No. 60

MAJOR FUNDING INJECTION TO BOOST ACTION NETWORK

ACTION bus services have received a significant boost in the 2007-08 Budget, with the ACT Government committing $16.445 million in capital funding and $2 million in recurrent funding to further improve ACTION bus services. 

Minister for Territory and Municipal Services, John Hargreaves, said that the improvements would increase security, the network and the quality of ACTION buses.

“$8 million in capital funding will be used over the next two years to replace 18 older, high-maintenance buses with new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) accessible buses,” he said.  “The new buses will deliver a better service, particularly for people with a disability, on a more economic and sustainable basis.  

“A further $8 million will be used to replace the current ageing ticketing system with one that will utilise technology to provide user-friendly, flexible and reliable ticketing for passengers and improved information management for the monitoring and review of services.  The ticket replacement program will be undertaken over two years.

“Security cameras have already been installed in most ACTION buses. Nearly half a million dollars in capital funds has been provided to complete the installation of cameras on the remainder of the fleet.  The cameras will deliver a safer and more secure public transport network for the people of Canberra.

“Recurrent funding of $1.25 million has been provided to increase services in 2007-08 and to strengthen security around interchanges.  The service improvements will follow a comprehensive service plan involving surveys and community consultation.  A further $750,000 has been provided to undertake major rebuilds on selected buses to extend their operating life from 12 years to 20 years.  The maintenance will keep the buses on the road longer.”

Mr Hargreaves said this significant funding boost would result in a better bus service. 

“The ACT Government is committed to improving public transport in the ACT. We have taken community feedback and improved our network to meet the community’s needs.

 “We have also increased safety and security on our buses by increasing CCTV coverage on buses and at interchanges, increasing staffing numbers at interchanges, and providing staff with further security training.

“The Stanhope Government is committed to providing the people of Canberra with a viable public transport option. This funding will ensure that the ACTION fleet and services provide the people of Canberra with a safe and reliable transport option.”