Region 6 Bus Franchising Factsheet

On 15 May 2017, the NSW Government announced it would invite the world’s best operators to run bus services in Region 6 in Sydney’s Inner West to provide extra and more efficient services that more people will use as the city’s population grows.

Will private operators be responsible for timetables, routes and bus stops?
No. All timetables, routes, and bus stops will continue to be regulated by the Government.

Will buses and other assets be sold off?
No. All buses and other assets such as depots will remain Government-owned.

Will private operators set fares?
No. Fares will continue to be set by the Government, just as they are today.

Can passengers still use their Opal cards?
Yes. Passengers can continue to use their Opal cards as they currently do and concessions will be protected.

What protections will there be for staff?
There will be jobs for all award staff with the new operator. Award staff will be offered the same job at the same level with the same status. An 18-month employment guarantee period will also apply, and all award staff will transfer with all their accrued entitlements such as annual leave, sick leave, long service leave, and superannuation.

How will the Government ensure the new operator will improve services for customers?
Private operators will have to compete and re-apply for contracts every five-to-10 years and will only have their contracts renewed if they meet high performance standards for safety, reliability, customer satisfaction, and cleanliness.

When will the new operator begin?
The tender process for selecting a new operator begins in July 2017 and is expected to be completed by July 2018.