Queensland Translink bus. Source : Wikimedia Commons (Via SGBuses. Used under Creative Commons)
The Palaszczuk Government has committed to making Queensland buses a state-run venture, with busses to be made within the state.
The boost to the local manufacturing industry will see buses used in QLD be made in state-run manufacturing facilities, which will ultimately boost QLD jobs.
Acting Premier Steven Miles said the boost is much needed and will help bring manufacturing back to the state.
“There’s no reason we can’t build more buses right here in Queensland, for Queenslanders, by Queenslanders.” Mr Miles said.
“That’s why the Government will be working with the manufacturing industry to create a pipeline of Queensland jobs in the bus manufacturing sector.
“It was a Labor Government that brought rail manufacturing back to Maryborough, and it’s a Labor Government that will support bus manufacturing job right here in the Sunshine State.
“Because buses are better when they’re built in Queensland.” He said.
To ensure the state can handle the addition, the QLD Government will conduct market sounding assessments.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the boost will make significant steps in delivering zero emissions bus targets.
“We have committed to seeing every new Translink bus be zero emission in South East Queensland from 2025, and in the regions between 2025 and 2030.” Mr Bailey said.
“The South East Queensland diesel bus fleet emits over 12,000 tonnes of CO2 a month and the staged implementation of this program will see a 50 per cent reduction by 2030 and an 80 per cent reduction by 2035.
“By making these new, electric buses here in Queensland, we can ensure we meet these targets, while supporting good jobs for Queenslanders.” He said.
Even though market assessments have yet to be conducted, Manufacturing Minister Glenn Butcher is confident that the industry can handle the opportunity.
“We know our Queensland manufacturers are the best in the world and with the help of the Advanced Manufacturing Roadmap, they’re only getting better.” Mr Butcher said.
“We’re arming businesses with the skills and knowledge to spearhead the leading-edge design, innovation, technologies, and processes to make buses in Queensland.
“Next stop: Made in Queensland!” He said.
The transition to zero emissions busses requires a different model of bus.
The current bus fleet is a diesel-run model.
