Ms SPENCE (Yuroke) (16:32): (1808) My constituency question is to the Minister for Public Transport. What information can the minister provide on community usage of the new route 525 bus service since its commencement late last year? The response that my office has received regarding the introduction of this new service has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly from the many residents living in the new developments in the northern part of my electorate who have access to local public bus services for the first time. Unsurprisingly, we have already received requests for increased frequency, additional stops and even express services from residents who would also like to use this service. Any information regarding the uptake of this new route would be greatly appreciated, and I look forward to hearing from the minister.

Response:

The 525 Craigieburn to Donnybrook bus service commenced on 22 December 2019.

The route gives residents in Kalkallo, Mickleham, Trillium public transport access for the first time, connecting them to Craigieburn and Donnybrook stations, health services, schools and jobs.

There are currently approximately 1000 passengers using this service each weekday.

The service is helping people to get to work and access the train, as well as getting kids to school. The busiest hours are between 7am and 8am on weekdays, with an average of 180 boardings since school resumed at the end of January.

Approximately 660 passengers are using the service each Saturday and 240 each Sunday.

Hon Melissa Horne MP
Minister for Public Transport
Minister for Ports and Freight