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Real-time bus tracking to be rolled out across 1,000 buses in regional NSW

Posted: 30 July 2020 |

The technology will be installed onto buses as part of phase two of the NSW Government’s Transport Connected Bus programme.

bus station in NSW

Customers in 17 centres across regional New South Wales, Australia will soon be able to track the arrival of their bus and get an indication of available seating in real time, Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW) has announced. 

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Paul Toole, said the real-time tracking technology will be installed in around 1,000 buses across the State, commencing from late August.

“The technology has already been rolled out in Dubbo, Coffs Harbour and Bega with great results and we are excited to be expanding this program to another 14 regional centres including Wagga Wagga,” Toole said. “It will allow customers to track the location of the bus, its estimated arrival time at a stop, and how full the bus is.” 

Member of the Legislative Council, Wes Fang, said it was great news for visitors and residents with real-time tracking allowing customers to see exactly when their bus will arrive and its capacity. “This will mean less time waiting at the bus stop and more time at your destination,” Fang said.    

Shaun Williams, Depot Manager at Busabout Wagga Wagga, said local operators would also benefit from the roll-out with access to more accurate data and tools to improve services and keep buses running on time.  

“This technology will capture information about the number of customers getting on or off at a particular stop. This will give us a more accurate picture of how and when customers are travelling, which will make it easier for us to understand where service improvements need to be delivered,” Williams noted.