Frequently asked questions
What is carpooling?
Carpooling is when two or more people from the same area travel to uni in the same car. Sometimes there is a single driver that may pick up a number of passengers and sometimes carpoolers rotate the driver.
Why carpool?
Carpooling is a fantastic way to meet new people and helps to protect the environment and us by lowering the levels of poisonous gases in the air. It cuts down travelling time for passengers (as compared to public transport) especially if you live a long way away from the University.
Why should I get a carpool permit?
A carpool permit entitles you to priority parking in the green bays at the front of Car Parks 2, 3 and 8.
Do I still have to buy a normal parking permit?
Yes, you must display both a normal parking permit and a carpool permit. If you organise to carpool most days you could possibly share the cost of a parking permit wih someone else. Go to carpooling permits to find out how to apply for a permit and the conditions that apply.
If I join the carpool, do I have to travel with anyone?
No, If you join the carpool there is no pressure to carpool with anyone at anytime. By joining the carpool service you're simply saying that you're willing to recieve a list of names and phone numbers of people living in your area. If you wish, you can then call the people on your list and organise to travel together.
Will I find a match?
There are currently in excess of 4000 carpool members. It is almost always possible to find a match in the same suburb and often in the same street. But why not check out how many carpool members there are in your suburb? View the number of carpool members in your suburb.
I don't have a car, can I still carpool?
Yes, you can join the carpool and catch a lift to uni.
What are the costs if I don't have a car?
This aspect of carpooling is really up to whatever agreement drivers and passengers come to with each other. We have a fuel calculator, that calculates what we belive to be a good, fair amount for passengers to contribute toward petrol.
What if there are problems with the person I'm carpooling with?
As we said above - there is no pressure to carpool with anyone at anytime. You could however, try to talk to the person about any conflicts you may be having with them. If the situation is serious, give the Sustainable Transport Officer a call and they should be able to resolve any difficulties. Check out our carpool tips on the best methods for carpooling.
Is my membership carried over to the next year?
Yes - we send out emails to members around the start of February each year and ask whether they wish to remain involved in the carpool or not. Please inform us when you leave La Trobe University or wish to leave the carpool service.
Any other questions, contact us!