The New South Wales Government has established a Bus Industry Taskforce to address the implications of bus privatization and improve bus services.
The Taskforce, which will play a crucial role in dealing with the consequences of bus privatisation, will be led by John Lee, former CEO of the State Transit Authority and multiple private bus companies.
The main focus areas of this initiative will include service delivery and asset management models, service planning, infrastructure, and technology that supports the efficient delivery of bus services, arrangements relating to the employment of drivers, mechanics, and other key personnel, and other steps to improve performance.
The Taskforce will undertake investigations over a period of 12 months, considering the current issues facing the bus industry regarding contracts and service delivery. It is expected to provide a series of updates and reports throughout its investigation, including initial findings on 10 July 2023, an interim report on 10 October 2023, and a final report and recommendations by 1 May 2024.