Accessibility Links:

FAQFrequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What has changed about car pooling?

The new on-line matching and registration system will replace the forum that has been available on the classifieds. Employees wishing to car pool should register with the new system as it provides an automatic matching service based on shift time and location.

Visit http://worsley.sharemycar.com and follow prompts to register with a BHP Billiton email address or contact Amanda Blunt 9734 8691 (refinery) or Tristyn Treloar 9734 8212 (mine) to register a car pool without an email address. The site is user friendly however if you experience any problems a user manual is available here or email worsleycarpooling@bhpbilliton.com with your query.

2. What is classified as a Worsley car pool?

A car pool is two or more people sharing a vehicle on the journey to and from work at least three times per week or the shift equivalent.

3. What incentives are available and how do I receive them?

Current incentives available are:

  • $100 voucher upon registration
    Each car pool participant will receive a voucher two months after their car pool permit was issued. If the car pool is found to be in breach of the terms and conditions during the first two months no participant will qualify for the vouchers. Each participant is contacted with pick up location details.
  • Weekly giveaway of $200 voucher
    All registered car pools automatically enter the weekly draw for the voucher. The winning car pool is notified and provided with collection details.
  • Priority parking
    Car parks at the Worsley refinery have a limited number of reserved bays for registered car pool vehicles on a first come first served basis. Permits need to be clearly displayed on the dashboard of all vehicles using these bays. Note that if you forget your permit you are not eligible to park in these bays.

4. Do you have to car pool everyday to qualify for the incentives?

No, but you must car pool at least three times per week or the shift equivalent to receive the incentives and be registered as a car pool. Compliance checks will be ongoing.

5. Will the monetary incentives affect my fringe benefits tax?

This is dependant on how many benefits individuals receive from the workplace.

The car pool incentives offered may classify for the minor benefits exemption and not be reported on your payment summary if similar benefits received:

  • are less than $300 individually
  • are irregular and infrequent
  • have a total value that is insignificant

6. What if I don't own a car, can I still join?

Yes you can. There is an option to only receive a lift from others.

7. How much does it cost to car pool?

It is much cheaper to car pool as the costs are shared by all car pool participants. It is up to each car pool to decide how payments are made. Some options include rotating between participant's private vehicles, buying a pool vehicle and sharing costs or paying fuel/maintenance costs to the nominated driver/vehicle.

8. How does car pooling benefit me?

  • Reduce traffic and parking congestion
    Fewer vehicles on the road reduces traffic congestion on the trip to and from work making it safer and less frustrating for all. The number of vehicles competing for parking bays is also reduced and registered car pool vehicles will have access to limited priority parking bays.
  • Car pooling reduces stress and fatigue
    Driving can be a source of significant stress for many people and be dangerous when the driver is tired. It is estimated 30 per cent of rural road crashes are caused by fatigue. Many don’t realise that being awake for 17 hours and driving is equivalent to driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05, the legal driving limit.
  • Car pooling reduces travel costs
    When you share a journey the travel costs are shared. This includes fuel, maintenance, tyre and servicing costs associated with the vehicle used. Each car pool will have a different method on how these costs are divided.
     
    The estimated savings in fuel and vehicle costs associated with driving an average-sized car to the refinery from Bunbury each day (120km) is about $3,500*. The estimated savings when driving to and from Collie (34km) is $1,000*.
     
    *Savings are based on fuel and vehicle costs for an average-size car
  • Car pooling reduces pollution and congestion on our roads
    Based on a recent survey of traffic travelling to the refinery traffic congestion is worsening, particularly around peak times. By car pooling the number of vehicles on the road during peak periods will reduce, hence reducing the frustration and time it takes for all to reach their destination.
     
    The reduced number of vehicles on the road also results in a reduced carbon footprint. Experts estimate motor vehicles account for 29 per cent of annual emissions of carbon dioxide. You can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 2.2 tonnes per annum by choosing to car pool.
     
    *Amounts are approximate and based on the average vehicle carbon dioxide emissions 173g/km

9. Will car pooling affect an insurance policy?

Private car insurance policies will not be affected by car pooling provided the arrangement does not produce a profit for the vehicle owner or driver. If you are in any doubt as to whether a car pool arrangement contravenes any clause in your insurance policy, you should contact your insurance provider directly.

10. Who can I contact if I have any questions?

Any questions, comments or thoughts are welcome at worsleycarpooling@bhpbilliton.com