The Public Transport Users Association (PTUA) has welcomed public transport service upgrades in the 2026 State Budget, and said ongoing upgrades are needed to help give people more travel options.
“The current fuel price crisis is a reminder that more Victorians need viable transport options”, said PTUA spokesperson Daniel Bowen.
“Upgrades to bus and train services are good to see, and will help relieve crowding, cut waiting times and encourage more people onto public transport.
“But we do need to see continued investment to ensure that services keep up with population growth, and to provide more options, especially for families in Melbourne’s outer suburbs, regional cities and rural areas, where public transport options are sparse.”
The PTUA also welcomed investment in public transport fleets and infrastructure, with the expanded X’Trapolis 2.0 train order set to improve passenger amenity and service reliability on Melbourne’s train network.
Tram fleet modernisation is also progressing, with the first G class trams expected into service soon, but Mr Bowen noted that accessible tram stop upgrades are lagging.
“While a dozen stops are expected to be upgraded in the next 12 months, there are over a thousand more to do. The deadline of 2022 is fast becoming a distant memory.”
V/Line’s Shepparton service will see more frequent trains. V/Line has had ongoing patronage growth and crowding issues around its network since the fare cut in 2023.
“Particularly welcome is the news of funding for planning for upgrades of the Upfield and Seymour lines. Duplicating and connecting these lines will be important to meet fast growing travel demand in Melbourne’s north. Pushing ahead with Melton electrification is also vital for communities in Melbourne’s west, and the introduction of longer trains and more buses will be very welcome.
“It’s great to see the government funding more services more often. There’s a lot more to do, but it’s encouraging to see them heading in the right direction.”
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