2 April 2026
Regional commuters pushed to the brink as free public transport fails country Victorians
Regional Victorians are being left stranded, squeezed out, and shut down by an overstretched public transport system that simply cannot cope with increased demand following the Government’s decision to make services free.
Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland MP said what should have been a cost-of-living relief measure had instead become a daily nightmare for those who rely on public transport most.
“Regional services like the Albury Line were already under pressure, with gaps in timetabling and limited services making it difficult for people to plan their lives,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Now, with increased demand and no ability to book a seat, the system has been pushed beyond capacity.”
Passengers travelling on the Albury Line are now forced into a “turn up and go” system, removing any certainty for commuters, many of whom travel long distances for work, education, and critical appointments.
“People are turning up to stations only to find services full, or worse, replaced by buses that don’t have enough capacity to take everyone,” Ms Cleeland said.
“I’ve heard from constituents who have been left stranded on platforms with no clear way to continue their journey.”
The situation is particularly concerning for vulnerable residents, including those needing to travel for medical care.
“These are not discretionary trips, these are people trying to get to essential medical appointments, and they are missing out because they physically cannot get a seat,” she said.
“It is unacceptable that the very people who depend on public transport the most are now being crowded out.”
Ms Cleeland is calling on the Government to urgently address capacity issues on regional lines, reinstate booking certainty, and ensure adequate replacement services are available when disruptions occur.
“You cannot just increase demand without increasing supply. Regional communities deserve a public transport system that is reliable, accessible, and fit for purpose,” she said.
“This Government needs to stop treating regional Victorians as an afterthought and start delivering the services they were promised.”