For the first time, Melbourne is embarking on the path to clean and sustainable public transport with the introduction of zero-emission bus franchises into the city. New contracts will replace 600 battery-electric buses for existing diesel vehicles across a third of Melbourne's bus network by 2035, in a move expected to sharply reduce carbon emissions while offering an improved commuter experience.
The Metropolitan Zero Emission Bus Franchises will cover 131 public bus routes and more than 230 school services across Melbourne. Switching to electric buses would mean quieter, smoother, cleaner journeys for passengers and also help cut emissions to help the city take action on climate change.
These new contracts, awarded to local bus operators Dysons, CDC, and Kinetic, are a major step toward a sustainable bus fleet. Currently, Kinetic operates one-third of Melbourne's metropolitan bus routes and will continue managing part of the new fleet. Dysons and CDC are also experienced operators in operating regional and town centre services.
Zero-emission buses rolled out across Victoria will be supported by more local manufacturing and jobs, with new contracts including increased local content requirements. Social procurement targets will ensure 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.
Fully deployed by 2035, 600 electric buses will travel over 35 million kilometres every year, saving 45,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually. The new franchises start when the current bus contracts expire in 2025, and all the existing routes and timetables continue unchanged.