Kinetic expands Melbourne’s bus network with acquisition of MorelandBus routes

Credit: Kinetic

Kinetic has announced a significant development in its efforts to enhance Melbourne’s bus network, as it enters into an agreement to acquire two Metropolitan Bus Contract Services from MorelandBus, a family-owned business operating in the city’s northern suburbs.

As the custodian of the Metropolitan Bus Franchise, responsible for a substantial portion of Melbourne’s bus network, Kinetic’s acquisition will see it adding two government-contracted routes to its portfolio. This strategic move aligns with the company’s commitment to providing efficient and seamless public transportation services to the residents of Melbourne.

This acquisition involves the transfer of 10 buses and the continuation of employment for 15 MorelandBus drivers based at the North Fitzroy depot. The transition aims to ensure a smooth transfer of services and maintain a high level of service quality for passengers. Notably, the sale does not include any depots.

Furthermore, Kinetic has also invested in electrification, with plans to introduce 36 battery electric buses within the first three years of its operation. This aligns with its commitment to sustainability and reducing emissions.

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In addition, Kinetic‘s focus on diversity and gender equality is reflected in its Women Up Front programme. This programme aims to attract individuals from diverse backgrounds, including women, into the bus industry, promoting inclusivity and empowering individuals to pursue careers in this field.

“We are excited to welcome the MorelandBus drivers to the team and continue to deliver these great services with the additional support of the broader Kinetic family,” said Graham Smith, Kinetic’s Regional General Manager. “With the addition of these services and the new faces in our team we’re excited to expand our partnership with the Victorian government to continue building a safe, clean and sustainable bus network that Victorians can be proud of.” 

As part of its commitment to delivering a modern and sustainable bus network, Kinetic has also overseen an $8.7 million investment in depot improvements and delivered 29 new hybrid buses for Victorians in its first 18 months of operation.    

While MorelandBus will continue to deliver bus services on behalf of the State, the transfer of the two routes to Kinetic is expected to complete soon and remains subject to relevant regulatory approval.