In a bid to boost public transport in the Hunter, an additional 100 bus services will hit the road later this month.
Part of the NSW Government’s $150 million Uplift Program, the investment should provide more frequent, reliable and accessible options for thousands of residents.
The extra services are expected to deliver further night-time and weekend travel choices for communities within Cessnock, Kurri Kurri, Singleton, Maitland, North Rothbury, Huntlee, Branxton, Greta, Lochinvar and Windella.
As well, the improved timetable will strengthen connections with other public transport services across greater Newcastle, making journeys smoother and reducing reliance on private vehicles.
“This is a big win for locals, especially in growing areas like Cessnock, North Rothbury and Heddon Greta,” Cessnock MP Clayton Barr said.
“I know how important public transport services are for our community.
“So, this will make it easier for people to get where they need to go.
“Additional services – particularly in the evenings and on weekends—mean better connectivity, more convenience and robust links to jobs, education and shopping across the region”
From Sunday 28 June, Route 164 between Cessnock and Maitland via Kurri Kurri is set to welcome an extra 32 trips each week.
Services will run hourly, seven days a week, providing improved access for the rapidly growing suburbs of Gillieston Heights, Cliftleigh and Heddon Greta.
Then, from Sunday 19 July, Route 179 between North Rothbury and the Green Hills Shopping Centre, via Maitland, is slated to benefit from an additional 70 journeys each week.
For the first time, the route will operate on Sundays and public holidays, providing greater flexibility and accessibility for residents across the burgeoning Huntlee and North Rothbury areas.
“In regional communities across the Hunter, the distance between where people, live, work and access services can be significant,” Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said.
“Rolling out over 100 extra routes recognises this reality, as well as the incredible growth we’re seeing throughout the region.
“Importantly, it will make everyday life that little bit easier for residents.”
For a summary of changes coming into effect from Sunday 28 June, visit: https://transportnsw.info/news/2026/hunter-bus-changes-from-sunday-28-june
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