https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/new-bus-service-connect-eynesbury-melton-station
Last Tuesday (19/11) the Minister for Public and Active Transport, Gabrielle Williams announced that a new bus route will commence on Sunday 8th December, connecting Eynesbury and Weir Views with Melton Station.
There is no doubt that this is a much needed service for Melbourne’s fast-growing west. However, in comparison with this government’s investment in big road infrastructure projects, it feels like residents of the west are continuously being given scraps, and expected to be grateful for them.
Comparing investment between transport modes aside, this piecemeal approach to bus reform disappoints in contrast with what was set out in Victoria’s Bus Plan of 2021. The first objective of the plan is to “make the network simpler, faster and more reliable.” Furthermore, between 2023 and 2030 the key actions include implementation of “reforms that transform Victoria’s bus network and align it with growing demand"
"Adding single services here and there doesn't transform the network, it doesn't make it simpler and it's not going to get residents in Melbourne's West where they need to go”, said Sustainable Cities spokesperson, Adele Vosper.
"The Allan government needs to stand by the bus plan and announce a network reform that's bold and truly transformational. They could create a fast, connected bus service in the west with buses coming every ten minutes, just by reallocating current resources - so what's the hold up?" said Ms Vosper.
The ongoing failure of the government to undertake transformational bus network reform is even more puzzling given its recent commitment to purchasing only zero-emission buses from 1st July 2025 as part of its target to achieve net-zero emissions by 2045.
"Zero-emission buses will not create an incentive for people to leave their cars at home, and empty zero-emission buses won’t significantly lower emissions. For mode shift to occur, the bus network as a whole must deliver fast, frequent and connected services" said Ms Vosper.
BUS ADVOCATES TO RALLY FOR BUS REFORM AT PARLIAMENT THIS WEDNESDAY
Residents in the west are fed up with their broken bus system. This is clearly evidenced by the more than 3,000 signatures collected on a recent petition for bus network reform in the western suburbs. After being tabled in the Legislative Council on 15th October, the petition will be debated at 5:30pm this Wednesday 27th November by Western Metropolitan Upper House member David Ettershank MP.
Community members will gather on the steps of Parliament in support of the debate at 5pm this Wednesday 27th November. All those who support transport equity are invited to join Sustainable Cities Collective for a rally and photo action, prior to the debate.
See more about the petition-gathering process in this documentary by collective member Afia Khan
For more infomation contact
Elyse Cunningham
Sustainable Cities spokesperson
0421 559 343
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