CDC Darwin Pty Ltd (CDC), a wholly owned subsidiary of ComfortDelGro Corporation Australia, has begun operating 100 per cent of Darwin’s public buses with the commencement of a new Northern Territory Government contract.
Announced by the Northern Territory Government as the chosen operator in June following a competitive tender, the long-term Darwin bus operator previously known as Buslink NT has launched its expanded services in Darwin with new CDC Northern Territory branding.
CDC has welcomed 50 transitioning employees to scale up its team to better serve the Darwin community and fulfil its public transport needs for access to education, health, employment, and events.
During the contract term, CDC will be demonstrating its commitment to the environment with the introduction of nine Volvo hybrid buses. The introduction of the hybrid buses will mark an important innovation for the Northern Territory’s public transport network delivering reductions in emissions, noise, and fuel consumption, as well as improving the passenger experience.
The company will continue working closely with the community it serves, continuing its strong ties with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through its community engagement programs.
CDC Regional Australia Division CEO Tony Hopkins said he was pleased with the company’s smooth transition to the new contract arrangements.
“CDC’s Australia-wide experience, combined with access to international transport management knowledge and insights through the ComfortDelGro global group, means that we’re able to manage change effectively and deliver quality services from day one in the contract,” Mr Hopkins said.
“From today, all Darwin Buses have started displaying our new CDC Northern Territory logos. Our drivers are also looking sharp in their new CDC uniforms.
“We’re looking forward to sharing our Australian and global expertise in operating reduced emissions buses which we gained in Melbourne through the operation of Australia’s largest hybrid bus fleet.
“The people of Darwin will benefit from the improved ride characteristics and the cleaner air of this technology, with nine new Volvo hybrid buses to be rolled out on urban routes during the contract period.
“We’re also proud to continue expanding our delivery of special needs transport services for students with a disability, provide good working conditions and long-term opportunities and continuing to support a range of important social causes relevant to the Northern Territory.
“We’re very pleased that the Northern Territory Government decided to continue working with CDC, a long-term operator which has invested significantly in its Northern Territory operations to consistently deliver a safe and reliable service,” he said.
CDC is currently employing and training extra drivers, mechanics and other roles across Darwin, Humpty Doo, Alice Springs and Jabiru as part of expansions and wide-spread industry shortages.
For more information, please visit cdcnorthernterritory.com.au.
