100 additional bus services for Hunter in major transport boost

The Hunter will get 100 more weekly bus services as part of a state government public transport boost to one of the fastest-growing regions in NSW.

Part of the government's $150 million Bus Service Uplift Program, the investment, it says, will provide frequent, reliable and accessible public transport options for thousands of Hunter residents.

These additions mean that more than 650 state bus services, across both school and regular routes, have been introduced into the Hunter since March 2023.

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said the Hunter was one of the fastest-growing places in NSW.

"We're making sure our region gets the services to match," she said.

"Strong communities are built on strong connections, and these extra services are just one part of our plan to keep workers, students, and families moving.

"This is about better connecting the people who call the Hunter home and the many more choosing to come here."

The additional services will mean more night-time and weekend travel options for communities including Cessnock, Kurri Kurri, Singleton, Maitland, North Rothbury, Huntlee, Branxton, Greta, Lochinvar and Windella.

The government said the new timetable aimed to strengthen connections with other public transport services across Greater Newcastle, making journeys smoother and reducing reliance on private vehicles.

From June 28, Route 164 between Cessnock and Maitland via Kurri Kurri, will get 32 extra services each week.

Services will run hourly, seven days a week, improving access for the booming suburbs of Gillieston Heights, Cliftleigh and Heddon Greta.

From July 19, Route 179 between North Rothbury and Green Hills Shopping Centre via Maitland, will get 70 more services a week.

Member for Cessnock Clayton Barr said the extra bus services were a big win for local residents, especially in growing communities such as Cessnock, North Rothbury and Heddon Greta.

"I know how important public transport services are for our community, and this will make it easier for people to get where they need to go," he said.

"More services, particularly in the evenings and on weekends, mean better connectivity, more convenience and stronger links to jobs, education and shopping across the region"

For the first time, the route will operate on Sundays and public holidays, offering more flexibility for residents in Huntlee and North Rothbury.

The Minister for Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison, said that the distance between where people, lived, worked and accessed services in the Hunter's regional communities could be significant.

"Rolling out over 100 new bus services for the Hunter recognises this reality, as well as the incredible growth we're seeing across the region," she said.

"These additional services will give people more options and more freedom - to get to appointments, pop down to the shops, visit family and friends, and stay connected to their community.

"Importantly, it will make everyday life that little bit easier."

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