The Andrews Labor Government will buy 100 new buses to support Melbourne’s public transport network, giving passengers across the city better buses to get wherever they need to go.
Minister for Public Transport Melissa Horne today announced the Labor Government will invest $16 million over the next two years to replace and modernise the ageing state-owned bus fleet used on routes operated by Transdev Melbourne.
The new bus order will improve reliability and comfort for passengers, with Transdev exploring passenger-focused improvements including onboard Wi-Fi, mobile phone charging and improved passenger displays.
Many of the buses operated by Transdev are older than the industry average and are susceptible to reliability issues, particularly during hot weather.
The new buses will be built in line with the Government’s Local Jobs First policy, meaning they will be made with 60 per cent local content and create more than 20 new jobs for locals in Dandenong, Truganina and other potential locations.
In addition to the new buses, the Government has agreed to a six-month extension to Transdev Melbourne’s contract through to January 2021.
Transdev Melbourne has operated the Melbourne Metropolitan Bus Services Franchise since August 2013 which covers 47 routes, or 30 per cent of the metropolitan bus network.
The contract extension will allow a full procurement process for the franchise to be undertaken, giving the Government the opportunity to achieve the best deal for passengers.
Earlier this year the Government overhauled the contracts to run the remaining 70 per cent of Melbourne’s bus network, with the emphasis on giving Victorians a more passenger focussed and reliable service.
The $16 million order is in addition to the Government’s record investment in rolling stock, including the $2.3 billion order of the High Capacity Metro Trains, $848.5 million for new regional trains and 90 bigger, modern and accessible E-Class trams.
Most of the new buses will enter service in 2019.
As stated by Minister for Public Transport Melissa Horne
“These new buses will give local passengers a more comfortable and reliable journey – now and well into the future.”
“We’re delivering the biggest order of new trains, trams and buses this state has ever seen and ensuring they are built right here in Victoria.”
“We’re modernising, expanding and upgrading Melbourne’s bus network, so it delivers better outcomes for the thousands of passengers who rely on it every day.”
