Premier Steven Miles has unveiled a groundbreaking plan to introduce hundreds of zero-emission buses into Queensland’s public transit system through direct government procurement in a move towards sustainable urban transportation.
The initiative aims to retire ageing diesel buses currently in operation on the Translink network, heralding a shift towards greener alternatives to combat climate change and improve air quality, the government said in a media statement.
The project is poised to see over 400 buses locally manufactured, with the exact figure to be determined through a competitive procurement process, solidifying Queensland’s commitment to fostering local industries and job creation.
This commitment follows the government’s recent endorsement of the construction of 200 new buses in Queensland, all of which will be Euro 6 diesel buses, representing the cleanest diesel technology available for mass production in the state.
Under the Zero Emission Bus Program, the Queensland Government pledges that all new buses procured for Translink’s South East Queensland urban network from 2025 onwards will be zero-emission vehicles, a move projected to slash CO2 emissions by up to 80 per cent.
Translink’s ongoing trial of 75 zero-emission buses across eight depots in Queensland has provided valuable insights informing the design and implementation of the forthcoming fleet, ensuring optimal performance and environmental benefits.
To fortify local manufacturing, stringent local content requirements will be enforced, fostering job growth and opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises throughout the supply chain.
Additionally, the initiative will see the transformation of bus depots into clean energy hubs, with new zero-emission facilities slated for construction and existing depots undergoing eco-friendly upgrades.
Premier Miles emphasised his government’s unwavering dedication to bolstering Queensland’s industries and fostering job growth, alongside meeting emissions reduction targets currently under parliamentary consideration.
“With this plan, it is expected more than 400 new buses will be delivered, good jobs in local bus manufacturing will be supported and Queensland streets will be cleaner and quieter,” he noted.
The premier said he expects the project to offer optimal value for Queenslanders both presently and leading up to 2032.
Deputy Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick highlighted the Miles Labor Government’s commitment to decarbonizing Queensland’s economy.
He stated that electrifying the public transport system would yield long-term clean manufacturing jobs, attract new clean investments, and contribute to emissions reduction.
“The local construction of these buses ensures Queensland’s manufacturing industry remains at the cutting edge of clean energy manufacturing, giving workers confidence their good jobs are secure for decades to come,” Dick said.
