Kingston Council have conducted a community survey around local bus services, identifying several routes in need of upgrade in the South-East. Rachel asked if the government would respond to this community need.
Wednesday the 13th of August 2025
Victorian Legislative Council
Rachel Payne (South-Eastern Metropolitan):
My constituency question is for the Minister for Public and Active Transport. My constituent is a resident of Chelsea and leads the Fix Dandy Buses community campaign. He recently welcomed advocacy from Kingston council to improve bus services in the south-east. Kingston is advocating for upgrades to routes 828 and 708, which only run once an hour on weekends. The frequency of the popular 903 route will also increase to reduce crowding. This campaign aims to address a longstanding issue for commuters across the south-east. With no funding allocation in this year’s budget, suburbs in my electorate remain underserviced.
My constituent asks: will the minister address community concerns and respond to Kingston council’s Better Buses campaign?
Written response received 29th of October 2025,
I thank the Member for their question.
The Allan Labor Government recognises the important role buses play in meeting the travel needs of people living in Melbourne’s growing suburbs. Buses are a vital part of Victoria’s integrated transport system, with around 400 regular bus routes servicing metropolitan Melbourne, and local bus networks operating in regional towns and cities.
The Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) regularly reviews the bus network to identify where improvements can be made. Feedback from councils and community groups helps to inform this planning.
I am aware officers of the DTP were briefed by Kingston City Council on 22 August 2025 on the themes arising from the local campaign and have been shared the final campaign report. I have asked DTP to consider this report as part of future network planning.
When reviewing existing bus routes or planning new ones, DTP considers a range of factors. These include the likely number of users, the suitability of the road network for bus operations, the need for a direct and easily understood network, and connectivity with other public transport services. While this process can take time, DTP continues to monitor bus service performance, travel patterns, and community feedback across the state to help guide future planning.
Gabrielle Williams MP
Minister for Public and Active Transport
Related:
> Fair, frequent and free bus services – Rachel Payne
> Improve bus services in Greater Dandenong – Rachel Payne
> Connecting Communities – Fair, Frequent & Free Buses – Rachel Payne
> Free and frequent buses will convince the South-East to garage their cars: Legalise Cannabis Victoria – Rachel Payne
External:
> https://www.yourkingstonyoursay.com.au/better-buses-for-kingston
