Patronage of Swan Transit bus run shows acceptance of private contractors

24/6/97

Transport Minister Eric Charlton said today a 30 per cent jump in patronage on Swan Transit's Murdoch-to-Wellington Street bus run showed how the public was embracing the concept of private contractors.

"This is tangible proof that the public is putting its faith in reliable and innovative private operators who are customer-focussed," Mr Charlton said.

"Swan Transit, which was brought in by Transperth less than a year ago, revised timetables and increased the number of services on the Murdoch route in order to meet public needs. And they have done it with the same number of vehicles.

"By increasing the number of peak time services and revising the timetables in October last year Swan Transit achieved a dramatic 30 per cent increase in patronage."

The Minister said Swan Transit recorded 17,507 boardings during a two-week test period in October last year, while a two-week test in March this year revealed a jump to 22,528 patrons.

He said the surge in patronage on the company's Murdoch to Wellington Street run was an indicator that people were prepared to use public transport if it gave quality of service.

"These are impressive results and show the value that can be gained from contracting out to private operators prepared to give customer service," Mr Charlton said.

Media contact: Doug Cunningham 321 7333