URGENT UPDATE: A Dandenong advocacy group, FixDandyBuses, is demanding immediate action to boost funding for bus services in Victoria, which they claim are severely underfunded compared to other Australian states. This call comes after an internal transport department document revealed that Victoria spends just $112 per capita on urban bus services—far less than South Australia at $152, New South Wales at $171, Queensland at $200, and Western Australia at $263.
The recently released 2022 National Bus Investment Benchmarking discussion paper highlights that funding for Melbourne’s bus services is almost on par with smaller capitals such as Brisbane and Perth, raising alarm bells for local residents and advocates.
Peter Parker, spokesperson for FixDandyBuses, emphasized the urgent need for improvements in metropolitan bus routes with high patronage potential or significant social needs. “Investment in better bus services changes lives and saves people money,” Mr. Parker stated. He urged the Victorian government to align funding levels with those seen in other Australian capitals, stressing that “it is time the Victorian government came on board.”
Recently, the Route 800 from Dandenong to Chadstone shopping center was upgraded to seven-day service, adding 51 new Sunday services and 37 Saturday services. However, Parker insists similar upgrades are essential for other routes in Greater Dandenong, including 802, 804, 814, 844, 857, and 885. He pointed out that regions like Melton and Werribee already enjoy seven-day services across all their bus routes, highlighting a disparity that needs addressing.
A spokesperson for the Victorian Government responded, assuring the public that they are committed to enhancing public transport services statewide. “We have consistently increased the bus operating budget, investing over $892 million in new and upgraded services, resulting in nearly 23,000 additional bus services added to our network,” the spokesperson stated.
As the call for improved bus funding gains traction, the implications for residents in Dandenong and surrounding areas could be profound. Advocates argue that better bus services can elevate quality of life, providing essential access to education, employment, and healthcare for local communities.
With the debate heating up, all eyes are now on the Victorian government for their next steps in addressing these urgent funding disparities. Residents and commuters are encouraged to stay informed and voice their support for enhanced bus services in the region.
This developing story underscores the critical importance of equitable transportation funding across Australia, a matter that affects countless lives daily. Keep an eye on this situation as developments unfold.
