Geelong Seeks Rider Input to Strengthen Network
Geelong bus network review seeks community feedback until April 12 on service gaps
Geelong Bus Network Review Seeks Rider Input
Geelong's bus network is undergoing a comprehensive review as the state government seeks community input on how services should adapt to the region's continued growth. Community consultation opened this week and will run until 12 April, inviting residents to share their experiences and identify gaps in connections between areas. The review, funded in the 2025-26 Victorian budget, comes as growth continues across Geelong's north and west, Armstrong Creek and surrounding growth areas.
Growing Suburbs Drive Network Changes
The review addresses rapid population growth in Geelong's northern and western suburbs, where existing bus routes haven't kept pace with residential expansion. Geelong MP Christine Couzens is encouraging residents to participate, stating that feedback will strengthen her push for improvements across the region. Fyansford, which currently has no bus service, is a key focus of advocacy, along with improved services for growing areas such as Bannockburn. Transit agencies typically conduct network reviews every three to five years to realign services with changing ridership patterns and demographic shifts.
New Airport Route Launches March 15
The consultation coincides with a new bus service between Lara train station and Avalon Airport preparing to launch. The new Route 18 bus service will begin on 15 March, providing the first direct public transport link to the airport and its surrounding employment precinct. The service will run seven days a week, with buses arriving before most scheduled flight times and departing roughly 30 minutes after flight arrivals. Lara MP Ella George emphasized the review's importance for Geelong's fast-growing northern suburbs.
Consultation Runs Through April
The community consultation period extends until 12 April, giving residents several weeks to provide input on service gaps and route improvements. Officials are seeking feedback on connections between neighborhoods, service frequency, and areas currently underserved by public transit. The state government hasn't announced when findings from the review will be released or when any resulting service changes might take effect.
Riders Can Submit Feedback Online
Residents can have their say in the Geelong bus review by visiting the state government's consultation portal. The review focuses on ensuring bus services meet the needs of Geelong's expanding population, particularly in growth corridors where new housing developments have outpaced transit infrastructure. Moovit provides real-time bus tracking and trip planning for Geelong's transit network, helping riders navigate current routes while the review process unfolds.
