Bus patronage in Ballarat is booming, with hundreds of extra passengers every day since the Andrews Labor Government delivered more frequent, reliable and direct services early this year.
New data released today shows an average of 5,768 passengers used Ballarat’s bus network every weekday in August – up 15.6 per cent from the same time last year.
Ballarat’s bigger, better bus network began in January, as part of the Labor Government’s $100 million investment in better bus services for passengers across Victoria.
Ballarat passengers now have faster and more direct services, with the simpler network of 15 routes operating more often across weekdays and weekends, giving locals better connections to trains and key destinations.
The Labor Government is also investing in better bus facilities for Ballarat, with construction of the new $5 million bus interchange at the revamped Ballarat Station Precinct to take place throughout 2018.
The new interchange will bring local buses even closer to Ballarat Station – making it easier for passengers to access the train station and Ballarat CBD.
The redevelopment of the Ballarat Station Precinct also includes upgrading the heritage listed Goods Shed, a new state of art convention and events centre, a Quest Apartment Hotel, shops, restaurants and a new public plaza.
It comes as the Labor Government in August added 18 extra train services a week on the Ballarat line, giving passengers more weekday evening and weekend services than ever before.
Ballarat passengers will also benefit from the Victorian and Commonwealth Government’s $1.6 billion Regional Rail Revival, including $518 million for the Ballarat Line Upgrade, which will deliver more frequent and reliable services for Melbourne’s growing west.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan
“These numbers show local passengers are getting on board with Ballarat’s bigger, better bus network.”
“We’re investing in the bus services and facilities Ballarat passengers need to get home safer and sooner.”
Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Sharon Knight
“These positive results show our investment in local bus services is working, and we’ll keep monitoring usage to ensure they continue to meet the needs of passengers in Ballarat.”
Quote attributable to Member for Buninyong Geoff Howard
“This increase in patronage is welcome news as more people see the bus as a great way to get around Ballarat.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020