Queensland’s ageing bus fleet is set for a major overhaul under a new procurement for up to 630 buses, with the State Government launching the program at Transdev’s Capalaba depot today.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg and Manufacturing Minister Dale Last announced the Better Bus Build at the Smith Street depot, saying the statewide program would replace older vehicles, improve reliability and lift accessibility across the network.
The first buses are expected to enter service in the 2027-28 financial year.
The Government said manufacturers, assemblers and suppliers would be invited to demonstrate how the procurement could support Queensland jobs, skills and industrial capability, while delivering value for taxpayers.
While the announcement does not specify how many of the new vehicles will be allocated to Redlands services, Member for Redlands Rebecca Young said the program would support improved connectivity as the region continued to grow.
“As the Redlands grows, transport connectivity is more important than ever,” Ms Young said.
“These new buses will support these enhanced connections, and the more modern fleet will deliver a better experience for people getting around the Redlands or heading into Brisbane.”
Member for Capalaba Russell Field said the local depot made the suburb an important part of the Redlands bus network.
“Capalaba is home to much of the Redlands’ bus fleet with our local depot and these new buses will support jobs locally and across the State and help strengthen the capability of our transport network,” he said.
Mr Mickelberg said the procurement was intended to maintain services while preparing the public transport network for Queensland’s growing population.
“Queensland is growing and we’re working to deliver the road and transport upgrades to get Queenslanders home sooner and safer,” he said.
He said the fleet investment would sit alongside the Government’s permanent 50-cent public transport fares.
Manufacturing Minister Dale Last said Queensland industry should be well placed to benefit from the work pipeline created by the program.
“This is about backing local industry while building the infrastructure that will keep Queensland moving for decades to come,” Mr Last said.
