Western Australia has marked a milestone in its public transport history, with the last diesel bus to be manufactured in the state officially leaving the Volgren manufacturing facility in Malaga.
From this point forward, all new public transport buses produced in WA will be electric, in line with a major election commitment from the Cook Labor Government, as revealed in a news release.
The transition forms a cornerstone of the State Government’s “Made in WA” plan, which aims to diversify the local economy, support sustainable initiatives, and create local employment opportunities.
More than 100 local jobs, including positions for 15 apprentices, are supported at the Malaga facility, which will now focus exclusively on building battery electric buses.
Premier Roger Cook said the move reflects his government’s commitment to decarbonisation, innovation, and economic strength.
“I want to ensure Western Australia’s economy remains the strongest nation,” Cook said.”That means diversifying by investing in decarbonisation and supporting local manufacturing so that we can build more things in WA.”
Each new electric bus can travel up to 300 kilometres on a single charge and is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 40 tonnes annually.
The switch to electric follows a $250 million investment jointly funded by the State and Federal Governments to deliver 130 electric buses, associated charging infrastructure, and depot upgrades.
So far, 18 electric buses manufactured at Volgren’s Malaga site are already operating on Perth’s CAT routes.
Additionally, 18 EV charging dispensers have been completed at Elizabeth Quay Bus Station, while work continues on electric infrastructure at the Malaga, Karrinyup, Claisebrook, and Bayswater depots.
The first electric bus is expected to run from Malaga’s upgraded facility in mid-2025.
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the shift to electric buses is not only a step forward in sustainability but also a fulfillment of a key government promise.
To support the full transition to electric bus manufacturing, the State Government will commit an additional $61.9 million in the upcoming State Budget.
While the upfront cost of electric buses is higher than diesel models, the government maintains that long-term operational and maintenance costs are lower.
“These new electric buses will be manufactured and built locally in Western Australia, supporting long-term local jobs and the delivery of our Made in WA plan.”
Premier Cook said the transition represents more than just a transport upgrade. “It won’t just create more than 100 jobs in Perth’s north-eastern suburbs – it will lower our emissions and reduce operating costs across Perth’s public transport network too,” he said.
“This milestone is key to my government’s plan to invest in public transport, support local manufacturing, create jobs, and ensure WA’s economy and jobs market is ready for the future.”
