Media Release – Kerry Vincent, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, 19 February 2026
Greater Hobart Transport Solution a Step Closer
The Tasmanian Government is releasing the Greater Hobart Rapid Bus Network Strategic Business Case.
The Report makes it clear a bus rapid transit network will best meet Greater Hobart’s economic, social, environmental and urban development objectives.
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Kerry Vincent said this was one piece of the puzzle.
“The Report makes it clear Greater Hobart needs a transport solution – and rapid buses provide a flexible and scalable option,” Minister Vincent said.
“Rapid buses meet Greater Hobart’s needs and are capable of serving all three major transport corridors.
“This proposal is also the most cost-effective and fastest option to deliver – meaning Tasmanians will get the benefits sooner rather than later.
“When working with other public transport options, like ferries and other buses, we can get our biggest city moving a whole lot smoother.
“For thousands of daily commuters, it will mean quicker, more predictable and far more convenient transport in and out of the city every day.
“It means education is a bit closer, work is a bit easier and accessing services can be a breeze.
“We look forward to progressing the more detailed business case for the northern corridor – our first priority.”
Access the Strategic Business Case here.
Media Release – Kristie Johnston, Independent Member for Clark, 19 February 2026
Rail Not Rapid Bus, Reax to Rapid Bus Network Case
Rail on the rail corridor is the public transport answer to enabling Hobart’s northern suburbs to thrive, with previous studies showing it brings four to five times more social and economic benefit than a rapid bus service (Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor report, 2020, tables 18 and 20, pages 40 and 42).
Transport Minister Vincent thinks one size fits all when it comes to Hobart’s three public transport corridors – but a rapid bus service does not fit the North.
He’s ignoring the unique opportunities in each corridor – North, South and East.
Mr Vincent today said the northern corridor is his top priority.
His report today showed the greatest potential for urban renewal is in the North.
But he’s forgot, or is ignoring, his government’s 2020 report Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor which says rail brings the most community benefit and on page 44 clearly states: “The bus rapid had the smallest impact on city shaping objectives”.
How does he explain that conflict?
My community in Hobart’s northern suburbs demand better than a lazy one size fits all approach.
The “jury’s in” on rail for the North, and the government should accept the verdict – the advice – and for heaven’s sake just get on with it already.
Media Release – Bec Thomas MLC, Independent Member for Elwick, 20 February 2026
Thomas Welcomes Release of Business Case But Says It’s Time to Deliver on Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor
Independent Member for Elwick, Bec Thomas MLC, has welcomed the long-awaited release of the State Government’s strategic business case for Hobart’s rapid bus network, saying it represents an important step forward, but warning that Tasmanians are tired of studies and now expect delivery.
“The northern suburbs transit corridor has been subjected to endless studies and reports about how to move people from the suburbs to the city and back.
“It’s now time to get on with it and deliver a solution. This business case will be key to securing Federal funding, and I urge all parties to do what is necessary to advance it.
“With a stadium due to be constructed at Macquarie Point, moving people in and out of the city will be even more critical than it already is. We have known for years that a better solution is desperately needed, and so much time has been spent looking at all manner of options.
“Priority must be given to the northern transit corridor. While a rapid bus network would ultimately need to service other areas, the northern is the critical component that must come first.
“Following my calls for the State Government to release this business case, I am pleased Tasmanians now have the opportunity to see what it consists of and gain an understanding of the factors being considered as part of Greater Hobart’s transport solution,” Ms Thomas said.
Media Release – Jen Butler MP, Shadow Minister for Transport, 20 February 2026
Bus Strategy a Rapid Mess
The Liberals’ rapid bus strategy for Hobart is a rapid mess – short on detail, long on spin, and completely lacking credibility.
The government’s own report raises more questions than it answers, with key financial details hidden and no clear pathway to delivery.
There is no credible business case for a rapid bus service.
If the Liberals can’t produce a transparent and properly costed plan, how would the Federal Government ever be able to fund it?
A one-size-fits-all approach ignores the very different needs of Hobart’s transport corridors, particularly in the northern suburbs. The Minister needs to seriously consider passenger rail on the current gauge for the Northern corridor.
This investment is about the future – 50 years from now – not just the next election cycle.
I am also calling on the Premier to rule out a Hobart CBD parking levy to pay for a plan that doesn’t stack up. He must rule out a Hobart CBD parking tax.
Tasmanians should not be hit with higher costs to fund a flawed transport plan.
Hobart deserves a transport solution that is properly costed, transparent and built for the long term.
