Latest numbers show bus patronage has fallen in parts of Canberra

The latest public transport patronage data obtained by the Greens from Questions on Notice shows that bus use is falling in Woden, Belconnen and Tuggeranong.

ACT Greens Transport spokesperson Caroline Le Couteur says new Transport Canberra patronage data confirms that while Network 19 has seen many commuters enjoy improved services, there are parts of Canberra that are worse off.

From the data:

• Overall public transport patronage is up by 6% from the September quarter 2018 to the September quarter 2019.
• Patronage from some parts of Canberra, including Weston Creek and Gungahlin, is much higher. However, patronage from the Woden Valley, Belconnen and Tuggeranong has fallen.
• Most fare types are seeing more patronage, including full fare, school students and concessions.  However tertiary student patronage is down

“After 6 months of seeing how Network 19 works for passengers, the Government needs to fix the identified problems while keeping the gains,” Ms Le Couteur said.

“Scrapping Network 19 is not the answer because areas like Weston Creek have really benefitted.  Instead, it is time to make changes that improve services for people in the Woden Valley, Belconnen and Tuggeranong.”

During the recent sitting week, Ms Le Couteur successfully moved a Motion Amendment to force the Government to report more detailed data on patronage in Woden Valley, Belconnen and Tuggeranong and improve patronage from these areas.

“I believe that the Government needs to look more closely at why patronage from Woden Valley, Belconnen and Tuggeranong is lower and take steps to fix the problems.” Ms Le Couteur said.

Patronage Data:

Statement ends