Victoria Labor pledges $400 million for frequent bus services in Melbourne's west

Labor has pledged to increase bus service frequency in Melbourne's west to every 10 minutes from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m., seven days a week, if returned to office, according to areanews.com.au, batemansbaypost.com.au, and easternriverinachronicle.com.au.

The commitment involves upgrading two thirds of existing routes in the region to 'turn-up-and-go' services, aiming to improve travel for residents to work, school, and home, the outlets reported.

Deputy Premier Gabrielle Williams described the $400 million investment as a significant effort to provide the best possible service delivery in one of Victoria's and the nation's fastest growing regions.

Community group Better Buses for the West welcomed the announcement, highlighting the relief it would offer to those struggling with unreliable and infrequent bus services, including families and elderly residents, the sources said.

Meanwhile, opposition leader Jess Wilson proposed stricter measures against illicit tobacco sales and landlord lease terminations if the Liberals win government, aiming to address organized crime in Melbourne's tobacco market, according to the reports.