Improve bus services in Greater Dandenong

Rachel asked the government to commit to funding improved bus services in Greater Dandenong, as current services are not meeting community needs.

Wednesday the 28th of May 2025,
Victorian Legislative Council

Rachel asked for a commitment to fund improved bus services in Greater Dandenong.

Rachel Payne (South-Eastern Metropolitan):

My constituency question is for the Minister for Public and Active Transport. My constituent is a resident of Dandenong and has mobility issues. She relies on public transport to get her to her retail job at Chadstone.

My constituent usually catches the 804 bus, which does not run on Sundays. Although an alternate route does exist, the stop is too far away for her to access.

Most metropolitan bus services run until 9 pm seven days a week. Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs have received significant funding in the state budget for service improvements. Despite its significant social needs, Greater Dandenong remains one of Melbourne’s most under-resourced bus networks.

So, my constituent asks: will the minister commit to funding bus service improvements in Greater Dandenong?

Response received, 23rd of July 2025:

I thank the Member for her question.

The Allan Labor Government recognises the important role buses play in meeting the travel needs of people living in Melbourne’s suburbs. Buses are a vital part of Victoria’s integrated transport system, with about 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. When reviewing existing bus routes or planning new ones, DTP considers several factors, including the number of users, suitability of the road network for bus operations, development of a direct and easily understood network, and connectivity with other public transport services.

While there are no immediate plans to modify route 804, I have asked DTP to consider your feedback as part of future network planning. I would like to note other recent service uplifts to buses in Dandenong, including bus Route 800. There are 51 Sunday services now operating, with more trips added to weekdays and Saturdays. This upgrade provides easier access to places like Chadstone Shopping Centre, Oakleigh Central, M-City Shopping Centre and Monash University.

We continue to improve Victoria’s bus network in line with Victoria’s Bus Plan to better meet demand, improve accessibility and performance, and deliver value for money. These principles guide future investment in our bus network. The Government recognises there is more work to do and is committed to ongoing investment to improve the bus network as community needs evolve.