Victorian public transport users will soon be able to find their way using Google Maps
Passengers will soon be able to get public transport information on Google Maps and other apps, with the release of Victorian timetable information in General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS) format.
Currently, in Victoria, it is possible to get Google Maps information on how to around by car, bike and foot, but cannot tell you how get to your destination using public transport system.
Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan says the release of this data signifies is a big leap forward for Victoria.
“Google maps is awesome, but right now it can’t tell you how to get where you’re going on public transport,” she says.
“As promised, we have released the timetable data so Google can plug public transport timetables into maps and show you the best way to get around.
“The Andrews Labor Government is investing in public transport and making it easier for people to use.”
The release of this data will allow companies like Google to integrate the information into their website and apps and this is likely to happen within the next few months.
While timetable information is already available in Application Programming Interface (API) format, GTFS is the format preferred by Google and most other app developers.
Google has public transport information for other major cities, but because timetable data was not available in its preferred format, it was never able to upload Victorian-specific information.
The release of timetable data in GTFS means it’s available to all app and website developers.
Public Transport Victoria will be hosting an open access event for the developer community in mid-2015.
This will comprise of a series of data innovation events and workshops, which will enable online technology developers to get an understanding of public transport in Victoria.