Improving Efficiency: An Evaluation Of Sydney Buses

Abstract

This paper evaluates Sydney Buses route 333 “Bondi Bendy” prepay only service, launched in October 2006. This new bus service, operating between Bondi Beach and Sydney’s CBD, was introduced to provide greater capacity along one of Sydney’s busiest corridors. The first few months of operation have proved to be a success, attracting increased patronage and positive responses from customers. The performance of the service has been assessed using the triple bottom line framework: people, profit and planet. Benefits to customers include faster boarding times, travel times and savings on fares, while bus operators experience safety improvements. The service, using new articulated buses, has significantly increased patronage on the corridor, which maximises business efficiency. The impact on the environment is minimised by the increased capacity articulated buses, providing opportunities for reduced congestion and pollution. Current key challenges involve refining the stopping pattern, improving communication and increasing off peak patronage. Addressing these issues requires further analysis of the existing route and the continued implementation and revision of the communications plan. The initial success of the 333 has created opportunities for additional prepay only bus services in Sydney and encourages future innovation in the public transport industry.