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Fuel crisis exposes broken bus network in Melbourne's west

Sustainable Cities - Better Buses Campaign

PM urges Australians to use public transport in the current fuel crisis, but in Melbourne’s West, the broken bus network leaves families with no choice.

 

This evening, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the nation, interrupting television and radio broadcasts to announce measures to tackle the worsening fuel crisis as a result of the war in the Middle East. In his speech, he urged Australians to reduce fuel use, stating “if you can switch to catching the train or bus or tram to work, do so.”

 

While inner-city communities have access to frequent trains, trams and buses, in the outer suburbs – especially Melbourne’s west – it’s a completely different story. A lot of buses only run every 40 minutes, many routes stop early and some don’t even run on weekends. This simply doesn't work for nurses, people who can’t drive, school students or shift workers travelling outside peak hours.

In its current form, the bus network is not a viable alternative to driving.

Fuel prices have hit $2.49 per litre, placing further strain on households already facing cost-of-living pressures. The combined impact of expensive fuel and inadequate public transport highlights deep transport inequality in Melbourne’s West.

“We have clear directions from the Prime Minister. Jacinta Allan and Victorian Labor must step in now to implement a fast, frequent and connected network of buses in Melbourne’s West.” said Better Buses spokesperson Simon Tran.

 

“If we’re serious about getting through this fuel crisis, we need a fast, frequent, and connected bus network now. Without it, families will keep struggling.” said Mr Tran.

Contact details:

Simon Tran - Better Buses spokesperson  +61 435 640 340