I have just been informed that the City of Greater Dandenong has decided to continue funding the council funded weekend bus services. The council funded services will continue through to the end of May with the goal of securing state government funding for better public transport services after this date.

The City of Greater Dandenong must be applauded for continuing this initiative and for ensuring that people within Dandenong, Springvale, Noble Park and Keysborough are actually able to participate in work and recreational opportunities on the weekends.

The City of Greater Dandenong has a higher than average level of no-car households, yet there is a lower than average level of public transport. It is clear that a vastly improved public transport network is required.

Government MPs must ensure that the improved public transport network that is required to reach the goal of 20% modal share by the 2020 is actually delivered. The PTUA stands ready and willing to assist in the City of Greater Dandenong in ensuring that better public transport becomes a reality.

I applaud the City of Greater Dandenong in standing up for Melbourne’s south-east and demanding better from the State Government.