Sydney's Secret $5.8 Billion Plan for 35 Rapid Bus Corridors Unveiled

A confidential forecast prepared by Transport for NSW and consultants places the capital cost of 35 rapid bus corridors across Sydney at roughly $5.8 billion, with an ongoing $760 million yearly expense to operate them. The modelling, completed three years ago and updated in an 18-month network review, has not yet translated into any announced projects by the Minns administration. John Lee, chair of a government-appointed bus industry taskforce, said the state was urged in early 2024 to deliver four rapid routes - along Parramatta, Victoria and Bondi roads and to Western Sydney Airport - within four years, but none have materialised.

The analysis highlights the most expensive proposals in the outer west, including a $656 million link from Western Sydney Airport to Mount Druitt and a $490 million connection to Blacktown. By contrast, the only rapid bus service introduced in the past decade is the $514 million northern beaches B-Line, which the review cites as delivering faster trips and shifting commuters from cars. Critics argue the government’s bus plans remain in “top-drawer” documents, while Transport Minister John Graham promises continued investment and a forthcoming medium-term bus plan.