Victorian Political Parties Pledge Transport Upgrades and Tobacco Crackdown

The Victorian Labor government has pledged a $400 million funding package to upgrade public bus services across Melbourne's western suburbs, promising high-frequency timetables for residents if returned to office.

Under the proposed transport plan, two-thirds of existing bus routes in the region would be elevated to "turn-up-and-go" services. Officials stated that buses would operate every ten minutes between six in the morning and 10 at night, seven days a week.

Deputy Premier Gabrielle Williams described the investment as a significant commitment to service delivery in one of the nation's fastest-growing regions. Ms Williams told reporters that the high-frequency timetable would change daily commutes for travelers relying on key routes and connections.

The community advocacy organization Better Buses for the West welcomed the announcement. Campaign spokesperson Elyse Cunningham stated that the initiative would provide relief to individuals struggling with unreliable and infrequent transit options when traveling to work, schools, and healthcare appointments.

Meanwhile, on the separate campaign trail, opposition leader Jess Wilson announced a proposed legislative crackdown aimed at addressing illegal tobacco trade in Melbourne. Ms Wilson stated that the Liberal Party would enforce longer closures for retailers caught selling illicit tobacco products.

The opposition proposal would also permit landlords to terminate commercial leases without compensation if tenants are found involved in the illicit trade. Speaking to reporters outside a bakery near a firebombed tobacco shop, Ms Wilson asserted that the measures are designed to combat organized crime conflicts over the local market.