The Andrews Labor Government is asking the Surf Coast, Armstrong Creek and Belmont communities to help shape the local bus networks and improve accessibility and connectivity for all passengers.
Over the next month, wide-ranging community consultation will be undertaken, asking locals to provide feedback on buses throughout the Armstrong Creek, Torquay and Belmont areas.
This engagement will give a better understanding of how people currently use their bus services, but also what would encourage them to use buses more - including where, when and how they would like to travel.
The information will help inform future planning for bus reform in the South Barwon area and how to improve local services.
The Department of Transport will be hosting community pop-up stalls on the following dates:
- Tuesday, 11 October at 12.00pm to 2.00pm; 4.00pm to 6.00pm outside Coles, 41 Bristol Road, Torquay.
- Thursday, 13 October at 12.00pm to 2.00pm; 4.00pm to 6.00pm at The Village Warralily Shopping Centre, Central Boulevard, Armstrong Creek.
The consultation is all part of Victoria's Bus Plan, which is delivering important improvements to the state's bus network to better meet demand, increase accessibility and performance, and deliver value for money.
The Labor Government is investing in bus services for Torquay and Armstrong Creek, as part of the $109 million investment funded in the Victorian Budget 2022/23 to improve bus services across the state.
Surf Coast, Armstrong Creek and Belmont communities can provide feedback on the bus network through the Engage Victoria website until 23 October or by attending one of the pop-up stalls.
As stated by Minister for Public Transport Ben Carroll
"The community will play a vital role in helping to shape their future bus services in Surf Coast and Armstrong Creek by giving us a better understanding how they use the network and what we need to do to futureproof buses in the area."
As stated by Member for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman
"We want to hear how we can improve public transport connectivity and accessibility for our growing suburbs."
As stated by Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
"We know how important local bus services are to residents across Belmont and this review will give us a chance to understand how we can further improve their experience."
