THE need for improvements to Shepparton’s public transport has been highlighted by Infrastructure Victoria, the state’s independent infrastructure advisory body, in Victoria’s draft 30-year infrastructure strategy. Recommendations include more bus and coach services in Shepparton, with additional stops, extensions of existing routes and funding for extra services all forming part of the recommendation.
The report states that services in Shepparton are “infrequent and indirect” and says that the Victorian Government “should deliver more bus services in regional cities, starting in Shepparton, Wodonga, Mildura, Wangaratta, Horsham and Bairnsdale.”
The draft recommendation highlights that new suburbs in Shepparton have no bus services at all and it reiterates the importance of an improved bus network to support regional Victorians travelling for work, education, healthcare, other essential services and social connection.
The recommendation said these regional cities are home to a high share of people with limited access to transport, low-income households, Aboriginal Victorians and older people.
The research from Infrastructure Victoria supports the advocacy of State Member for Shepparton, Kim O’Keeffe, who has repeatedly called on the State Government to commission a review of Shepparton’s bus services.
Last month O’Keeffe tabled a petition in parliament bearing more than 300 signatures from locals, urging the government to expand routes and increase bus services.
“Infrastructure Victoria’s report once again highlights the urgent need for an overhaul of bus services in our region,” Ms O’Keeffe said. “Their draft report clearly acknowledges that the government should deliver more bus services in the Shepparton region.
“The recommendation shows how Shepparton is being left behind under the current system and the drastic impact this has on our region’s liveability.”
The draft report also highlighted congestion on Shepparton and Seymour line V/Line trains. O’Keeffe said the lack of public transport options continues to be a major concern across the Shepparton region.
“This matter is continually raised by my constituents, who just want to be able to access adequate bus services so they can get to where they need to go,” she said.
“I am pleased that Infrastructure Victoria have also acknowledged our lack of services and have recommended increased bus services for the Shepparton region. The government now needs to make that happen.”
