Councils unite for more regional trains

Published on 21 October 2026

Councils and public transport users in the Greater Ballarat region are united in efforts to obtain more rail services between Maryborough, Ballarat and Melbourne.

There are currently just two trains a day linking Maryborough, Talbot, Clunes and Creswick with Ballarat, and the timetable doesn’t suit people commuting for work and study.

Central Goldfields Shire Council has called for five trains per day on weekdays, and the Public Transport Users Association (Ballarat branch) is seeking trains every two hours.

Candidates and parties contesting the Victorian State Election have been asked for their support.

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Central Goldfields Shire Mayor, Cr Ben Green

“We surveyed residents earlier this year, and they showed strong demand for additional trains on weekdays, especially a return service from Ballarat in the late afternoon. More trains are critical for people to travel for work and study, especially given the poor state of local roads, also for business and medical appointments, tourism and social connections.”

Hepburn Shire Mayor, Cr Tony Clark

“The rising cost of living is impacting everyone, and our communities need better access to essential services and reliable transport connections. We call on the Victorian Government to increase train services through the Hepburn Shire, helping residents access work, education, healthcare and other important services, both now and into the future.”

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves

“Improved rail connections between Maryborough, Creswick, Clunes, and Ballarat would make it easier for people to access jobs, education, healthcare and other essential services, while supporting regional growth and reducing reliance on vehicles. 

We join our neighbouring councils in calling for greater investment in public transport that delivers better connectivity and opportunities for communities across the region." 

Public Transport Users Association (Ballarat branch) spokesperson, Patrick Jarvinen

"West Victorian car dependency coupled with the rising cost of living, deteriorating roads and reliance on services in Ballarat and Melbourne reveals the imperative for a dependable regional public transport network which all Victorians can integrate into daily life. Increased train frequencies to Maryborough, as well as other reinstated rail services and improved coach services are essential to reconnecting western Victoria."