Sydney Metropolitan Bus Service Contracts#Region 6
{{Use dmy dates|date=November 2019}}
The Sydney Metropolitan Bus Service Contracts are contracts issued by the Government of New South Wales to metropolitan bus operators in Sydney, Australia, to operate its public bus route network. Since 2005, the government has moved from individual contracts with operators to larger contract regions, leading to the consolidation of bus operators.
History
File:Transport NSW liveried (2514 ST), operated by Sydney Buses, Custom Coaches CB80 bodied Volvo B7RLE on Loftus Street in Circular Quay.jpg Custom Coaches bodied Volvo B7RLE at Circular Quay in June 2014 in Transport for NSW livery]]
File:Forest Coach Lines (mo 5441) Custom Coaches %27CB80%27 bodied Volvo B7RLE on Olympic Boulevard at Sydney Olympic Park.jpg Custom Coaches bodied Volvo B7RLE at Sydney Olympic Park in March 2013 in its green version of Transport for NSW's livery]]
In February 2004, the Unsworth Review of Bus Services conducted by former Transport Minister and Premier Barrie Unsworth, reported its findings to the Carr Government, recommending that the number of contract areas that existed in Sydney be reduced from 87 to 15 with a lead entity identified for each region to negotiate a contract.[https://web.archive.org/web/20180822180816/https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/bill/files/854/C5404.pdf Passenger Transport Amendment (Bus Reform Bill)] Government of New South Wales 2 June 2004 This was adopted with the first seven-year performance based contract signed in January 2005. By June 2005, eight had been signed.Annual Report for year ended 30 June 2005 Ministry of Transport pages 5/6 In some cases the existing operators formed joint venture companies to have a single contract with the government while in other regions there were some takeovers.
The contracts resulted in some consolidation of operators. Harris Park Transport and Moores Tours decided to cease operating at short notice in December 2004.[https://web.archive.org/web/20050213113905/http://www.citybusdirect.com.au/important.htm Important Notice] Harris Park Transport Some of Baxter's Bus Lines routes passed to Connex and Transit First in January 2005.[https://web.archive.org/web/20050204013601/http://baxtersbus.com.au/News.html Changes to Area 13 Route Services] Baxter's Bus Lines February 2005 Further consolidation took place after the contracts commenced with Baxter's selling its remaining routes to Westbus in September 2006, Transit First selling out to Connex in February 2007.[https://web.archive.org/web/20060816014657/http://www.baxtersbus.com.au/News.html Purchase of Baxter's Bus Lines Routes by ComfrtDelGro Cabcharge] Baxter's Bus Lines 26 July 2006[http://www.smh.com.au/news/Business/Veolia-to-expand-Sydney-bus-services/2007/01/09/1168104955916.html Veolia to expand Sydney bus services] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924193750/http://www.smh.com.au/news/Business/Veolia-to-expand-Sydney-bus-services/2007/01/09/1168104955916.html |date=24 September 2015 }} Sydney Morning Herald 9 January 2007 Veolia (formerly Connex), who operated in regions 10 and 13, took over region 11 operators Crowthers in January 2009 and Caringbah Bus Service in October 2011.[https://web.archive.org/web/20180929111059/https://www.busnews.com.au/industry-news/0901/veolia-buys-crowthers-buslink Veolia buys Crowthers Buslink] Australasian Bus & Coach 5 January 2009[https://web.archive.org/web/20180929111335/https://www.busnews.com.au/industry-news/1109/sutherland-covered Sutherland Covered] Australasian Bus & Coach 26 September 2011 The two takeovers resulted in the merger of regions 10 and 11 to form an expanded region 10, reducing the total number of regions to fourteen.
With the contracts coming up for renewal and following a change in government, the O'Farrell Government decided to put the provision of the services out to competitive tender.[http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/cut-costs-or-bus-contracts-will-go-to-private-sector-minister-tells-drivers-20121106-28w5t.html Cut costs or bus contracts will go to private sector, minister tells drivers] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130305174724/http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/cut-costs-or-bus-contracts-will-go-to-private-sector-minister-tells-drivers-20121106-28w5t.html |date=5 March 2013 }} Sydney Morning Herald 7 November 2012[https://www.busnews.com.au/industry-news/1211/tender-shock-rocks-sydney Tender shock rocks Sydney] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180930081404/https://www.busnews.com.au/industry-news/1211/tender-shock-rocks-sydney |date=30 September 2018 }} Australasian Bus & Coach 7 November 2012[https://web.archive.org/web/20120626181636/https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/content/sydney-bus-services-tenders Tenders open soon for Sydney bus services] Transport NSW 25 February 2013 Transdev NSW was able to negotiate a direct award for regions 10 and 13 after agreeing to provide access to its bus and depot assets at the end of the contracts.[https://web.archive.org/web/20180929110511/https://www.busnews.com.au/industry-news/1301/special-treatment-for-sydney-contracts Special treatment for Sydney contracts] Australasian Bus & Coach 16 January 2013 The regions operated by State Transit were not included at this stage, however region 6 was tendered out from July 2018.[https://web.archive.org/web/20180929171506/https://www.busnews.com.au/industry-news/1802/transit-systems-secures-region-6 Transit Systems secures Region 6] Australasian Bus & Coach 13 February 2018
Under the 2005 contracts, all new buses were purchased by the government and leased to the operators. As a result, when regions have changed hands, all of the post 2005 built buses have remained with the region, with the older buses retained by the outgoing operators.
=2020–2023 tenders=
With the exception of region 6, the government announced in October 2019 that the contracts for the other thirteen regions will be put out to competitive tender by 2022.{{cite web|url=https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/news-and-events/media-releases/new-bus-contracts-to-drive-improved-services|title=New bus contracts to drive improved services|publisher=Transport for NSW|date=24 October 2019|accessdate=24 October 2019|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20191024233538/https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/news-and-events/media-releases/new-bus-contracts-to-drive-improved-services|archivedate=24 October 2019|url-status=live}} These contracts were originally due to expire in 2021 and 2022.
The first three regions to be put out to tender were the three remaining State Transit regions 7 to 9. Tenders for Region 8 opened in June 2020 and closed on 30 September 2020, with Keolis Downer announced as the successful tenderer in May 2021.{{cite web|url=https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/node/11049|title=Tenders for Northern Beaches and Lower North Shore bus services now open|publisher=Transport for NSW|date=24 June 2020|accessdate=18 November 2020|archive-date=29 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929110503/https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/node/11049|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/news-and-events/media-releases/new-bus-operator-to-electrify-fleet|title=New Bus Operator to Electrify Fleet|publisher=Transport for NSW|date=28 May 2021|access-date=28 May 2021|archive-date=28 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210528022923/https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/news-and-events/media-releases/new-bus-operator-to-electrify-fleet|url-status=live}} Tenders for Region 7 opened in August 2020 and closed on 18 December 2020, with Busways announced as the successful tenderer in July 2021.{{cite web|url=https://www.tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.rft.show&RFTUUID=54852BC0-9F51-0C84-6C3B51610830625B|title=Greater Sydney Bus Contract 7 – TfNSW 2020-010 – TfNSW 2020-010|website=eTendering NSW|accessdate=18 November 2020|archive-date=18 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201118004021/https://www.tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.rft.show&RFTUUID=54852BC0-9F51-0C84-6C3B51610830625B|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.busways.com.au/news-items/busways-sydney-operations-more-double-award-one-transport-nsws-largest-bus-contracts|title=Busways' Sydney operations more than double with award of one of Transport for NSW’s largest bus contracts|publisher=Busways|date=30 July 2021|access-date=30 July 2021|archive-date=30 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210730002543/https://www.busways.com.au/news-items/busways-sydney-operations-more-double-award-one-transport-nsws-largest-bus-contracts|url-status=live}} Tenders for Region 9 opened in November 2020,{{cite web|url=https://www.tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.rft.show&RFTUUID=4232667F-0EC8-696A-63147DD6966A7108|title=Greater Sydney Bus Contract 9 – TfNSW 2020-009 – TfNSW 2020-009|website=eTendering NSW|accessdate=6 January 2021|archive-date=28 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210228163812/https://www.tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.rft.show&RFTUUID=4232667F-0EC8-696A-63147DD6966A7108|url-status=live}} with a joint venture of Transdev and John Holland announced as the successful tenderer in November 2021. The three regions were transitioned to the new operators on these following dates:
- Region 7 (North West) in January 2022
- Region 8 (Northern Beaches) in October 2021
- Region 9 (East) in April 2022
Between December 2021 and August 2022, the remaining ten regions were put out to tender in three tranches:{{cite web|url=https://infrastructurepipeline.org/project/sydney-metropolitan-bus-contracts|title=Sydney Metropolitan Bus Contracts|website=Australia New Zealand Infrastructure Pipeline|access-date=12 August 2021|archive-date=12 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210812064822/https://infrastructurepipeline.org/project/sydney-metropolitan-bus-contracts|url-status=live}}
- Tranche 1: Regions 4, 12 and 14. Contracts for Regions 12 and 14 can be consolidated in a single bid. Tenders opened in January 2022 and closed on 14 April 2022. In November 2022, CDC NSW, the incumbent operator for Regions 4 and 14, was awarded the contracts for the three regions, with region 12 to be consolidated into Region 14.
- Tranche 2: Regions 3, 5, 10 and 13. Any combination of the four contracts can be consolidated in a single bid. Tenders opened between March and May 2022. In December 2022, Transit Systems NSW, the incumbent operator for Region 3, was awarded the contracts for Regions 3 and 13, with region 13 to be consolidated into Region 3.{{cite web|url=https://www.transitsystems.com.au/news/2022/12/22/transit-systems-retains-and-adds-greater-sydney-bus-contracts|title=Transit Systems retains and adds Greater Sydney Bus Contracts|publisher=Transit Systems|date=22 December 2022|access-date=22 December 2022|archive-date=22 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221222024841/https://www.transitsystems.com.au/news/2022/12/22/transit-systems-retains-and-adds-greater-sydney-bus-contracts|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://cdn-api.markitdigital.com/apiman-gateway/ASX/asx-research/1.0/file/2924-02615742-2A1421986?access_token=83ff96335c2d45a094df02a206a39ff4|title=Kelsian Awarded New Sydney Bus Services Contract|website=Australian Securities Exchange|publisher=Kelsian|date=22 December 2022|access-date=22 December 2022|archive-date=22 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221222040204/https://cdn-api.markitdigital.com/apiman-gateway/ASX/asx-research/1.0/file/2924-02615742-2A1421986?access_token=83ff96335c2d45a094df02a206a39ff4|url-status=live}} The contracts for Regions 5 and 10, with region 5 consolidated into region 10, were awarded to U-Go Mobility, a new joint venture between UGL and Go-Ahead Group.{{cite web|url=https://www.ugllimited.com/en/news/2022/cimics-ugl-awarded-250-million-contract-to-operate-buses-in-sydneys-southwest|title=CIMIC's UGL awarded $250 million contract to operate buses in Sydney's South-West|publisher=UGL Limited|date=22 December 2022|access-date=22 December 2022|archive-date=23 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221223043836/https://www.ugllimited.com/en/news/2022/cimics-ugl-awarded-250-million-contract-to-operate-buses-in-sydneys-southwest|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://newsroom.go-ahead.com/news/go-ahead-and-ugl-win-contract-to-operate-buses-in-sydneys-south-west|title=Go-Ahead and UGL win contract to operate buses in Sydney's South-West|publisher=Go-head|date=22 December 2022|access-date=22 December 2022|archive-date=22 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221222105404/https://newsroom.go-ahead.com/news/go-ahead-and-ugl-win-contract-to-operate-buses-in-sydneys-south-west|url-status=live}}
- Tranche 3: Regions 1, 2 and 15. Tenders opened between June and August 2022. In February 2023, Busways, the incumbent operator for Region 1, was awarded the contract for the region, while Transit Systems was awarded the contracts for Regions 2 and 15, with Region 15 to be consolidated into Region 2.{{cite web|url=https://www.busways.com.au/news-items/busways-retains-bus-operations-rapidly-expanding-western-sydney|title=Busways retains bus operations in rapidly expanding Western Sydney|publisher=Busways|date=23 February 2023|access-date=25 March 2023|archive-date=25 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230325030848/https://www.busways.com.au/news-items/busways-retains-bus-operations-rapidly-expanding-western-sydney|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.transitsystems.com.au/news/2023/2/20/transit-systems-continues-to-grow-its-government-bus-portfolio|title=Transit Systems Continues To Grow Its Government Bus Portfolio|website=Transit Systems|date=20 February 2023|access-date=25 March 2023|archive-date=23 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230323000656/https://www.transitsystems.com.au/news/2023/2/20/transit-systems-continues-to-grow-its-government-bus-portfolio|url-status=live}}
The new contracts of the ten regions commenced between April and December 2023.
Livery
A requirement of the contracts is that operators adopt a white and two blues livery as prescribed by Transport for NSW, this was implemented from 2010. Forest Coach Lines' 2005 contract did not require their buses to be repainted blue, hence the livery applied to their buses saw the blue replaced with green. This loophole was closed when the region was tendered in 2012.[https://web.archive.org/web/20130429234428/http://origin.manly-daily.whereilive.com.au/news/story/blue-over-green-forest-coach-lines-buses/ Blue over green Forest Coach Lines buses] Manly Daily 11 January 2013
Current contracts
Since October 2023, there are 10 contract regions in Sydney, each of which is tied to a geographical area. Current contracts commenced prior to 2018 operate for five years, with an option to extend for a further three years. Contracts commenced and awarded since 2018 are for an eight-year period. All of these contracts were awarded via open tender.{{cite report|url=http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/b2b/publications/annual_reports/tfnsw-annual-report-2013-14.pdf|title=Transport for NSW 2013/14 Annual Report|publisher=Transport for NSW|pages=38–39|access-date=17 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141205164711/http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/b2b/publications/annual_reports/tfnsw-annual-report-2013-14.pdf|archive-date=5 December 2014|url-status=dead}}
Region details
=Region 1=
Region 1 covers the outer western suburbs between Blacktown, Penrith, Windsor and Richmond. It also operated route 740 services via the M2 Hills Motorway to Macquarie Centre, which ceased in May 2019.[http://www.sydneybusroutes.com/images/PDFs/regional%20reviews.pdf Regional reviews by Ministry of Transport] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210519013650/http://www.sydneybusroutes.com/images/PDFs/regional%20reviews.pdf |date=19 May 2021 }} Sydney Bus Routes[https://web.archive.org/web/20120325104447/http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/file/abouttrans/Region-1.pdf Region 1] Transport NSW{{cite web|url=https://www.busways.com.au/service-updates/western-sydney-bus-service-adjustments-26-may|title=Western Sydney bus service adjustments from 26 May|website=Busways|access-date=7 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190507014811/https://www.busways.com.au/service-updates/western-sydney-bus-service-adjustments-26-may|archive-date=7 May 2019|url-status=live}}
When the region was established in 2005, services were operated by the Area 1 Management Company consortium of incumbent operators Busways, Hawkesbury Valley Buses and Westbus. Following a competitive tendering process, on 6 October 2013 Busways took over all services in the region in its own right.[https://web.archive.org/web/20130419022845/http://www.busways.com.au/information/news/busways-wins-300-bus-contract-western-sydney Busways wins 300 bus contract in Western Sydney] Busways 7 November 2012[https://tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.cn.view&CNUUID=FDA3F479-DF41-45F5-6DFAFC4DD82C46C7 Sydney Metropolitan Bus Service Contract – SMBCS01] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180930081322/https://tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.cn.view&CNUUID=FDA3F479-DF41-45F5-6DFAFC4DD82C46C7 |date=30 September 2018 }} NSW eTendering In February 2023, following another competitive tendering process, Busways successfully retained and was awarded a seven-year contract for Region 1. The contract will commence in December 2023.
=Region 2=
Region 2 initially covered the south western suburbs between Liverpool, Ingleburn and Hoxton Park. Other principal suburbs are Bringelly and Glenfield.[http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/file/abouttrans/Region-2.pdf Region 2] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120325104347/http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/file/abouttrans/Region-2.pdf |date=25 March 2012 }} Transport NSW
When the region was established in 2005, services were operated by the Area 2 Management Company consortium of incumbent operators Busabout and Interline. Following a competitive tendering process, on 1 June 2014 Interline took over all services in the region in its own right.[http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/media-releases/more-60-new-buses-and-improved-customer-service-new-bus-contracts More than 60 new buses and improved customer service with new bus contracts] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130908074902/http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/media-releases/more-60-new-buses-and-improved-customer-service-new-bus-contracts |date=8 September 2013 }} Transport for NSW 29 August 2013[https://web.archive.org/web/20140510222631/http://busabout.com.au/news.html Busabout News May 2014] Busabout
Nine years later, in February 2023, following another competitive tendering process, Transit Systems was awarded a new contract for the region. The region also consolidated region 15 and expanded to cover Camden, Narellan and Macarthur, as well as services to Wollongong. The new contract commenced on 8 October 2023, with Transit Systems taking over Region 2 services from Interline and Region 15 services from Busabout.
=Region 3=
Region 3 initially covered the south western suburbs between Parramatta, Liverpool and Bonnyrigg. Other principal suburbs are Cabramatta, Fairfield and Wetherill Park.[http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/file/abouttrans/Region-3.pdf Region 3] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120325105456/http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/file/abouttrans/Region-3.pdf |date=25 March 2012}} Transport NSW
When the region was established in 2005, services were operated by the Area 3 Management Company consortium of incumbent operators Baxter's Bus Lines, Busabout, Hopkinsons, Metro-link and Westbus which operated all routes except Liverpool–Parramatta T-way route T80 which was operated by Western Sydney Buses. Baxter's sold its routes to Westbus in September 2006.[https://web.archive.org/web/20130425120251/http://transitsystems.com.au/articles/204-transit-systems-awarded-sydney-buses-contract Transit Systems awarded Sydney buses contract] Transit Systems 7 November 2012
Following a competitive tendering process, on 13 October 2013, Transit Systems took over the operation of the region. Nine years later, in December 2022, following another competitive tender process, Transit Systems retained and was awarded a seven-year contract for the region. The region also consolidated region 13 and expanded to cover Lidcombe, Granville, Bankstown and Burwood. The new contract commenced on 6 August 2023, with Transit Systems taking over Region 13 services from Transdev NSW.
=Region 4=
Region 4 covers The Hills district including Parramatta, Pennant Hills, Castle Hill and Rouse Hill. Other principal suburbs are Dural, Blacktown and Baulkham Hills. It also operates services via the M2 Hills Motorway to Macquarie Centre, Chatswood, Milsons Point and the Sydney CBD.[https://web.archive.org/web/20120325104217/http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/file/abouttrans/Region-4.pdf Region 4] Transport NSW
When the region was established in 2005, services were operated by incumbent operator Hillsbus. Hillsbus successfully bid to retain the region with a new contract commencing on 1 August 2014.[http://member.afraccess.com/media?id=CMN://2A752590&filename=20130829/CAB_01438664.pdf NSW Bus Contract – Region 4] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180930081448/http://member.afraccess.com/media?id=CMN://2A752590&filename=20130829/CAB_01438664.pdf |date=30 September 2018 }} Cabcharge 29 August 2013
Following the short notice cessation of operations by Harris Park Transport, its routes in the Hills District were taken over by Hillsbus on 20 December 2004, then transferred to Sydney Buses as part of region 7 on 28 January 2005, with six routes returning to Region 4 on 25 September 2005.[https://web.archive.org/web/20050307130533/http://www.hillsbus.com.au/schools/harris%20park%20bus%20finish%20a4%20poster.pdf Some Hillsbus Services Will Cease Operation from Midnight Thurs 27 Jan 2005] Hillsbus[http://www.sydneybusroutes.com/images/PDFs/rtehist%20reg%204.pdf Region 4 changes] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210819020917/http://www.sydneybusroutes.com/images/PDFs/rtehist%20reg%204.pdf |date=19 August 2021 }} Sydney Private Bus routes
Following a tendering process, CDC NSW (parent company of Hillsbus) retained and was awarded an eight-year contract for Region 4 in November 2022.{{cite web|url=https://cdcbus.com.au/comfortdelgro-australia-group-wins-bid-to-expand-bus-services-in-sydney/|title=ComfortDelGro Australia Group Wins Bid to Expand Bus Services in Sydney|publisher=CDC NSW|date=7 November 2022|access-date=7 November 2022|archive-date=7 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221107060707/https://cdcbus.com.au/comfortdelgro-australia-group-wins-bid-to-expand-bus-services-in-sydney/|url-status=live}} The new contract commenced in April 2023.{{cite web|url=https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/comfortdelgro-wins-city-bus-contracts-worth-a17b-in-sydney|title=ComfortDelGro wins city bus contracts worth A$1.7b in Sydney|publisher=The Business Times Singapore|date=7 November 2022|access-date=7 November 2022|archive-date=7 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221107060718/https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/comfortdelgro-wins-city-bus-contracts-worth-a17b-in-sydney|url-status=live}} The Hillsbus brand was phased out in favour of the CDC NSW brand.
=Region 6=
Region 6 covers the Inner West and southern suburbs with services extending to the Sydney CBD, Chatswood, Taronga Zoo, Westfield Eastgardens, Bondi Junction, Hurstville and Miranda. Principal suburbs are Ashfield, Burwood, Campsie, Leichhardt, Rockdale and Sydney Olympic Park. The region operates out of Burwood, Kingsgrove, Leichhardt and Tempe depots.[https://web.archive.org/web/20110312043309/http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/file/abouttrans/Region-6.pdf Region 6] Transport NSW
When the region was established in 2005, the region was operated by incumbent operator State Transit. The contract was renewed 1 July 2013 for five years without a competitive tendering process.{{cite web|url=https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/media/documents/2017/sta-annual-report-2013-14_0.pdf|title=State Transit 2013/14 Annual Report|publisher=Transport for NSW|access-date=27 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181127025036/https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/media/documents/2017/sta-annual-report-2013-14_0.pdf|archive-date=27 November 2018|url-status=live}}
In May 2017, the government announced the operation of region 6 would be contracted out to the private sector.[http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-05-16/nsw-government-announces-inner-west-buses-tender/8528494 NSW Transport Minister announces inner-west bus region tender] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170716212948/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-05-16/nsw-government-announces-inner-west-buses-tender/8528494 |date=16 July 2017 }} ABC News 16 May 2017[https://web.archive.org/web/20170516090619/https://www.busnews.com.au/industry-news/1705/sydney-route-privatisation Sydney Route Privatisation] Australasian Bus & Coach 16 May 2017 The contract was awarded to Transit Systems with operations commencing on 1 July 2018.[https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/news-and-events/media-releases/transit-systems-boosts-inner-west-bus-services Transit systems boosts Inner West bus services] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180529221046/https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/news-and-events/media-releases/transit-systems-boosts-inner-west-bus-services |date=29 May 2018 }} Transport for NSW 13 February 2018[https://tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.cn.view&CNUUID=CB45D643-EB43-6685-4133F86E9DAE301C Sydney Metropolitan Bus Service Contract – SMBCS06] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180930081528/https://tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.cn.view&CNUUID=CB45D643-EB43-6685-4133F86E9DAE301C |date=30 September 2018 }} NSW eTendering
=Region 7=
Region 7 covers the north western suburbs with services extending to the Sydney CBD. Principal suburbs are Chatswood, Epping, Macquarie Park, North Sydney, Ryde and Parramatta. The region operates out of Ryde depot and Willoughby depot.[https://web.archive.org/web/20110312043340/http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/file/abouttrans/Region-7.pdf Region 7] Transport NSW
When the region was established in 2005, the region was operated by incumbent operator State Transit. State Transit permanently took control of a few former Harris Park Transport services in September 2005, and the region expanded to cover the whole of Carlingford, Epping and include North Rocks, West Pennant Hills and Beecroft for the first time.
The contract was renewed on 1 July 2013, and again on 1 July 2017 for five years without a competitive tendering process.{{cite web|url=https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/system/files/media/documents/2018/State-Transit-Annual-Report-17-18_0.pdf|title=State Transit Authority Annual Report 2017/2018|page=23|publisher=Transport for NSW|date=23 November 2018|access-date=27 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181127024436/https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/system/files/media/documents/2018/State-Transit-Annual-Report-17-18_0.pdf|archive-date=27 November 2018|url-status=live}} The contract was put out to competitive tender in 2020 and was awarded to Busways, with operations commencing on 9 January 2022.
=Region 8=
Region 8 covers the lower North Shore and Northern Beaches with services extending to the Sydney CBD. Principal suburbs are Brookvale, Chatswood, Manly, Mosman, North Sydney and Palm Beach. The region operates out of Brookvale, Mona Vale, North Sydney depots.[https://web.archive.org/web/20110221040053/http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/file/abouttrans/Region-8.pdf Region 8] Transport NSW
When the region was established in 2005, the region was operated by incumbent operator State Transit. The contract was renewed on 1 July 2013, and again on 1 July 2017 for five years without a competitive tendering process. The contract was put out to competitive tender in 2020 and was awarded to Keolis Downer Northern Beaches, with operations commencing on 31 October 2021.{{cite web|url=https://www.keolisdowner.com.au/keolis-downer-partners-with-tfnsw-to-deliver-innovative-transport-solutions-in-sydneys-northern-beaches-as-the-future-bus-operator/|title=Keolis Downer partners with TfNSW to deliver innovative transport solutions in Sydney’s Northern beaches as the future bus operator|publisher=Keolis Downer|date=28 May 2021|access-date=28 May 2021|archive-date=16 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210616202414/https://www.keolisdowner.com.au/keolis-downer-partners-with-tfnsw-to-deliver-innovative-transport-solutions-in-sydneys-northern-beaches-as-the-future-bus-operator/|url-status=live}}
=Region 9=
Region 9 covers the Eastern Suburbs with services extending to the Sydney CBD and Leichhardt. Principal suburbs are Bondi Junction, Botany, Maroubra, Mascot, Randwick and Surry Hills. The region operates out of Port Botany, Randwick and Waverley depots.[https://web.archive.org/web/20110221040203/http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/file/abouttrans/Region-9.pdf Region 9] Transport NSW
When the region was established in 2005, the region was operated by incumbent operator State Transit. The contract was renewed on 1 July 2013, and again on 1 July 2017 for five years without a competitive tendering process. The contract was put out to competitive tender in 2021 and was awarded to Transdev John Holland, with operations commencing on 3 April 2022.{{cite web|url=https://www.johnholland.com.au/who-we-are/latest-news/transdev-john-holland-jv-sets-pathway-to-greener-connections-in-sydney-s-eastern-suburbs/|title=Transdev John Holland JV Sets Pathway To Greener Connections In Sydney's Eastern Suburbs|publisher=John Holland|date=26 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211126030516/https://www.johnholland.com.au/who-we-are/latest-news/transdev-john-holland-jv-sets-pathway-to-greener-connections-in-sydney-s-eastern-suburbs/|archive-date=26 November 2021|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.busnews.com.au/industry-news/2111/sydney-region-9-bus-contract-secured-john-holland-transdev|title=Sydney Region 9 bus contract secured: John Holland-Transdev|publisher=Australasian Bus & Coach|date=26 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211126031934/https://www.busnews.com.au/industry-news/2111/sydney-region-9-bus-contract-secured-john-holland-transdev|archive-date=26 November 2021|url-status=live}}
=Region 10=
Region 10 initially covered the south western suburbs between Bankstown, Sutherland and Engadine. Other principal suburbs are Hurstville, Menai, and Miranda. It also operates services to Burwood, Parramatta and Liverpool.[http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/file/abouttrans/Region-10.pdf Region 10] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120325104322/http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/file/abouttrans/Region-10.pdf |date=25 March 2012 }} Transport NSW
When the region was established in 2005, it was operated by incumbent operator Connex that was later rebranded Veolia Transport, Veolia Transdev then Transdev NSW.
Region 11 was absorbed into Region 10 in September 2009. Region 10 then covered all of the Sutherland Shire. Caringbah Bus Service's routes were taken over by Veolia in October 2011.
On 1 January 2013, Transdev NSW commenced a new contract that was awarded without a competitive tendering process. Maianbar Bundeena Bus Service continue to operate route 989 from Bundeena as a subcontractor to Transdev.[https://web.archive.org/web/20140103093554/http://www.transdev.com.au/uploads/articles/MR%20VTNSW%2016Jan2013%20FINAL.pdf Veolia Transdev Secures Bus Contracts] Transdev Australasia 16 January 2013[https://tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.cn.view&CNUUID=FDA43CF7-B712-7E00-9950A5A5E2ADD167 Sydney Metropolitan Bus Service Contract - SMBCS10] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180930081546/https://tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.cn.view&CNUUID=FDA43CF7-B712-7E00-9950A5A5E2ADD167 |date=30 September 2018 }} NSW eTendering In December 2022, following a competitive tender process, U-Go Mobility was awarded a seven-year contract for region 10. The region also consolidated region 5 and expanded to cover Lakemba, Punchbowl, Roselands and Mortdale. The new contract commenced on 1 July 2023, with U-Go Mobility taking over Region 10 services from Transdev NSW and Region 5 services from Punchbowl Bus Company.
=Region 14=
Region 14 initially covered the Forest district including Chatswood, Belrose, Frenchs Forest, Terrey Hills, St Ives and Gordon. It also operates services to the Sydney CBD.[https://web.archive.org/web/20110221042624/http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/file/abouttrans/Region-14.pdf Region 14] Transport NSW
When the region was established in 2005, it was operated by incumbent operator Forest Coach Lines. It successfully bid to retain the region with a new contract commencing on 1 April 2013.
In October 2019, the NSW Government announced that it would open 13 out of the 14 contracts for competitive tender. In January 2022, tendering was opened for Regions 12, 14 and 4, closing on 14 April 2022. Transport for NSW has also indicated that Regions 12 and 14 may be procured together.{{Cite web |title=Sydney Metropolitan Bus Contract 14 – Forest District – Infrastructure Pipeline |url=https://infrastructurepipeline.org/project/sydney-metropolitan-bus-contract-14-forest-district |access-date=17 May 2022 |website=infrastructurepipeline.org |archive-date=17 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220517074857/https://infrastructurepipeline.org/project/sydney-metropolitan-bus-contract-14-forest-district |url-status=live }} In November 2022, CDC NSW (parent company of Forest Coach Lines) retained and was awarded a seven-year contract for Region 14. The region also consolidated Region 12 and expanded to cover the Upper North Shore and Hornsby to Hawkesbury River area, including Hornsby, Berowra and Brooklyn. The new contract commenced on 21 May 2023, with the Forest Coach Lines brand was phased out in favour the CDC NSW brand, and CDC NSW taking over Region 12 services from Transdev NSW.
Former regions
=Region 5=
Region 5 covered the south western suburbs between Strathfield, Bankstown and Hurstville. Other principal suburbs are Lakemba, Punchbowl, Roselands and Mortdale. It also operates services to Strathfield and Sydney Olympic Park.[https://web.archive.org/web/20110221035556/http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/file/abouttrans/Region-5.pdf Region 5] Transport NSW
Harris Park Transport routes operated in the St George area and Moore's Tours routes were transferred to Punchbowl Bus Co on 20 December 2004.[http://www.sydneybusroutes.com/images/PDFs/rtehist%20reg%205.pdf Region 5 changes] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210819040825/http://www.sydneybusroutes.com/images/PDFs/rtehist%20reg%205.pdf |date=19 August 2021 }} Sydney Private Bus routes[http://www.punchbowlbus.com.au/about-us About us] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141028104314/http://www.punchbowlbus.com.au/about-us |date=28 October 2014 }} Punchbowl Bus Co
When the region was established in 2005, services were operated by incumbents Pleasure Tours and Punchbowl Bus Company. The Pleasure Tours routes were taken over by Punchbowl Bus Co on 10 July 2005. Punchbowl Bus Co successfully bid to retain the region with a new contract commencing on 1 July 2014.[https://tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.cn.view&CNUUID=FDA42CD0-A9FD-BB08-A6114A97871635EA Sydney Metropolitan Bus Service Contract – SMBCS05] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180930081509/https://tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.cn.view&CNUUID=FDA42CD0-A9FD-BB08-A6114A97871635EA |date=30 September 2018 }} NSW eTendering Eight years later, in December 2022, following another competitive tender process, Punchbowl Bus Co was unsuccessful in retaining the contract. U-Go Mobility was awarded a seven-year contract for region 10 which also consolidated region 5. Region 5 ceased to exist and U-Go Mobility took over bus services from Punchbowl Bus Co on 1 July 2023.
=Region 11=
Region 11 covered the Miranda, Cronulla, Bundeena area in the Sutherland Shire. Other principal suburbs were Caringbah and Kurnell.[https://web.archive.org/web/20110221041344/http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/file/abouttrans/Region-11.pdf Region 11] Transport NSW
When the region was established in 2005, services were operated by incumbent operators Caringbah Bus Service, Crowthers and Maianbar Bundeena Bus Service. Crowthers' routes were taken over by Veolia Transport on 1 January 2009. Region 11 was absorbed into Region 10 on 21 September 2009.[http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/b2b/bus/sydney-bus-contract-map.pdf Sydney Bus Contract Map 2012] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714205854/http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/b2b/bus/sydney-bus-contract-map.pdf |date=14 July 2014 }} Transport for NSW
=Region 12=
Region 12 covered the Upper North Shore and Hornsby to Hawkesbury River area with a limited peak hour service extending to the Sydney CBD. Principal suburbs are Chatswood, Gordon, Hornsby, Berowra and Brooklyn.[https://web.archive.org/web/20110221042103/http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/file/abouttrans/Region-12.pdf Region 12] Transport NSW
When the region was established in 2005, services were operated by incumbent operator Shorelink, which was rebranded TransdevTSL Shorelink in 2008 [https://web.archive.org/web/20080919050611/http://www.shorelink.com.au/news.html TransdevTSL Shorelink News] September 2008 and then Transdev Shorelink in 2010.[http://www.busnsw.com.au/Portals/15/News%20&%20Media/Publications/Metro%20Tender%20Announcement%20-%207-11-12%20%20final.pdf Mixed Result for Private Bus Operators] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130424014336/http://www.busnsw.com.au/Portals/15/News%20%26%20Media/Publications/Metro%20Tender%20Announcement%20-%207-11-12%20%20final.pdf |date=24 April 2013 }} Bus & Coach Association NSW 7 November 2012
Following the merger of Transdev and Veolia Transport, Transdev Shorelink was merged into Transdev NSW. It successfully bid to retain the region with a new contract commencing on 1 June 2013.[https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/newsroom-and-events/media-releases/new-bus-contracts-benefit-customers-and-taxpayers New bus contracts benefit customers and taxpayers] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180920122940/https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/newsroom-and-events/media-releases/new-bus-contracts-benefit-customers-and-taxpayers |date=20 September 2018 }} Transport for NSW 7 November 2012
In October 2019, the NSW Government announced that it would open 13 out of the 14 contracts for competitive tender. Transport for NSW also indicated that Regions 12 and 14 may be procured together. In January 2022, tendering was opened for Regions 12, 14 and 4, closing on 14 April 2022.{{Cite web |title=Sydney Metropolitan Bus Contract 12 – Upper North Shore – Infrastructure Pipeline |url=https://infrastructurepipeline.org/project/sydney-metropolitan-bus-contract-12-upper-north-shore-1 |access-date=2022-05-17 |website=infrastructurepipeline.org |archive-date=27 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220627013434/https://infrastructurepipeline.org/project/sydney-metropolitan-bus-contract-12-upper-north-shore-1 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |title=eTendering – Current Tender Detail View – TfNSW 2021 012-013-014-015 |url=https://www.tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.rft.show&RFTUUID=05FACA4B-C4CD-B8D2-52A34CE9A07D3287 |access-date=2022-05-17 |website=www.tenders.nsw.gov.au |archive-date=9 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220309184456/https://www.tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.rft.show&RFTUUID=05FACA4B-C4CD-B8D2-52A34CE9A07D3287 |url-status=live }} In November 2022, CDC NSW was successfully awarded the contract for region 14 which also consolidated region 12. Region 12 ceased to exist and CDC NSW took over the services from Transdev NSW on 21 May 2023.
=Region 13=
Region 13 covered the south western suburbs between Lidcombe, Granville, Bankstown and Liverpool. Other principal suburbs are Burwood and Parramatta.[https://web.archive.org/web/20110221042523/http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/file/abouttrans/Region-13.pdf Region 13] Transport NSW
When the region was established in 2005, services were operated by incumbent operators Connex (that was later rebranded Veolia Transport, Veolia Transdev then Transdev NSW) and Transit First. Some of the routes were previously operated by Baxter's Bus Lines and were transferred to Connex and Transit First on 1 January 2005.[http://www.sydneybusroutes.com/images/PDFs/rtehist%20reg%2013.pdf Region 13 changes] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201025071331/http://www.sydneybusroutes.com/images/PDFs/rtehist%20reg%2013.pdf |date=25 October 2020 }} Sydney Private Bus Routes In February 2007. Connex purchased Transit First.
On 1 May 2013, Transdev NSW commenced a new contract that was awarded without a competitive tendering process.[https://tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.cn.view&CNUUID=FDA45789-0B54-702A-9E2496D94E3C6724 Sydney Metropolitan Bus Service Contract – SMBCS13] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180930081437/https://tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.cn.view&CNUUID=FDA45789-0B54-702A-9E2496D94E3C6724 |date=30 September 2018 }} NSW eTendering In December 2022, following a competitive tender process, Transit Systems NSW was awarded the contract for region 3 which also consolidated region 13. Region 13 ceased to exist and Transit Systems took over the services from Transdev on 6 August 2023.
=Region 15=
Region 15 covered the south western suburbs between Campbelltown and Camden . Other principal suburbs were Narellan and Macarthur. It also operated services to Wollongong.[https://web.archive.org/web/20110221042730/http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/file/abouttrans/Region-15.pdf Region 15] Transport NSW
When the region was established in 2005, the region was operated by incumbent operator Busways. Following a competitive tendering process, on 1 June 2014 Busabout took over the operation of the region.[https://web.archive.org/web/20140418220602/http://www.busways.com.au/region/campbelltown Busways Campbelltown] Busways[https://tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.cn.view&CNUUID=FDC1197A-BAE8-14BC-4C5DA9D886DB328E Sydney Metropolitan Bus Service Contract – SMBCS15] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180930081428/https://tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.cn.view&CNUUID=FDC1197A-BAE8-14BC-4C5DA9D886DB328E |date=30 September 2018 }} NSW eTendering Nine years later, in February 2023, following another competitive tender process, Transit Systems NSW was awarded the contract for region 2 which also consolidated region 15. Region 15 ceased to exist and Transit Systems took over the services from Busabout on 8 October 2023.{{Cite web |date=3 October 2023 |title=As of 8th of October 2023, Busabout will no longer provide Buses services for Region 15 |url=https://www.busabout.com.au/as-of-8th-of-october-2023-busabout-will-no-longer-provide-buses-services-for-region-15/ |access-date=7 September 2024 |website=Busabout Sydney |language=en-AU}}
Patronage
File:Sydneybuspatronagecovid.png
| class="wikitable sortable plainrowheaders" style="text-align: middle;"
|+ Annual Patronage per Region from 2017 to 2022 [https://opendata.transport.nsw.gov.au/dataset/opal-trips-bus Opal Trips – Bus] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190817120141/https://opendata.transport.nsw.gov.au/dataset/opal-trips-bus |date=17 August 2019 }} Transport for NSW Open Data | ||||||||||
| scope="col" data-sort-type="number" | Rank
! scope="col" data-sort-type="number" | Region ! scope="col" | Operator ! scope="col" data-sort-type="number" | 2017 ! scope="col" data-sort-type="number" | 2018 ! scope="col" data-sort-type="number" | 2019 ! scope="col" data-sort-type="number" | 2020 {{efn|name=2019–20}} ! scope="col" data-sort-type="number" | 2021 {{efn|name=2019–20}} ! scope="col" data-sort-type="number" | 2022 ! scope="col" data-sort-type="number" | Total ! scope="col" data-sort-type="number" | Total | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| align="center" | 1 | align="center" | 9 | State Transit (till 2022) Transdev John Holland (from 2022) | 71,684,642 | 68,363,589 | 67,869,614 | 35,720,364 | 26,054,388 | 35,152,671 | align="center" | {{font color|red| -5.32%}} | align="center" | {{font color|red| -61.61%}} |
| align="center" | 2 | align="center" | 6 | State Transit (2017) Transit Systems (from 2018) | 48,246,291 | 55,169,998 | 60,451,349 | 33,740,937 | 25,600,932 | 33,320,621 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +25.30%}} | align="center" | {{font color|red| -57.65%}} |
| align="center" | 3 | align="center" | 8 | State Transit (till 2021) Keolis Downer (from 2021) | 26,159,684 | 28,983,479 | 30,943,722 | 18,285,044 | 15,553,334 | 19,595,983 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +18.29%}} | align="center" | {{font color|red| -49.74%}} |
| align="center" | 4 | align="center" | 7 | State Transit (till 2022) Busways (from 2022) | 29,555,761 | 31,614,292 | 34,263,448 | 18,706,534 | 14,447,204 | 19,451,964 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +15.93%}} | align="center" | {{font color|red| -57.83%}} |
| align="center" | 5 | align="center" | 4 | Hillsbus | 22,147,493 | 24,708,501 | 24,554,212 | 12,111,689 | 9,517,589 | 13,288,118 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +10.87%}} | align="center" | {{font color|red| -61.24%}} |
| align="center" | 6 | align="center" | 1 | Busways Western Sydney | 12,139,979 | 13,236,871 | 13,816,261 | 8,838,952 | 6,700,613 | 8,121,394 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +13.81% }} | align="center" | {{font color|red| -51.50%}} |
| align="center" | 7 | align="center" | 3 | Transit Systems | 12,173,957 | 12,879,292 | 13,245,189 | 8,128,237 | 5,985,520 | 7,249,537 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +8.80%}} | align="center" | {{font color|red| -54.81%}} |
| align="center" | 8 | align="center" | 13 | Transdev NSW | 8,364,105 | 8,873,353 | 9,204,134 | 5,907,729 | 4,464,843 | 5,358,299 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +10.04%}} | align="center" | {{font color|red| -51.49%}} |
| align="center" | 9 | align="center" | 10 | Transdev NSW and Maianbar Bundeena Bus Service | 7,777,172 | 8,196,536 | 8,672,375 | 5,549,277 | 4,178,317 | 5,132,273 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +11.51%}} | align="center" | {{font color|red| -51.82%}} |
| align="center" | 10 | align="center" | 14 | Forest Coach Lines | 4,851,299 | 5,169,614 | 5,632,071 | 3,360,149 | 3,023,221 | 3,572,495 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +16.09%}} | align="center" | {{font color|red| -46.32%}} |
| align="center" | 11 | align="center" | 5 | Punchbowl Bus Company | 3,538,852 | 3,850,045 | 4,134,186 | 2,758,716 | 2,239,215 | 2,785,475 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +16.82%}} | align="center" | {{font color|red| -45.84%}} |
| align="center" | 12 | align="center" | 2 | Interline Bus Service | 3,664,100 | 3,928,593 | 4,432,147 | 2,797,068 | 2,131,462 | 2,473,229 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +20.96%}} | align="center" | {{font color|red| -51.91%}} |
| align="center" | 13 | align="center" | 12 | Transdev NSW | 3,412,400 | 3,601,886 | 3,997,576 | 2,335,640 | 1,813,076 | 2,285,795 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +17.15%}} | align="center" | {{font color|red| -54.65%}} |
| align="center" | 14 | align="center" | 15 | Busabout | 3,075,445 | 3,876,003 | 3,852,954 | 2,483,749 | 1,832,222 | 2,082,117 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +25.28%}} | align="center" | {{font color|red| -52.45%}} |
| colspan="3" align="center" ! | TOTAL || 256,791,180||272,452,052||285,069,238||160,724,085||121,815,166|| 159,869,971 || align="center" | {{font color|green| +11.01%}} || align="center" | {{font color|red| -57.27%}} |
| class="wikitable sortable plainrowheaders" style="text-align: middle;"
|+ Annual Patronage per Region from 2023 [https://opendata.transport.nsw.gov.au/dataset/opal-trips-bus Opal Trips – Bus] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190817120141/https://opendata.transport.nsw.gov.au/dataset/opal-trips-bus |date=17 August 2019 }} Transport for NSW Open Data | |||||
| scope="col" data-sort-type="number" | Rank
! scope="col" data-sort-type="number" | Region ! scope="col" | Operator ! scope="col" data-sort-type="number" | 2023 ! scope="col" data-sort-type="number" | 2024 ! scope="col" data-sort-type="number" | Total | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| align="center" | 1 | align="center" | 9 | Transdev John Holland | 49,418,431 | 52,481,629 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +5.84%}} |
| align="center" | 2 | align="center" | 6 | Transit Systems | 45,549,877 | 49,017,212 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +7.07% }} |
| align="center" | 3 | align="center" | 8 | Keolis Downer | 25,248,170 | 26,847,401 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +5.96% }} |
| align="center" | 4 | align="center" | 7 | Busways | 25,311,396 | 25,898,891 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +2.27% }} |
| align="center" | 5 | align="center" | 4 | Hillsbus | 17,796,352 | 18,686,322 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +4.76% }} |
| align="center" | 6 | align="center" | 3 (and 13{{efn|name=2023contract13}}) | Transit Systems (and Transdev NSW until Aug 2023) | 16,332,004 | 16,888,197 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +3.29% }} |
| align="center" | 7 | align="center" | 1 | Busways Western Sydney | 10,506,591 | 11,754,289 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +10.61% }} |
| align="center" | 8 | align="center" | 10 (and 5{{efn|name=2023contract5}}) | Transit Systems (Transdev NSW, Maianbar Bundeena Bus Service and Punchbowl Bus Company until Jul 2023) | 8,888,797 | 9,074,866 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +2.05% }} |
| align="center" | 9 | align="center" | 14 (and 12{{efn|name=2023contract12}}) | CDC NSW (Forest Coach Lines and Transdev NSW until May 2023) | 7,607,426 | 7,286,111 | align="center" | {{font color|red| -4.41% }} |
| align="center" | 10 | align="center" | 2 (and 15{{efn|name=2023contract15}}) | Transit Systems (Interline Bus Service and Busabout until Oct 2023) | 5,651,214 | 5,710,589 | align="center" | {{font color|green| +1.04% }} |
| colspan="3" align="center" ! | TOTAL || 212,310,258 || 223,645,507 || align="center" | {{font color|green| +5.07% }} |
{{notelist|refs=
{{efn|name=2019–20|Patronage was lower than previous years due to people staying at home and not taking public transport to school or work during the COVID-19 pandemic}}
{{efn|name=2023contract13|2023 numbers include patronage data from Region 13 before it was merged with Region 3 in August 2023}}
{{efn|name=2023contract5|2023 numbers include patronage data from Region 5 before it was merged with Region 10 in July 2023}}
{{efn|name=2023contract12|2023 numbers include patronage data from Region 12 before it was merged with Region 14 in May 2023}}
{{efn|name=2023contract15|2023 numbers include patronage data from Region 15 before it was merged with Region 2 in October 2023}}
}}