Partnership with EnergyAustralia will enable one of Victoria’s key electric bus operations
ComfortDelGro Australia (CDC) is progressing on its journey to enable greener bus journeys and cleaner air in line with the Victorian Government’s Zero Emission Bus Transition Plan, with work due to begin on the electrification of a key hub in Melbourne’s south-east.
CDC, through its subsidiary CDC Victoria is partnering with EnergyAustralia to electrify its Oakleigh bus depot, marking a major milestone in CDC’s decarbonisation journey which will accelerate the rollout of electric buses across Melbourne’s south east in support of the Victorian Government’s transition to a zero emissions public bus fleet by 2035.
As a recipient of a number of the Victorian Government’s Metropolitan Zero Emission Bus Franchises, CDC Victoria is playing a leading role in helping transform Victoria’s public transport system. The electrification of the Oakleigh depot represents a critical step towards achieving a cleaner, quieter and more sustainable bus network for passengers and local communities.
CDC Victoria CEO Jeff Wilson said:
“This project represents a significant milestone in CDC Victoria’s transition to a zero-emission future and demonstrates our commitment to delivering more sustainable public transport for the communities we serve.
The successful introduction of hybrid and battery electric buses over recent years has shown the benefits these technologies can deliver for passengers, drivers and local communities. Electrifying the Oakleigh depot enables us to scale those benefits across our network while supporting Victoria’s broader decarbonisation ambitions.
As we continue to expand our electric fleet, passengers will experience cleaner, quieter and more comfortable journeys, while local communities benefit from reduced emissions and improved air quality. We are proud to be playing a leading role in shaping the future of sustainable public transport in Victoria.”
The announcement builds on CDC Victoria’s successful participation in Melbourne’s Zero Emission Bus Trial, which saw eight battery electric buses introduced across the south-eastern suburbs in partnership with the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning and industry stakeholders.
Drawing on the operational insights gained through the trial, CDC Victoria has now signed a contract with EnergyAustralia to deliver the next phase of its fleet transition, with works scheduled to commence in November 2026.
Once complete, the Oakleigh depot will have the capability to support more than 77 battery electric buses, with infrastructure designed to accommodate up to 85 vehicles as the fleet continues to grow. The project is expected to create one of Melbourne’s key electric bus operations, providing the foundation for long-term zero-emission operations in the region.
Under the agreement, EnergyAustralia will design and deliver the charging infrastructure required to power the growing electric fleet, serving as engineering, procurement and construction manager for the project. This includes grid upgrades, switchboards, charging power units, vehicle chargers, and associated electrical and civil works.
EnergyAustralia Head of Green Transport Jack Kotlyar said:
“Behind every successful electric bus fleet is the infrastructure that keeps it moving, and we’re proud to partner with CDC Victoria on this important project.
As Australia’s transport sector continues to decarbonise, operators need infrastructure partners capable of delivering reliable, scalable solutions. The Oakleigh depot project will provide the charging capability needed to support fleet growth well into the future, helping accelerate Victoria’s transition to cleaner public transport.”
The electrification of Oakleigh forms part of CDC Victoria’s broader strategy to transition its operations towards zero-emission transport and supports the objectives of the Victorian Government’s transition to a zero emissions public bus fleet by 2035.
Through continued investment in fleet electrification and supporting infrastructure, CDC Victoria is committed to a more sustainable future for public transport in line with the State’s commitment to net zero emissions.
