The New South Wales government has announced a substantial investment of $452 million in the 2025 budget to enhance public transport across Sydney and regional areas.

Investments will also enhance regional bus services, improving access to health facilities and introducing new weekend services, while facilitating cross-border connectivity with Queensland and Victoria.

A significant portion of this budget, amounting to $56 million, will be allocated for the procurement of 50 new articulated or 'bendy' buses to alleviate overcrowding on busy routes.

These bendy buses, which can carry over 100 passengers—about 25% more than standard buses—are crucial for addressing capacity shortages.

The state government criticized the previous Coalition administration for failing to purchase any bendy buses during its 12 years in office, highlighting the need for improved services in areas like Ryde, Epping, and the Northern Beaches.

Transport Minister John Graham emphasized the necessity of expanding bus services, particularly in rapidly growing regions where public transport has not kept pace with housing development.

The new bendy buses will be produced by Scania-Volgren, with parts manufactured in Queensland, exceeding the local content target.

Graham also reiterated the government's commitment to local content in bus manufacturing, aiming for 50% local content in future orders starting from 2027.

This funding initiative aims not only to increase the number of bus services and introduce new buses but also to address rising operational costs for local bus operators.

Additionally, the government plans to restore the connection between Parramatta and Sydney CBD by expanding the 500X service, which was previously cut.

New routes and service improvements will include connections between Macarthur Heights and Macarthur Station, as well as expansions of the M52 route and the 500X service.

Furthermore, an additional $150 million is dedicated to enhancing school bus services in rapidly growing outer suburbs and regional areas, along with $26 million for new standard buses to support expanded timetables.