The last review was conducted 15 years ago, and Ms O’Keeffe has urged Victorian Public and Active Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams to conduct an in-depth review to meet the current demand.
“The Shepparton district has experienced significant growth, and it is clear that our bus services are inadequate,” the Nationals MP said.
“It is essential that the minister address this issue promptly to ensure our community has access to reliable and efficient public transport.”
The Dyson Group is expanding, with a new state-of-the-art bus depot set to be completed by October.
This facility will serve as a hub for the maintenance and repair of over 300 regional buses, eliminating the need to take damaged buses to Melbourne.
Despite this investment, there has been no progress on reviewing and expanding the region’s bus services.
Shepparton has been growing over the past few years, with new housing estates in Kialla, Congupna and Shepparton East still lacking bus route connections.
Public consultation began in February for the Shepparton South East Precinct Structure Plan, which will add up to 2500 homes and accommodate over 6000 people, further highlighting the need for improved bus services.
“The community needs accessible public transport, and it is so important that public transport options are viable and meet the needs of our growing population,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
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