Tuesday, 3 February 2026

 Gaelle BROAD (Northern Victoria) (19:40): (2092) My question is to the Minister for Public and Active Transport regarding the need for Sunday bus services in Strathfieldsaye, near Bendigo. I first raised this issue in August 2024 after I was contacted by Emily. The population of Strathfieldsaye is growing rapidly, and the suburb has more than 7000 residents. Emily facilitated a petition on the issue, which attracted more than 3000 signatures. In September 2024 the minister advised that the department would consider the request as part of ongoing reviews. Emily was also advised that community consultation would be undertaken, but so far there is still no timeframe for this consultation. Locals are upset that bus timetables on other days have been changed to suit the Metro Tunnel while the needs of this growing regional population have been ignored. They have also been advised to explore their eligibility for subsidised taxi and rideshare services on Sundays, which are costly. I ask the minister to advise when community consultation will commence and when residents of Strathfieldsaye can expect Sunday bus services to be delivered. This is a common issue. The government continue to focus on Melbourne, and yet there is a lack of public transport options across Northern Victoria.