Victoria’s first zero emission bus contracts have been awarded.
Accounting for a third of Melbourne’s bus network, the new metropolitan zero emission bus franchises are designed to replace existing diesel buses with 600 zero emission battery electric buses by 2035.
The new bus contracts, covering 131 public routes and more than 230 school services across Melbourne, have been awarded to Victorian-based bus operators Dysons, CDC and Kinetic following a competitive tender process.
Public and Active Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams said commuters riding electric buses would notice the difference.
“We’re introducing more zero emission buses across the state which will deliver smoother and quieter journeys for passengers and locals,” Ms Williams said.
Climate Action Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said the environment would also benefit.
“These new metropolitan bus contracts will significantly lower emissions across Victoria’s bus industry which is critical to Victoria meeting our commitment of net zero emissions by 2045.”
The new franchises also feature increased local content and social procurement requirements which the state government argues will support Victorian manufacturing, Indigenous businesses, priority job seekers and boost the number of women across the workforce.
The zero emission bus franchises will commence operation once the current contracts expire on June 30, 2025, with all existing routes and timetables being maintained.
