A Nationals Government will deliver at least 45 new or expanded bus services across Victoria, capped at a $2 daily fare under the Nationals commitment to cutting public transport costs.
As part of the Nationals Long-Term Economic Plan, the $160 million package will expand and improve the bus network in regional Victoria, helping to better integrate services between schools, workplaces, shopping centres, and important local services.
Further changes to be delivered include increasing bus frequencies to match rail schedules to reduce commuter frustrations, and deliver faster, cheaper, and more efficient public transport.
Speaking on the announcement, Nationals Member for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, said that he was thrilled regional Victoria will get a fair go under a Nationals Government.
“Commitments like this one are designed to benefit regional Victorians, because for far too long we have been neglected.
“We are overdue on receiving our fair share and need to invest in our public transport network. We deserve one just as good as the commuters in metropolitan areas get.
“More commuters on public transport means less congestion and pollution in our towns, and less pressure on our roads.”
The cost-of-living pressures were not lost on Mr McCurdy, who said that families can save up to $3500 a year using public transport under a Nationals Government.
“With our $2 daily fare cap, and slashing V/Line prices to half, Ovens Valley residents can save thousands of dollars on fuel and maintenance by using a properly funded and affordable network of buses and trains.
“Only a Nationals Government can deliver a better deal for the Ovens Valley.”