The Eastern Transport Coalition, as a regional body consisting of Melbourne’s seven outer eastern councils provides the opportunity to advocate for better public transport across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

Tonight’s meeting discussed the bus service review process, with the second round of workshops being announced. These workshops will provide an opportunity for the community to respond to proposals that will be considered by the State Government and the Department of Transport.

It is imperative that the this process leads to better bus services within Melbourne’s outer east and the State Government must provide funding to ensure that the recommendations are implemented.

In this regard, the Eastern Transport Coalition is calling on Members of Parliament to undertake an inquiry into public transport to ensure that it meets the needs of our community and to provide economic, social and environmental sustainability for Melbourne.

Given the regional importance of Ringwood, the redevelopment of Ringwood Station is one of the priorities for the group. Ringwood Station must become an accessible and integrated transport interchange to ensure that it is usable by all members of our community.

The Eastern Transport Coalition will be planning several events throughout this year to demonstrate the need for public transport improvements.