A major shift towards cleaner, more sustainable public transport is underway in Melbourne with the introduction of the city's first zero-emission bus franchises. The new contracts will see 600 battery-electric buses replace existing diesel vehicles across a third of Melbourne's bus network by 2035, significantly reducing carbon emissions and improving the commuter experience.
The Metropolitan Zero Emission Bus Franchises will cover 131 public bus routes and more than 230 school services throughout Melbourne. The transition to electric buses will provide passengers with quieter, smoother, and cleaner rides, while also contributing to the city's efforts to cut emissions and combat climate change.
These new contracts, awarded to local bus operators Dysons, CDC, and Kinetic, are a significant step toward a sustainable bus fleet. Kinetic, which currently operates one-third of Melbourne’s metropolitan bus routes, will continue to manage part of the new fleet, while Dysons and CDC are also experienced in operating regional and town centre services.
The rollout of zero-emission buses is set to boost local manufacturing and create jobs in Victoria, with the new contracts including increased local content requirements. Additionally, social procurement targets will ensure that the investment supports Indigenous businesses, priority job seekers, and encourages greater workforce diversity, with a focus on increasing the number of women in the sector.
Once fully operational by 2035, the 600 electric buses will travel over 35 million kilometres each year, helping to prevent 45,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually. The new franchises will take over when current bus contracts expire in 2025, with all existing routes and timetables remaining unchanged.