Wait goes on for results of bus review

Public transport users across the Geelong region are still waiting to learn how their bus services could be improved, with the state government yet to release the findings of its bus network review.

The review examined bus services across Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula, Torquay and Bannockburn, with community consultation concluding in April.

A consultation summary report was expected by mid-year, but the Department of Transport and Planning has not said when it will be released.

Funded in the 2025–26 state budget, the review sought to identify gaps and opportunities across the regional network. It considered ways to make bus routes simpler and more direct, create new links between towns and suburbs, and improve connections with other forms of transport.

A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said the feedback would help inform future improvements to the region’s bus network.

We are currently reviewing community feedback and submissions on the Geelong, Bellarine Peninsula and Bannockburn bus network review which will assist to inform local bus improvements,” the spokesperson said.

The department said any changes identified through the review would still be subject to future funding decisions.

 

 

Geelong MP Christine Couzens said she continued to advocate for improved bus services across the region, including in Bannockburn and Fyansford, as well as an upgrade to the Moorabool Street bus interchange.

One new service has already been funded, with this year’s Victorian budget providing for a bus link between Ocean Grove and Drysdale. Bellarine MP Alison Marchant said work to finalise the route was continuing.

Opposition leader Jess Wilson said the Liberals would consider the outcomes of the review and would have more to say on public transport closer to November’s election.

“We know that particularly here in Geelong but right across the regions that there’s a lack of public transport; people feel like they can’t get to and from work, to and from the shopping precinct, families can’t get around,” she said.