Paul HAMER (Box Hill) (19:21): (420) My adjournment matter is for the Minister for Public and Active Transport, and the action that I seek is for the minister to provide an update on how the Allan Labor government is working to ensure that residents in the Wattle Park area are serviced by accessible and well-connected public transport. Last month changes to several bus routes in the Box Hill South and Burwood areas of the Box Hill electorate took effect. These changes were the result of funding for local bus services that was announced as part of the 2022 Victorian budget. The key changes include the realignment of the smart bus 903 route along Elgar Road rather than Warrigal Road as well as the termination of route 281 at Box Hill station and the removal of route 768 to reduce duplication. I understand that these changes were made to recognise that Deakin University is a key destination for many people, including staff, students and visitors, from across the metropolitan area. As part of the changes, services will also be expanded on route 766 Box Hill to Burwood via Surrey Hills, and the route will operate across more hours on weekdays and Saturdays, with the frequency of Saturday services increased from every 40 minutes to every 30 minutes. Sunday services have also been introduced, and the existing route has been realigned to better connect with the new Union station.
I understand that the changes have been made to increase service levels across the region. For some residents, particularly those living or accessing facilities near Warrigal Road, the service changes now require a longer walk or a transfer from one service to another. I look forward to the minister’s update on the work being done to ensure that all members of our community can continue to access high-quality and frequent public transport services.