Supplier outlines opportunities of Victorian bus supply issue

While the Victorian bus and coach industry has been in all sorts since the Victorian government announced the recent deferral of bus replacement and upgrade orders, one supplier has decided to try and look at the bright side.

VDI Australia national marketing manager Blake Duerden says this decision forces those in the industry to think about the next steps and think of the delays as an “opportunity”.

• Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter to receive the latest news and classifieds from Australasia’s bus and coach industry
• Don’t miss a second and subscribe to our monthly ABC magazine

“The delay in replacing older diesel buses brings up some key considerations—how do we keep things running smoothly, support industry stability, and stay on course for a cleaner transport future?” Duerden says.

“There’s no easy answer, but there are definitely ways we can turn this challenge into an opportunity.”

For many operators, one of the largest concerns of transitioning fleets was allowing enough time to get charging infrastructure and transition plans in place. These new delays now allow an extra five years for operators to get their ducks in a row.

“This delay might feel frustrating, but it’s also an opportunity—a chance to rethink how we modernise fleets and prepare for what’s next,” Duerden says.

“Instead of seeing it as a roadblock, we can use this time to plan smarter, strengthen collaboration, and take meaningful steps toward a zero-emission future.

“While this deferral brings short-term challenges, it also opens the door for stronger industry coordination to ensure the transition is structured and well-executed when the time comes.”

Duerden urges operators to use this time to move from the planning stages of the transition into execution, ensuring operators aren’t left scrambling when the inevitable rolls around.

This means accelerating the rollout of charging stations and upgrading depots that will suit ZEBs and allow for a smoother transition.

Changes like this have already been happening in metro, rural and regional locations across the country, with early adopters proving that ZEBs can be viable in a variety of environments.

“What once seemed like a leap is now becoming the norm, with momentum growing across the sector,” he says.

At VDI, the company is working closely with industry partners to ensure operators have the infrastructure and support they need to make the transition as seamless as possible.

Another key issue that arose from the governments announcement was the impact on local manufacturing and job security.

The Australian bus manufacturing sector relies on a steady flow of fleet replacements to keep factories running and people employed. Delays like this can create uncertainty, especially for suppliers and businesses that depend on those orders.

“A well-thought-out, phased approach will help stabilise the local manufacturing sector and protect jobs, rather than creating uncertainty with abrupt changes,” he says.

Duerden says extending the service life of diesel buses also raises a big question—how do we keep them running safely and efficiently?

“Many of these vehicles are already well into their operational life, and keeping them roadworthy for another five years will take investment in servicing and upgrades,” he says.

“Extending the service life of older buses means increased maintenance and potential upgrades. Proper planning now will prevent safety and reliability issues down the road.”

While the next few years will be difficult for the industry, the supplier feels confident there is a way to navigate it.

“For operators, this means striking a balance between keeping existing fleets reliable and preparing for the switch to electric. It’s not an easy juggling act, but with proper planning, it’s possible to manage both.”

“The transition to ZEBs in 2030 isn’t just about hitting a deadline—it’s about making sure the shift is sustainable for years to come.

“At VDI, we remain committed to working with operators, manufacturers, and policymakers to navigate this transition together.

“The road ahead is clearer than ever—it’s time to take the next step and ensure the future of zero-emission transport is built on solid ground.”