The Government is working with regional bus operators to lead the transition to a cleaner bus fleet, with the launch of a series of industry roundtables.
The roundtables, initiated by the Department of Public and Active Transport, will take place in Colac, Shepparton and Morwell. They aim to explore the unique challenges and opportunities faced by regional operators in the transition to zero emissions, and ensure their perspectives are integral to the final plan.
In August, the Government released a consultation paper seeking input from bus operators and the industry on how to facilitate the transition to zero emissions. This new phase focuses on exploring local challenges in regional areas as Victoria moves towards a cleaner, greener and more sustainable bus fleet.
As part of the broader goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2045, all new public transport buses purchased from 2025 will be zero emission.
The final Transition Plan will outline Victoria's proposed approach to achieving a zero-emission fleet and detail how the Government will support bus operators to prepare for and manage this transition.
Victoria has already embarked on a $20 million Zero Emissions Bus (ZEB) trial, which is providing invaluable insight into the smooth transition of nearly 4,500 diesel buses, including 2,000 in regional Victoria, to zero emissions.
The three-year trial involves six operators introducing 52 zero-emission buses (50 electric and two hydrogen) into their fleets in Melbourne, Traralgon and Seymour.
Lessons from the ZEB trials include key information on depot recharging requirements, infrastructure and energy network needs, environmental impacts, customer expectations and commercial arrangements.
In addition, the trial is fostering key local industry partnerships and supporting local jobs with energy providers and bus manufacturers - critical elements for a successful transition.