The federal government is urging regional, rural and remote school bus operators to apply for the latest round of funding for Seatbelts for Kids.

They can get up to $25,000 to purchase and install the safety belts, and local communities, schools and parents are being encouraged to make them do it.

“Many regional school routes involve longer journeys at higher speeds,” the parliamentary secretary for infrastructure and transport, Catherine King, observes.

“It’s important that our kids get to school safely, and this funding assists in making that journey safer.”

In the previous round of funding, 35 buses were approved for grants bringing the total approvals under the scheme to 313 buses run by 147 operators.

“Bus operators who have an existing contract with a state or territory government to provide school bus services on a recognised rural and regional bus route can apply to fit seatbelts to new buses or retrofit existing buses,” Ms King said.

Operators have until January 30 next year to apply for the latest grants.