plays a significant role in meeting the needs of eligible students with disability by providing free specialised transport to and from school where parents and carers are unable to provide or arrange transport for the student either fully or in part.

The program provides around 3,000 individual transport services daily through our contracted service providers, free of charge to approximately 10,800 students across NSW.

Students with disability who are unable to travel to and from school under the Transport for NSW's School Student Transport Scheme or other services may be eligible for transport assistance under the ASTP.

Transport through the ASTP is provided as an in-kind support for NDIS participants who are eligible to receive an ASTP service.

  • Assisted Travel Support Officers (ATSOs) are department employees who provide additional supervision and support for students on transport.

    ATSOs are employed through the Department of Education on a temporary basis during the school year. An ATSO will work with the school, parents, contractors and drivers to provide a high level of supervision for students when on transport.

    For more information pplease see the below link: https://education.nsw.gov.au/schooling/parents-and-carers/going-to-school/astp/atsos