UN 253: Top 20 links that would TRANSFORM Melbourne's buses in 2026

Earlier this week Labor announced its first substantive bus promise in its campaign to retain government in next month's state election. Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino was able to win support from her party for a new bus route between Emerald and Monbulk. The specific assurance of a new bus route is superior to the promise of a mere review (as offered for Melton). That's because reviews are vague and are easier to break promises on (as Labor did with the large north, north-east and Mildura reviews promised before the 2022 election). New or extended bus routes can be beneficial due to the new coverage and connections they can provide. However they may require new bus purchases, especially if a service that runs during peaks as well as off-peaks is desired. That requirement increases costs and affects value for money when considering whether to add bus service or not. This is very area dependent. For example if you add a bus service in an area like Tarneit, Craigieburn, Box Hill,…