Biggest Transport Boost in Schoolies Festival™ History on the Road in 2025

School leavers across South Australia now have even more reason to celebrate with the biggest-ever upgrade to Schoolies Festival™ bus services officially launched today supported by the Government of South Australia!

For the first time, Adelaide based charity Encounter Youth is proud to introduce the brand new Schoolies Festival™ Regional Express, providing free return transport from key regional areas including the Riverland, Eyre Peninsula and the Limestone Coast. Designed to support young regional people to get to and from Victor Harbor safely and easily, this is a game-changer for school leavers looking to celebrate at the end of their schooling year.

But that’s not all.

The Schoolies Festival™ Metro Express will now offer multiple departure locations across metropolitan Adelaide, with seven different pick-up locations. With buses running direct to Victor Harbor and returning home after the weekend, the Express services are a one-stop solution for safe, easy and free travel.

School leavers can book their seat now — spots are limited and expected to fill fast.

Encounter Youth Chief Executive Officer, Nigel Knowles, said the expanded services mark a major milestone in the Festival’s history.

“This is the biggest transport announcement we’ve ever made for Schoolies Festival™ — and we’re absolutely thrilled,” Mr Knowles said.

“We know young people from both regional and metro areas want to be part of this celebration, and now we’ve made it easier, safer, and more inclusive than ever before.

These services aren’t just about convenience, they’re about safety, accessibility, and supporting families to feel confident their young people are in good hands.”

“The peace of mind this offers to parents is huge, knowing their teenager will get to Victor Harbor and back home safely on a dedicated service makes all the difference.”

“We’re incredibly grateful to the Government of South Australia for backing this critical harm prevention initiative.”

Minister for Police Stephen Mullighan encouraged South Australians to book early to secure a seat on this free bus service.

“It’s important young South Australians have an enjoyable and safe Schoolies experience which is why we are happy to partner with Encounter Youth to expand the bus services,” Minister Mullighan said.

“This free service will be incredibly popular with school leavers and their families making it more convenient and safer to get to and from the celebrations.

“For those who choose to drive, please be safe on our roads.”

With the introduction of the Schoolies Festival™ Regional Express and a broader Schoolies Festival™ Metro Express network, Encounter Youth continues to lead the way in delivering safe celebrations through smart, community-driven strategies. The new services support the broader operational safety delivered by Encounter Youth over the past 27 years.

Bookings are now live, and all seats must be secured in advance at https://www.encounteryouth.com.au/bus-information/