Author’s Note: The deferral of Victorian bus orders is a significant moment for public transport, and while it’s a complex issue with many stakeholders, this piece aims to explore its broader implications and opportunities rather than assigning blame. Industry discussions are ongoing, and we welcome diverse viewpoints and engagement as we navigate this transition together.
Change is always tricky, and when it comes to public transport, those changes can ripple through the entire industry. The Victorian government’s decision to delay replacing diesel buses for up to five years has raised a lot of questions. For some, it’s a necessary adjustment to balance infrastructure and funding. For others, it’s a setback to transitioning toward Zero Emission Buses (ZEBs). Either way, it’s a moment that forces us to think about the next steps.
Public transport is a lifeline for many, connecting people to jobs, education, and services and social lives. It also plays a huge role in reducing emissions and moving toward a more sustainable future. The delay in replacing older diesel buses brings up some key considerations—how do we keep things running smoothly, support industry stability, and stay on course for a cleaner transport future? There’s no easy answer, but there are definitely ways we can turn this challenge into an opportunity.
What’s Happening with the Deferral?
Instead of replacing diesel buses on schedule, the Victorian government is extending their service life by up to five years. That means some buses due for renewal in 2025–26 won’t be swapped out until 2030.
On one hand, this buys time to get charging infrastructure in place and iron out transition plans. On the other, it keeps older diesel buses on the road longer, delaying the shift to lower-emission fleets. Operators now have to figure out how to maintain ageing fleets while still preparing for an electric future.
From a broader perspective, this highlights just how complex fleet transitions can be. There are infrastructure gaps, financial pressures, and real operational challenges that need to be tackled. That’s why the conversation now isn’t about whether this was the right call—it’s about what comes next.
The Key Challenges
Switching to ZEBs isn’t as simple as buying new buses—it means setting up charging stations, maintenance facilities, and training programs to support them. The extended use of diesel buses might give us time to get this right, but it also slows down the benefits that come with fleet electrification.
At VDI, we’ve been working on making this transition smoother, ensuring operators have the right tools and knowledge to integrate ZEBs effectively.
Keeping Local Jobs and Businesses Secure
The Australian bus manufacturing sector relies on a steady flow of fleet replacements to keep factories running and people employed. Delays like this can create uncertainty, especially for suppliers and businesses that depend on those orders.
As Dean Moule, National Technical Manager at the Bus Industry Confederation, noted (Bus News):
“This is a sheer slap in the face for the Victorian supplier industry; deferring supply is NOT a phased approach, as the Victorian government stated today. It’s turning the tap off.”
There’s no doubt that planning a fleet transition is a massive task. Operators are weighing their options and figuring out the best way forward. Conversations we’ve had suggest that many are looking for practical, phased approaches rather than sudden, sweeping changes. The shift to zero emissions is happening, and the industry is adapting in real time to find the best path forward.
Keeping Buses Safe and Reliable
Extending the service life of diesel buses raises a big question—how do we (you) keep them running safely and efficiently? Many of these vehicles are already well into their operational life, and keeping them roadworthy for another five years will take investment in servicing and upgrades.
For operators, this means striking a balance between keeping existing fleets reliable and preparing for the switch to electric. It’s not an easy juggling act, but with proper planning, it’s possible to manage both.
Where Do We Go From Here?
This delay might feel frustrating, but it’s also an opportunity—a chance to rethink how we modernise fleets and prepare for what’s next. Instead of seeing it as a roadblock, we can use this time to plan smarter, strengthen collaboration, and take meaningful steps toward a zero-emission future.
While this deferral brings short-term challenges, it also opens the door for stronger industry coordination to ensure the transition is structured and well-executed when the time comes.
From Talk to Action: Building Infrastructure That’s Ready
We’ve spent years discussing the importance of being transition-ready. This moment makes one thing clear—it’s time to move from planning to execution. That means accelerating the rollout of charging stations and upgrading depots so that when the shift to ZEBs happens, operators aren’t left scrambling.
The good news? It’s already happening even in rural and regional locations. Early adopters have proven that zero-emission transport is viable, and we’re seeing the industry move past the tipping point. What once seemed like a leap is now becoming the norm, with momentum growing across the sector.
At VDI, we’re working closely with industry partners to ensure operators have the infrastructure and support they need to make the transition as seamless as possible. The groundwork has been laid—now we need to ensure the entire industry is ready to move forward together.
Stability, Safety, and Long-Term Success
- Keeping jobs and suppliers secure: A well-thought-out, phased approach will help stabilise the local manufacturing sector and protect jobs, rather than creating uncertainty with abrupt changes.
- Ensuring fleet safety and reliability: Extending the service life of older buses means increased maintenance and potential upgrades. Proper planning now will prevent safety and reliability issues down the road.
- Long-term planning for lasting success: The transition to ZEBs in 2030 isn’t just about hitting a deadline—it’s about making sure the shift is sustainable for years to come.
At VDI, we remain committed to working with operators, manufacturers, and policymakers to navigate this transition together. The road ahead is clearer than ever—it’s time to take the next step and ensure the future of zero-emission transport is built on solid ground.
Learn more about how we’re shaping the transition to sustainable transport solutions.
