Melbourne Bus Services Crippled by 24-Hour Strike, Thousands of Commuters Stranded
May 27, 2025
On May 28, 2025, a 24-hour strike organized by the Transport Workers’ Union (TWU) will disrupt bus services operated by Dysons and CDC Victoria, affecting nearly a quarter of Melbourne's bus network.
Passengers are encouraged to seek alternative transport options on the day of the strike, as many routes will be affected.
Normal bus services are expected to resume on May 29, 2025, following the strike.
The strike will particularly impact bus routes in Geelong, Wyndham, Mildura, and Ballarat, leaving thousands of commuters and school children at risk of being stranded.
In response, Dysons claims to have been negotiating in good faith and accused the TWU of rejecting their proposed wages and conditions without offering a counterproposal.
TWU's Victorian/Tasmanian director, Sam Lynch, criticized the companies' current offers as inadequate, emphasizing the need for fair compensation and respect for drivers.
Dysons expressed disappointment over the strike decision, noting that they proposed a nine percent wage increase in their new Enterprise Bargaining Agreement, which was rejected by workers.
Lynch highlighted that bus drivers are struggling with wages that have not kept pace with living costs, making the strike a last resort after prolonged negotiations since January.
More than 95% of TWU members voted in favor of the strike after negotiations over pay and working conditions stalled.
Both Dysons and CDC expressed their disappointment regarding the strike action, with CDC apologizing to passengers and emphasizing their commitment to continue negotiations.
To minimize disruption, Dysons is working with the Department of Transport to run a modified timetable during the strike.
Specific school services and routes in Geelong, including those to several local colleges, will also be disrupted, further impacting the community.
Summary based on 4 sources
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Sources

The Age • May 27, 2025
School bus and commuter services to be hit by driver strike
Australasian Bus and Coach • May 26, 2025
Major Victorian bus driver strike to halt network
Geelong Independent • May 27, 2025
Bus strike to affect Geelong
Ocean Grove Voice • May 27, 2025
Bus strike to affect Geelong