Premier Jacinta Allan has accused Opposition Leader Jess Wilson of planning cuts to public transport in Melbourne’s west, as a political clash intensifies ahead of the next state election.
Labor government claims the Liberals would reduce train services to key growth areas, including Melton, Tarneit, Caroline Springs and Wyndham Vale.
The criticism follows comments from Shadow Public Transport Minister Matthew Guy about reallocating VLocity train sets, which the government argues would leave services in the western corridor “thin”.
Framing the debate as a clear policy divide, Allan said Labor was investing in expanded services, including longer nine-car trains on the Wyndham Vale line, additional services on the Werribee line and a major upgrade of the Melton line.
The government has also highlighted cost-of-living measures, with public transport fares set to be capped at $5.70 per day from June.
Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams said the opposition’s approach would result in fewer services for fast-growing suburbs, warning it would impact commuters who rely heavily on public transport.
“If this is what they’re prepared to cut on day one, imagine what comes next for the west.”
“While the Liberals are promising cuts to trains for Melbourne’s west, Labor is investing in more services, more capacity and cheaper fares,” Minister Gabrielle added
However, the opposition has strongly rejected the claims, shifting focus to safety concerns across Victoria’s rail network.
Wilson and Guy have earlier argued that the Allan Government is instead planning to remove Protective Services Officers (PSOs) from 119 train stations, citing rising crime rates and a reported increase in serious offences on the network.
The Liberals say they would reverse that decision if elected, pledging to recruit 200 additional PSOs and ensure coverage at every metropolitan train station each night.
Shadow Police Minister Brad Battin said reducing PSO presence would worsen safety concerns for commuters.
Wilson said restoring PSOs would give passengers confidence and improve security, while also criticising the government over broader law-and-order issues.
Support our Journalism
No-nonsense journalism. No paywalls. Whether you’re in Australia, the UK, Canada, the USA, or India, you can support The Australia Today by taking a paid subscription via Patreon or donating via PayPal — and help keep honest, fearless journalism alive.
