City bus network set for shake-up

BUS services across Geelong are under review, as the state government opens consultation on how the network should adapt to the region’s continued growth.

Community consultation opened this week and will run until 12 April, with residents invited to share their experiences of the existing service and identify gaps in connections between areas.

The review, funded in the 2025-26 Victorian budget, comes as growth continues across Geelong’s north and west, Armstrong Creek and surrounding growth areas.

Geelong MP Christine Couzens encouraged residents to take part, saying the feedback would strengthen her push for improvements across the region.

“I am hoping to gather as much information as possible so that I can best advocate for new and improved bus services across Geelong,” she said.

“As Geelong grows, our public transport network needs to grow with it.

“This is a real opportunity for the Greater Geelong community to shape what comes next.”

Couzens said Fyansford, which currently has no bus service, was a key focus of her advocacy, along with improved services for growing areas such as Bannockburn.

Lara MP Ella George said the review was particularly important for Geelong’s fast-growing northern suburbs.

“Lara and our surrounding communities are growing fast, and this review is a chance for locals to help shape better bus connections to Geelong, Avalon and the jobs and services our families rely on every day,” she said.

The consultation comes as a new bus service between Lara train station and Avalon Airport prepares to launch.

The service, which will begin on 15 March, is the first direct public transport link to the airport and its surrounding employment precinct.

For years, workers have faced a two-hour public transport journey from Lara to reach the airport, which is less than a 15-minute drive away, often travelling past Avalon before doubling back via Werribee.

“Avalon’s growth has been extraordinary, and this bus service makes sure local families can access the jobs and travel options being created right here in our backyard,” George said.

The new Route 18 bus service will run seven days a week. Buses will arrive at the terminal before most scheduled flight times and depart roughly 30 minutes after flight arrivals.

To have your say in the Geelong bus review, visit engage.vic.gov.au/geelong-bus