The Western Cape Government’s Getting YOU to Work programme is connecting more jobseekers to employment opportunities by removing transport costs as a barrier to interviews.
The initiative, led by the Western Cape Government, continues to grow across the metropolitan area by allowing residents to register directly for transport support through its online platform.
Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku emphasised the importance of transport access in restoring dignity to jobseekers.
“No one should be denied the opportunity to work simply because they cannot afford the transport cost to an interview. This programme is about levelling the playing field by ensuring that jobseekers can pursue employment opportunities regardless of their financial circumstances,” he said.
Since its launch in February 2024, the programme has registered more than 20,000 beneficiaries. Since 1 January 2026 alone, over 3,000 jobseekers have registered for Gold Cards. Participation is highest in Nyanga, Khayelitsha and Gugulethu, followed by Mitchells Plain and Blue Downs.
Highlighting the programme’s impact, Minister Sileku added, “When we remove transport costs as a barrier, we give people a fair chance to change their lives. The success of the Getting YOU to Work programme shows how targeted, practical support can connect residents to opportunity and strengthen our economy.”
In 2025, the programme renewed its focus on expanding access by allowing beneficiaries to register themselves directly online. Participants report meaningful outcomes. Ayanda Msizi said, “Without the voucher I would still be unemployed.” Another beneficiary, Anesipho Dumbisa, noted, “I wouldn’t have been able to travel to interviews without the voucher. The voucher helped a lot in getting me to interviews.”
The programme provides eligible jobseekers with a free Gold Card loaded with six free trips on Golden Arrow Bus Services. The trips are valid Monday to Friday during off-peak hours between 09:00 and 15:00.
By addressing transport affordability directly, the programme removes a critical barrier preventing unemployed residents from attending interviews and seeking work.
Eligible jobseekers can register online, complete the sign-up process and collect their free Gold Card from participating Golden Arrow Bus Services kiosks. Collection points are available via the Western Cape Mobility website.
The Getting YOU to Work programme forms part of the Western Cape Government’s Growth 4 Jobs Strategy, reflecting its commitment to removing systemic barriers to employment and ensuring residents have access to opportunity and the dignity that comes with work.
