The bus network timetable is being updated yet again as schools reopen for 2026. Photo: Ian Bushnell.
New dedicated bus services and adjusted services for 51 schools are just some of the changes outlined in the Term 1 bus network timetable that has been designed around construction on Commonwealth Avenue Bridge.
There is a dedicated north-bound bus and emergency services lane across the bridge but a Transport Canberra statement outlined these further changes were “essential” to keep Canberra moving during the year-long closure of the bridge’s three north-bound lanes.
“Changes apply to both weekday and weekend bus services with no changes to light rail frequencies,” it said.
“Transport Canberra reminds the community that the summer holiday bus timetable currently in place will continue up until the last service on Sunday, 1 February. Dedicated school routes and school day only services or diversions will resume Monday, 2 February.
“Parents and carers are asked to consider making alternative transport arrangements for their child if they begin at a new school on Friday, 30 January.”
The main features of the updated bus network timetable includes:
- Four new dedicated school services (1016, 1026, 2012 and 2077)
- Timing adjustments for 51 schools
- Modification to Rapid routes 2 and 3, with two new local services in Belconnen (route 12 and route 13) to replace part of the Rapid routes west of the Westfield Belconnen interchange
- Rapid routes 5 and 6 extended to the Westfield Belconnen interchange
- 15-minute standard frequency for all weekday Rapid bus services until 7:30 pm.
New network maps and updated information panels will be rolled out at interchanges and applicable major bus stops ahead of the new timetable beginning, as well as awareness signs directing people to the Transport Canberra website by scanning a QR code.
“Journey planning through the MyWay+ mobile app and journey planner on the Transport Canberra website will utilise the updated network and timetables for trips from Monday, 2 February,” the Transport Canberra statement said.
“The current summer holiday bus timetable will continue to be in place for journey planning in both the MyWay+ app and Transport Canberra website for trips up until the last service on Sunday, 1 February.”
Bus timetables and school information packs can be viewed and downloaded from the Transport Canberra website to help everyone plan ahead.
“Students, parents and carers are asked to view and download the information packs and timetables relevant to their child’s school ahead of time to prepare for the new school year,” the statement advised.
“Canberrans are encouraged to plan ahead by familiarising themselves with the new timetables before their trip.”
A further update to the bus network is expected to be made in the second half of the year.
New timetables can be found for specific bus services online. An updated network map is also available here. People can call Transport Canberra directly for more information on 13 17 10.
