Improving the frequency of buses would encourage greater bus use. This is the key message from commuters who took the Eastern Transport Coalition’s Better Buses Survey last month.

Run as part of the ETC’s Better Buses campaign, we asked bus users to tell us about their commuting experience and the improvements they would like to see.

Asked what single improvement could be made, “more frequent service’’ was repeatedly mentioned by commuters.

“More direct” and “quicker buses” was also cited among improvements that users would like to see, as well as punctuality and better timetable connections between services, either other buses or trains.

ETC chairperson, Cr Peter Lockwood said buses were the most critical part of the public transport network for the majority of residents in the eastern suburbs.

“In parts of the eastern suburbs where little or no other public transport options exist, buses connect people with the places they need to go for work, school or entertainment. That’s why the ETC is campaigning for Better Buses,” Cr Lockwood said.

“There has been considerable talk about public transport in the lead up to next month’s State Election, so it is a major concern to the ETC that neither the Napthine Government or the Opposition have a plan to improve bus services.

“This state needs a significant investment in public transport infrastructure, and that includes more buses that will in turn allow more frequent timetables and give people a real, viable alternative to car travel.

“Public transport users have told us what they want, now it’s up to the government and opposition to tell voters how they will respond to the issues commuters face.”