Operators help new cohort discover public transport
- More than 90 people with disabilities have familiarised themselves with public transport at an event in Melbourne
- Try Before You Ride helps people build confidence with different transport modes in a comfortable environment
- Attendees explored the features of a new electric bus, including an Australian-first wheelchair containment system trial
A new cohort of Melburnians can feel more comfortable and confident using the city’s public transport system with bus, train and tram operators combining for the Try Before You Ride accessibility event in Melbourne.
The operator-led initiative delivered in partnership with Victoria’s Department of Transport and Planning attracted more than 90 people this week, providing a comfortable environment for attendees to practice using different modes of public transport.
Kinetic, which operates a third of the city’s bus network, showcased one of Melbourne’s newest electric buses which are modernising the travelling experience. The vehicle featured a first-of-its-kind wheelchair containment system being piloted with Federation University.
The company’s customer experience team with the support of Travellers Aid Australia helped attendees familiarise themselves with all the accessibility features and use the event to practice getting on and off the vehicle.
Kinetic Executive General Manager – VIC/NSW/TAS, Graham Smith, said the event was about helping more people discover and access public transport.
“Thanks to today’s event, a new group of Melburnians got the chance to test out public transport at their own pace—and hopefully now feel more comfortable getting on the bus, train or tram to stay connected with the community,” Mr Smith says.
“Well done to everyone involved in hosting this event and thanks to everyone who took the opportunity to come out and attend – we look forward to welcoming you back on board.”
Creating a more accessible bus network for Victorians has been a priority for Kinetic since taking over the Metropolitan Bus Franchise in 2022 and establishing an Accessibility Reference Group.
Since then Kinetic has appointed a dedicated disability awareness trainer, implemented the Sunflower Hidden Disabilities program, and launched its second Accessibility Action Plan (AAP) 2024-2026 to continue efforts.
Mr Smith said Kinetic was committed to making public transport more and more accessible.
“Initiatives like the trial we’re running in partnership with Federation University are designed to provide a safer traveling experience for wheelchair users,” he said.
“It will soon be piloted on seven buses across our fleet to inform a potential broader roll out across Victoria’s bus network.
“Our job is to ensure our services meet the needs of all passengers, from the moment they start planning their journey to when they reach their destination.”
You can learn more about Kinetic’s AAP and commitment to accessibility here.
Further enquiries
Emmanuelle Brizuela
Specialist - Communications
0460 615 604
emmanuelle.brizuela@wearekinetic.com