Zero Emission Buses
Program
Overview
The NSW Government is transitioning the state’s public transport diesel and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses to zero emission technology.
This transition is being delivered in stages through the NSW’s Zero Emission Bus Transition Plan developed in close consultation with industry stakeholders. The staged roll out enables alignment of infrastructure, workforce capability and industry investment as the network evolves.
Transition timeline
2035: Greater Sydney: 3,000+ buses
2040: Outer Metropolitan 1,000+ buses
2047: Rural and Regional: 4,000+ buses
Stage 1 ZEB Program depot conversion sites
Zero Emission Buses Program Stage 1
The NSW Government is investing approximately $3 billion in stage 1 of the program across Greater Sydney which commenced in 2023 and is expected to be completed by 2028. The program includes:
conversion of 11 existing diesel and gas bus depots to electric
a new purpose-built electric bus depot at Macquarie Park
procurement of more than 1,200 electric buses.
The stage 1 program includes $25 million over three years for regional trials of emerging technologies, including hydrogen fuel cell buses. These trials will help identify solutions suited to regional conditions and longer distance travel.
Pioneering new technologies
The transition to electric buses introduces new technology integration systems and unlocks greater volumes of operational data to improve service delivery, asset performance and customer information.
The program is advancing industry capability through the rollout of smart charging infrastructure and integrated energy management systems. These technologies support more efficient operations through real-time monitoring, data-driven decision making and improved asset utilisation.
Some options include capacity to support future upgrades, such as battery storage, helping ensure the network can adapt to evolving technology and operational needs over time.
Visit the program website for more information.
Stage 1 depot conversion overview*
*Depot timings are an estimate and may vary.
Macquarie Park Bus Depot
Transport for NSW is building a new battery electric bus depot at 1A-1B Talavera Road, Macquarie Park, a first for NSW. The depot is expected to be operational by 2028.
Key features of the new depot include:
around 150 bus bays for a mix of standard and articulated battery electric buses
charging infrastructure, maintenance facilities and a wash bay
a multi-storey staff and security building
staff parking (around 150 spaces) with access via Talavera Road
new lighting, fencing, security and fire safety systems.
Visit the Macquarie Park Bus Depot page for more information and updates.
Zero Emission Buses Program Stage 2
Transport for NSW is continuing to plan for the second stage of the Zero Emission Bus Program and the further transition of buses in Greater Sydney.
Transport is working with the bus industry to determine which existing depots will be included in the next stage of the transition.
The business case is expected to be completed in 2026. We will continue to keep the community and industry updated as planning progresses.
Power the Future: Careers in Zero Emission Buses
Australia’s transport system is changing and you could be part of it.
Across NSW, buses and depot infrastructure are transitioning to zero emission technology, creating exciting new career opportunities in engineering, technology, manufacturing, sustainability, and data.
This isn’t just about transport, it’s about innovation, reducing emissions, and building smarter cities.
Whether you enjoy designing systems, solving problems, working with technology, or improving the environment, there’s a pathway for you.
Visit the careers website for more information.
Enquiries for the project team
If you have feedback or suggestions for this Industry Portal, visit our survey page and let us know.
For further program enquiries you can email zeroemissionbuses@transport.nsw.gov.au
For more information on the program, please visit our webpage.