The Western Cape Government has rolled out Phase 2 of its Getting You to Work Jobseeker Travel Voucher Programme, removing transport costs for thousands of unemployed residents. At the launch event in Mitchells Plain Town Centre Library, more than 300 job seekers registered for Gold Cards that allow free travel on Golden Arrow Bus Services across the Cape Metro.
Since the programme’s debut in February 2024, over 3 700 unemployed residents have signed up through more than 150 partner employers. Phase 1 proved especially popular in Mitchells Plain, Khayelitsha, Delft, Gugulethu and Philippi, confirming the urgent need for affordable transport to interviews, training centres and first days at work.
Under Phase 2, job seekers anywhere in Cape Town, Gqeberha or Johannesburg can register online without going through an employer. Each Gold Card now carries six free trips, valid between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday to Friday, until 31 March 2026.
The initiative forms part of the province’s Growth for Jobs Strategy, which aims to build an inclusive and resilient economy by linking talented people to employment opportunities. Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku noted that voucher recipients are far likelier to attend interviews, secure work and pursue skills training—exactly the pathway the province wants to expand.
Employers across Cape Town are encouraged to register as programme partners and offer travel vouchers to prospective staff. The Western Cape Mobility Department and Golden Arrow Bus Services will continue collaborating to increase access to work.
How to Apply
Job seekers can complete a quick online registration on the Western Cape Government portal (Your Free Ride to Opportunity). After registering, they simply present their ID at any Golden Arrow kiosk to collect their Gold Card and begin traveling at no cost.
With transport expenses removed, Phase 2 of the Jobseeker Travel Voucher Programme gives unemployed residents a fair shot at interviews, training and sustainable employment—one free bus ride at a time.
