Queensland launches procurement for 630 new buses

The Queensland Government has launched a procurement process to acquire up to 630 new buses to replace aging vehicles and support a growing population. The initiative, known as the Better Bus Build, aims to improve accessibility and reliability while creating manufacturing and assembly opportunities within the state.

However, the decision to focus on diesel-fueled buses has drawn criticism from industry experts. Gareth Ridge, country director for Zenobe Energy, suggested that mandating diesel rather than using a technology-agnostic tender could be a costly mistake for taxpayers. He argued that a competitive market approach would likely identify solutions that are both environmentally friendly and more cost-effective.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg defended the procurement, stating that immediate upgrades are necessary because local depots are not yet equipped with the infrastructure required for electric bus charging. The first new buses are expected to enter service during the 2027–28 financial year.