VACC Supports the Government's trial to allow Motorcycle and Scooter riders to share Melbourne's Bus Lanes

MELBOURNE – Nov 21, 2011: A six month trial started today, permits motorcycle and scooter riders to ride in the southbound bus lane on Hoddle Street during peak morning traffic.

Information gathered from the trial, along with community feedback, will be used by the Victorian Government and VicRoads to make an evidence-based decision on whether to allow motorcycles and scooters to use bus lanes.

VACC supports the initiative and promoted the start of the six month trial by hosting a launch event this morning.

“VACC represents the retail, service and repair sector of the motorcycle and scooter sectors, as well as the automotive industry. We have previously called for motorcycle and scooter riders to be entitled to share Melbourne’s bus lanes and we welcome the initiative which was recently announced by Minister Mulder,” VACC Executive Director, David Purchase, said.

“We look forward to working closely with the Victorian Government and VicRoads in monitoring the trial, and we suggest that in six months’ time, we discuss the findings together. If, as I suspect they will be, the findings are positive, we will advocate for motorcycles and scooters to be permitted to use the Hoddle Street southbound bus lane on a permanent basis. We will then also call for more bus lane locations to be made available to powered two wheelers.

“This initiative provides benefits to all road users. Motorists benefit by having fewer vehicles on the roads during the morning rush hour, thus reducing the time it takes for the daily commute. Motorcycle and scooter riders benefit by being separated from cars and trucks, making the journey safer and quicker.

“On the evidence so far, this trial will relieve pressure on one of our busiest roads, significantly reducing congestion and helping to reduce the State’s road toll,” Mr Purchase said.