UN 231: After the Budget - what should be next for PT service?

Last week's 2026 Victoria State Budget had some significant investments in metropolitan train and bus service. This included 20 minute maximum waits on weekends for the Clifton Hill group, more frequent weeknight Burnley group trains and bus service uplifts on key routes across inner, middle and outer Melbourne. However it left some loose ends. For example, as mapped here, there will still be 30 minute gaps between trains in 2027, even after all currently budgeted upgrades are done. Longer gaps apply to buses with 30 to 60 minute intervals remaining common on major routes. Still, 2026's budget sets a pattern of service upgrades that if continued at the pace that it set for several years could be quite transformative, filling many gaps mapped below. Following is my pick of the most cost-effective and widely beneficial service upgrades after those in the budget are implemented. This list is especially relevant for policies parties may wish to advance in the upcoming state election…