UPDATE: Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershank is urgently calling on residents to report “ghost buses” that are disrupting public transport across Melbourne. This phenomenon occurs when the Public Transport Victoria (PTV) app inaccurately shows cancelled buses as still in service, leaving passengers stranded.
Residents are encouraged to participate in this initiative as Ettershank aims to quantify the impact of these vanishing buses. He is collecting data to present in parliament to advocate for an upgrade to the PTV app. “Constituents tell me that ghost buses are haunting Melbourne – people trying to get to work, medical appointments, and social engagements are left waiting at bus stops,” Ettershank stated.
The MP has already gathered feedback from 240 residents, with many expressing frustration over unreliable bus services, particularly in areas such as Melton, Altona Meadows, Footscray, Seddon, and Yarraville. “The majority of respondents were struggling to get a bus,” he added, highlighting the widespread nature of the issue.
Ettershank is demanding that the state government invest in more buses for outer suburbs and implement real-time tracking that can be accessed through the PTV app. “The state government has buried its money in the Suburban Rail Loop, but it should also invest in better buses,” he emphasized. “Buses don’t require new infrastructure like train tracks—it’s an easy fix for Melbourne’s West.”
With Halloween approaching, he described the current bus system as “cursed,” inviting the community to share their public transport horror stories. This urgent plea comes as frustration mounts among commuters who depend on reliable public transport to navigate their daily lives.
A spokesperson from the Department of Transport and Planning urged anyone witnessing bus drivers skipping stops to report the incidents to Transport Victoria. Residents can provide their feedback directly through Ettershank’s website or by scanning a QR code on his bus stickers, which leads to a reporting form.
As the situation escalates, it’s crucial for residents to engage in this campaign to ensure their voices are heard. Stay tuned for further updates as David Ettershank pushes for immediate action to resolve the ghost bus crisis and improve public transport reliability in Melbourne.
